Ham radio pulled me in during a two-week power outage a few years ago, and I have not put down a handheld since. If you are searching for the best ham radios for beginners, you are in the right place. Amateur radio lets you talk across town, across the country, and even to the International Space Station using a Technician-class license and a small handheld.
The hardest part of getting started is choosing your first radio. There are dozens of models on Amazon, and the jargon (VHF, UHF, DMR, CTCSS) feels like a foreign language. I have spent the last 90 days testing eight of the most popular beginner handhelds side by side so you do not have to guess.
Below you will find my shortlist of the best ham radios for beginners in 2026, from sub-$25 starter units to premium DMR digital rigs. I have also included a buying guide, a quick-start on the Technician license, and a FAQ that answers the 333 rule question that so many beginners search for. Let us get you on the air.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Beginner Ham Radios at a Glance September
If you only have 30 seconds, these are the three radios I recommend for new operators. Every model listed below is dual-band, works on VHF and UHF, and is CHIRP compatible for easy programming.
All 8 Best Ham Radios for Beginners Compared 2026
Before I dive into individual reviews, here is the full table. I have included every radio on my shortlist with the specs that actually matter for a new Technician-class operator.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Baofeng AR-5RM 10W Handheld |
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 Baofeng UV-5R+ Plus Dual Band |
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| Baofeng BF-F8HP 8W Dual Band |
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| Radioddity GA-510 10W Tri-Power |
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 TIDRADIO TD-H3 8-Band |
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 Baofeng DM-32UV 10W DMR |
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 Baofeng BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri-Band |
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 Radioddity GD-168 DMR Dual Band |
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Why Ham Radio Matters for Beginners in 2026
Cell towers go down. Internet goes out. Ham radio keeps working when nothing else does. That single reason is why thousands of new operators get licensed every year, and it is why the FCC Amateur Radio Service exists in the first place.
Beyond emergencies, ham radio is a genuine hobby. You can chase distant stations (a pursuit called DXing), activate parks for POTA (Parks on the Air), help with storm spotting through Skywarn, or just chat with friendly operators on your local repeater. The Technician license unlocks VHF and UHF bands that let you talk through repeaters mounted on tall buildings and towers, often reaching 30+ miles from a 5W handheld.
Studying for the license is easier than most people think. The Technician exam is 35 multiple-choice questions drawn from a public question pool. I passed mine after about two weeks of casual study using the free hamstudy.org practice tests. The whole thing costs under $20 to take, and your license is good for 10 years.
1. Baofeng AR-5RM 10W Long Range Ham Radio
Ham Radio Baofeng Radio 5RM 10W Long Range Handheld AR-5RM Two Way Radio UV-5R NOAA Weather Receiver Rechargeable Walkie Talkies Longe Range DTMF Copy Frequency 999CH with Type C Charging(1 Pack)
10W power
Type-C charging
999 channels
5 mile range
Pros
- Real 10W output on high setting
- Modern USB-C charging port
- 999 channels with 50 CTCSS plus 210 DCS
- Frequency copy without a computer
- Large readable display
Cons
- Not water resistant at all
- No manufacturer warranty
- Antenna is acceptable but not stellar
The Baofeng AR-5RM is the first radio I handed to a friend who had never touched a ham radio before. Within ten minutes, we had him hitting a local repeater 12 miles away. That ease of use is the whole point of this handheld, and it is why it earned a spot on my best ham radios for beginners list.
Out of the box, the AR-5RM puts out a real 10 watts on high, drops to 5W on medium, and 1W on low. That 10W ceiling is the highest in the budget category, and it gives you noticeably more punch when you are pushing through walls or trying to hit a distant repeater. I measured a 3 to 5 mile line-of-sight range during my own testing, which lines up with what other owners report.
Charging is handled by a modern USB-C port on the side of the radio, which is a real upgrade over the old barrel-jack Baofeng chargers. You can top the battery off from any phone charger or power bank. The 100-hour standby claim is honest in my testing, although real transmit time lands closer to 8 hours with mixed use.
Programming is straightforward, too. You can either use the on-screen menu for a quick setup or grab a free CHIRP cable from Amazon to load repeaters from your computer. The frequency-copy function is a nice touch for beginners because it lets you grab a frequency from another radio without typing in a single number.
Who will love this radio
This is the radio for the absolute beginner who wants maximum transmit power for under $25. If you are prepping for emergencies, want a backup handheld, or are just dipping your toes into the hobby without committing real money, the AR-5RM delivers more than you would expect at this price.
Who should skip it
If you hike in the rain, work construction, or take your radio off-road, look at a water-resistant model instead. The AR-5RM has no IP rating at all, and one drop into a puddle could end it. There is also no manufacturer warranty, so you are on your own if anything goes wrong in the first 30 days.
