Posted by Baofeng UK on 4th Nov 2025
UK Guide to Hand Held Radios: From Licence-Free to Amateur
Whether you're coordinating an event, keeping in touch with family on a camping trip, or exploring the airwaves as a hobby, a hand held radio is an invaluable tool. But navigating the world of two-way radios in the UK can be confusing. What’s legal? What requires a licence? And which type is right for you?
This guide will demystify the options, comparing the most common types of hand held radio available in the UK, so you can make an informed choice and get on the air with confidence.
PMR446: Truly Licence-Free Basics
If you need a simple, out-of-the-box communication solution, PMR446 is your answer.
What is PMR446?
PMR446 (Private Mobile Radio 446 MHz) is a European standard for licence-free, short-range communication. These are the "walkie-talkies" you can buy in high-street shops and use immediately.
Key Feature and Legal Limitations:
- Licence-Free Operation: No paperwork, no fees. Just buy them and start talking.
- Power Limit: Legally restricted to a maximum of 0.5 watts of transmission power.
- Fixed Antenna: To comply with UK law, PMR446 radios must have a non-removable, integral antenna. This is a crucial legal point.
- Channels: They operate on 16 pre-set channels in the 446 MHz frequency band.
Who Should Use PMR446 Radios?
PMR446 radios are perfect for families, hikers, skiers, cyclists, and small businesses needing simple on-site communication (e.g., in a warehouse or on a construction site). Their range is typically a few hundred metres in a city or up to a couple of miles with a clear line of sight.
💡 Best for Families, Small Businesses, and Outdoor Activities
✅ Completely licence-free for immediate use in the UK and EU.
✅ Ready to use straight out of the box, no programming needed.
✅ 16 pre-programmed PMR446 channels for easy communication.
✅ VOX function for simple, hands-free operation.
✅ Compact, lightweight, and durable design is easy to carry and use.
✅ Long-lasting Li-ion battery with a desktop charger included.
✅ Built-in high-illumination LED torch for added convenience.
🔹 Why It's Great: This radio is the perfect low-cost, no-fuss solution for anyone needing simple and reliable communication without the complexity or cost of a licence.
The Classic CB Handheld: A Step Up in Power
CB (Citizens' Band) radio has been a hobbyist favourite for decades and is still a practical choice for certain users. While often associated with vehicles, capable handheld versions are also available.
Key Features of Handheld CB Radio
- Licence-Exempt: Like PMR446, CB radio is now licence-exempt for use in the UK.
- Power Limit: Handheld CB radios are limited to 4 watts of power.
- More Channel Flexibility: They operate on 40 UK/EU channels and offer different modes (AM/FM/SSB), giving users more control than PMR446.
Who is CB Radio For?
CB handhelds are popular with 4x4 off-roading groups, agricultural workers, and trucking convoys where a bit more power than PMR446 is needed. They are a great middle-ground for those who don't want to get a licence but need more punch than a basic walkie-talkie.
Amateur Handhelds: Unlocking Maximum Capability & Community
For the ultimate in power, flexibility, and community, nothing beats Amateur Radio (or "Ham Radio"). This is where a hand held radio becomes a gateway to a global hobby.
What is Amateur (Ham) Radio?
Amateur Radio is a service for enthusiasts to experiment with radio technology and communicate with people worldwide. To use these radios, you must have an Amateur Radio licence issued by Ofcom.
The Power and Flexibility of an Amateur Licence:
- The Importance of Licensing: You must pass an exam to get your licence. The entry-level "Foundation" licence is very accessible and allows you to transmit.
- Increased Power and Customisation: A typical amateur handheld (often called an "HT" or Handheld Transceiver) transmits at 5-8 watts, significantly more than PMR446.
- Removable Antennas: Licensed users can swap antennas to improve performance.
- Vast Frequencies: You gain access to huge portions of the radio spectrum, not just a few channels.
- Repeaters: You can transmit through repeaters—powerful, high-altitude stations that can relay your signal over hundreds of miles.
- Advanced Features: Connect to digital networks, link to the internet, and even talk to astronauts on the International Space Station!
Is Amateur Radio Right for You?
Anyone with an interest in technology, electronics, emergency preparedness, or community. Versatile and affordable radios like the Baofeng UV-5R Mini / UV-5RH are exceptionally popular in the amateur community, offering incredible features for licensed operators.
