Review on Ultimate Ham Radio Handheld Starter Kit Mirkit Baofeng Radio UV-5R MK4, 8 Watt Max Power with 3800 mAh - Handheld Mic, Programming Cable, Software and Extra Pack Included by Larry Blanco

I am only writing this as a listener while working towards getting my radio license. This rating is based solely on non-carrying use. This UV-5R kit was bought in a lightning deal for around $50. Even at a regular price of around $70, this seems like a good deal. When it arrived it was a bundle of individually shrink-wrapped boxes with a sticker saying it was sold as a set. I'm going to take this moment to say that we need to limit (or eliminate) plastic packaging as much as possible because plastic packaging ends up in the landfill. The kit contains several components, including a charger, a large main battery, and a smaller backup battery. a battery, an external microphone, a programming cable and another for connecting to external speakers. There are also required guides. The UV-5R is extremely popular and has many other reviews. The first impression is pretty good. The radio makes a solid and neatly processed impression. The case is level, there are no gaps around the connectors, the switches don't wobble, etc. However, it's plastic and probably won't drop too much compared to other industrial devices I've owned. In general, there are no complaints about the build quality. Operating the device is also quite simple. I googled popular channels (NOAA, EMT, etc.) and was able to set them up easily. Programming them into the device was pretty easy too *after I found a YouTube video explaining the process*. I had some trouble following the instructions (I'm old and slow) but the video helped me get through it. Now for programming: I downloaded the CHIRP software from a CentOS Linux laptop. With the USB programming cable connected and specifying the correct USB port, I was able to see the device. After reading and saving the configuration I was able to program it with a number of other useful channels. This was probably the most difficult (and ultimately easiest) way to program the device. More difficult because of the search for software, but easier because after installing it and making some adjustments to the settings, it was much faster than manual programming. Other thoughts: Battery life is very good so far, even when using a smaller battery. He listened for over a day and still seemed fully charged. The audio was very clear for the NOAA and Weather Service channels.