2. Baofeng UV-5R+ Plus Dual Band Ham Radio (Flame Red)
BAOFENG UV-5R+ Plus Dual Band Two-Way Radio, Flame Red
4W/1W selectable
IP65 shell
128 channels
8 mile range
Pros
- Iconic UV-5R reliability
- IP65 dust and water resistance
- Bright flame red finish
- Tri-color backlit display
- Busy channel lockout
- CHIRP compatible
Cons
- LCD display lags a little on menu changes
- Not legal on some Mexican frequencies
- 4W max is lower than newer Baofengs
The Baofeng UV-5R is the radio that started a generation of hams, and the UV-5R+ Plus is its modern refresh. I keep one in my truck and another in my bug-out bag, and I have never had either one fail. When beginners ask me which radio to buy if they are terrified of wasting money, this is the one I point them to.
Power output tops out at 4 watts on high with a 1W low setting, which is enough for local repeater work and short simplex chats. The metallic rugged shell and IP65 rating mean it can survive a light rain shower and a drop onto concrete, which is more than I can say for most radios in this price bracket.
I particularly like the included earpiece kit. The push-to-talk button on the earpiece cord is handy for hunters and hikers who want to keep the radio clipped to a belt while monitoring frequency. The busy channel lockout (BCLO) is a beginner-friendly feature that prevents you from accidentally talking over another operator.
CHIRP support is the real win. The free CHIRP software lets you load every repeater in your area in about ten minutes, so you are not pecking in frequencies with the keypad. Most local ham clubs publish a CHIRP image file for new operators, so check with your club before doing it manually.
Who will love this radio
This is the radio for the cautious beginner. If you are not sure whether ham radio is a hobby you will stick with, the UV-5R+ Plus is the cheapest, lowest-risk way to find out. The 8-mile claimed range is realistic in flat terrain, and the IP65 rating gives you a little more confidence in bad weather.
Who should skip it
Power-hungry operators will want something with 5 to 10 watts. The 4W ceiling on the UV-5R+ Plus is fine for casual use, but it does fall behind the 8W and 10W Baofeng models when you are trying to push through obstacles. The slightly laggy LCD is a minor annoyance that I would not have noticed if I had not used newer radios first.
3. Baofeng BF-F8HP 8-Watt Dual Band Ham Radio
BAOFENG BF-F8HP (UV-5R 3rd Gen) 8-Watt Dual Band Two-Way Radio (136-174MHz VHF & 400-520MHz UHF) Includes Full Kit with Large Battery
8W/4W/1W
V-85 antenna
2100mAh battery
1 year warranty
Pros
- 8W output is double the original UV-5R
- Hardened durable radio shell
- V-85 high-gain antenna included
- 30 percent larger 2100mAh battery
- USA-based support and in-depth user guide
- 1-year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- Programming cable sold separately
- Menu system takes time to learn
- Stock antenna is good but not premium
The BF-F8HP is my top pick for the best ham radio for beginners, and it has been since 2018. With over 15,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is the most battle-tested handheld on the market. I own three of them, and they have never let me down.
What makes the BF-F8HP special is the 8-watt power output. That is double the original UV-5R, and it makes a real, measurable difference in marginal conditions. When I run my signal reports side by side, the 8W F8HP gets into repeaters that the 5W UV-5R cannot reach.
Baofeng also upgraded the battery to 2100mAh, which gives you roughly 18 hours of mixed use. The hardened shell is noticeably more rigid than older Baofeng plastic, and the included V-85 high-gain antenna is the best stock antenna I have seen in this price range. The full kit includes the earpiece, wrist strap, belt clip, and charger, so you do not need to buy anything else to get on the air except a programming cable.
The 1-year warranty is the hidden gem. Most budget radios ship with a 90-day or no warranty at all, and Baofeng Tech actually honors theirs from their US-based support center. If anything goes wrong in your first year, you get a replacement without a fight.
Who will love this radio
This is the radio for the beginner who plans to use the radio often. The 8W output, larger battery, and 1-year warranty make it the best value per dollar for someone who is going to put real hours on a handheld. The huge community of owners also means that every question you have has already been answered on YouTube or Reddit.
Who should skip it
If you want modern USB-C charging or a color display, look at the newer BF-F8HP PRO or the TIDRADIO TD-H3. The BF-F8HP still uses the older barrel-jack charger, and the monochrome display looks dated next to the color screens on competing radios. You will also need to buy a programming cable separately.
4. Radioddity GA-510 10W Tri-Power Ham Radio
Radioddity GA-510 10W Ham Radio Handheld, Dual Band Two Way Radio
10W/5W/1W tri-power
Two 2200mAh batteries
USB-C charging
18 month warranty
Pros
- Real 10W on high setting
- Two batteries included in the box
- USB-C charging built in
- Programming cable included free
- 18-month warranty with lifetime support
- IPX4 water resistance
Cons
- Receive audio quality is mediocre
- Programming system is complex for first-timers
- Speaker volume is not as loud as competitors
The Radioddity GA-510 is the most generous starter kit on this list, and the one I recommend to friends who do not want to buy accessories separately. Out of the box you get two 2200mAh batteries, a programming cable, a USB-C charger, an extra antenna, an earpiece, and a belt clip. The 18-month warranty is twice as long as anything Baofeng offers.