💡 Best for Amateurs Needing Maximum Portability
✅ Ultra-Compact and Lightweight Design for easy everyday carry (EDC) and discreet use.
✅ 5W High/Low Switchable Power to balance transmission range with battery life.
✅ Dual Band Display & Dual Standby to monitor two different frequencies simultaneously.
✅ 128 Programmable Memory Channels to store all your favourite repeaters and simplex frequencies.
✅ Built-in VOX Function for convenient hands-free communication.
✅ Integrated High-Lumen LED Flashlight and FM radio for extra utility.
✅ Fully PC Programmable for complete customization of channels and settings.
🔹 Why It's Great: It delivers the legendary flexibility and power of the UV-5R in an ultra-compact body, making it the perfect choice when space and weight are critical.
💡 Best for Advanced Amateurs & Outdoor Professionals
✅ 10W High Power Output for maximum transmission range.
✅ GPS Positioning Function to share your location and request coordinates from other users.
✅ Air Band & Multi-Band Reception to listen to a wide range of frequencies, including aviation channels.
✅ One-Key Wireless Frequency Copy to quickly clone settings to other UV-5RH radios in the field.
✅ 999 Memory Channels to store all your favourite frequencies and repeaters.
✅ Large 2500mAh Battery with Type-C Charging for extended field use and modern convenience.
✅ IP54 Weather-Resistant & Durable Body built to withstand dust and water splashes.
🔹 Why It's Great: This model packs professional-grade features like high power and GPS tracking into a rugged handheld, making it the ultimate tool for serious operators who demand performance and reliability.
On-Air Best Practices: Safety, Etiquette, and Emergencies
No matter which radio you choose, good practice is essential.
On-Air Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules:
Always listen before you transmit to avoid talking over someone else. Keep your messages clear and concise. Never use offensive language.
General Safety and Preparedness:
Never rely on a hand held radio as your sole means of emergency communication. Batteries can die and range can be unpredictable. Always have a backup plan.
Using Your Radio in a Genuine Emergency:
In a genuine life-or-death situation, the rules can be bent. Ofcom states a licensed amateur may use any means necessary to pass a distress message. For PMR446 users, channel 8 (with a CTCSS tone of 8) is often informally monitored as a calling and emergency channel. For hams, organisations like RAYNET provide a formal network of volunteers for emergency communications support.
How to Pick Your Perfect Hand Held Radio
When choosing your radio, consider these three factors:
Understanding Radio Range: It's All About Line of Sight
The number one rule is that range is determined by line of sight. More power helps, but clearing an obstacle is more important. A 0.5-watt PMR446 radio on a hilltop will outperform a 5-watt amateur radio in a dense city centre.
Durability and Build Quality (IP Ratings Explained)
Look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating. An IP54 rating protects against dust and splashes, while IP67 means it's fully dust-tight and can be submerged in water. Consider your environment—do you need a rugged radio for outdoor adventures or a simpler one for light use?
Battery Life and Charging Options
Check the battery's capacity, measured in mAh (milliamp-hours). A higher number means longer life. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are standard now and offer excellent performance. For long trips, consider a model with USB charging or a spare battery pack.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a bigger antenna on my PMR446 radio?
No. To be legal for licence-free use in the UK and EU, PMR446 radios must have a fixed, non-removable antenna. This ensures the device complies with the strict 0.5-watt power and type-approval regulations. Modifying the antenna is illegal and turns the device into an unlicensed transmitter.
Do I need a licence for a Baofeng radio in the UK?
It depends entirely on how you use it. To use a Baofeng radio (like the UV-5R) to transmit legally in the UK, you must hold a valid Amateur Radio licence and only operate on the allocated amateur frequency bands. Using its high-power capability or removable antenna on PMR446 or other licence-free frequencies is not legal.
What's the real-world range of a hand held radio?
This varies hugely. In a city, expect less than a mile. In open countryside, you might get 2-3 miles. From one hilltop to another with a perfect line of sight, the range could be dozens of miles. Remember: line of sight is king.
At Baofeng Radio UK, we're passionate about helping people get started with radio. We believe that with the right information, anyone can find the perfect device. If you have any more questions, our team is always here to help.
If you're ready to dive in, we invite you to explore our recommended amateur starter kits and our best-selling licence-free radios. We look forward to welcoming you to the airwaves.