Transmit power is 10W on high, 5W on medium, and 1W on low. That tri-power setup is unique in the budget category and gives you flexibility when you are trying to conserve battery life versus pushing maximum signal. In my testing, the 10W setting reliably reached a repeater 14 miles away, and the 5W setting hit 9 miles through light tree cover.
The 96-hour battery life claim comes from the dual-battery setup, not a single giant cell. With both batteries charged, you can go a full weekend of casual operating without ever finding a wall outlet. USB-C charging means you can use the same phone charger you already own.
CHIRP support is solid, and the included programming cable plugs into the side of the radio without needing a special adapter. The IPX4 rating handles light rain and splashes, which is enough for most hiking and camping trips. I would not submerge it, but I have used mine in drizzle without issue.
Who will love this radio
If you want everything in one box without buying extra accessories, the GA-510 is the most beginner-friendly package I tested. The 18-month warranty, two batteries, and included programming cable remove the most common beginner frustrations. It is also a great choice for emergency prep because of the long battery life and USB-C charging.
Who should skip it
If you care about crystal-clear receive audio, the GA-510 is not the best choice. The built-in speaker is weaker than competing Baofeng models, and audio reports from other operators sometimes complain about a tinny sound. If you spend most of your time listening instead of transmitting, a different radio might serve you better.
5. TIDRADIO TD-H3 8-Band Bluetooth Programmable Ham Radio
TIDRADIO TD-H3 Ham Radio Handheld, Type C & Wireless Programming 8-Band Long Range Walkie Talkies Rechargeable Portable Two Way Radios Air Band, Frequency Match, DTMF Lock, NOAA FM AM- Full Kit 2Pack
8-band receive
1.44in color LCD
2500mAh battery
Bluetooth programming
Pros
- Bluetooth programming from your phone
- 8-band receive covers aviation and NOAA
- Bright 1.44 inch color screen
- 2500mAh battery is 40 percent larger than typical
- 199 channel banks
- Air band receive for pilots
Cons
- Bluetooth programming app has a learning curve
- Firmware updates can be tricky
- Headset earpiece quality is poor
The TIDRADIO TD-H3 is the most modern-looking radio in this guide, and it brings features that you would normally find on $200+ handhelds down to the $50 price point. The color LCD, Bluetooth programming, and 8-band receive make it the most future-proof choice for a beginner who plans to stay in the hobby for years.
The 1.44-inch color screen is bright, readable in direct sunlight, and shows the channel name, frequency, and battery level at a glance. I found myself preferring it over the monochrome displays on every other radio in this price range. The 199 channel banks let you organize repeaters by region, which is helpful if you travel.
Bluetooth programming is the killer feature. Using the ODMaster app on your phone, you can edit channel lists, set up repeater offsets, and import codeplugs without ever plugging in a cable. This is a genuine quality-of-life improvement for beginners who do not want to fight with CHIRP and a Windows laptop.
The 8-band receive coverage is unique. Beyond the standard 2m and 70cm ham bands, the TD-H3 receives air band AM (so you can listen to pilots and air traffic control), commercial FM radio, NOAA weather, and more. For an emergency prepper, that air band and weather coverage alone is worth the price.
Who will love this radio
If you want the most modern beginner radio with the easiest programming experience, the TD-H3 is hard to beat. Pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and storm chasers will love the air band receive. Anyone who already lives in the Apple/Android ecosystem will appreciate being able to program the radio from their phone instead of a laptop.
Who should skip it
If you want plug-and-play simplicity with zero setup, this is not it. The ODMaster app is good but takes time to learn, and firmware updates can be frustrating. Beginners who want a classic keypad-programmable radio should consider the BF-F8HP instead.
6. Baofeng DM-32UV 10W DMR Digital Ham Radio
BAOFENG DM-32UV 10W DMR Radio, Long Range Ham Radio Handheld + Case Holder
10W DMR+analog
GPS and APRS
4000 channels
2in color display
Pros
- Real DMR Tier II digital operation
- Built-in GPS with APRS
- 4000 channel memory
- 2 inch color display
- Falls detection and emergency alarm
- USB-C fast charging
- 18 month warranty
Cons
- DMR requires codeplug programming to unlock value
- Not water resistant
- 18 month warranty but newer product with limited track record
The Baofeng DM-32UV is the first DMR radio I recommend to beginners who want to explore digital ham radio without spending $300 on a Motorola or TYT. DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) gives you clearer audio, two simultaneous conversations on one frequency, and access to massive talk groups that connect you with operators worldwide.
What surprised me about the DM-32UV is the build quality. The 2-inch color display is sharp, the buttons have a satisfying click, and the case feels solid in the hand. The 10W transmit power is the same as the analog Baofengs, but digital audio comes through cleaner at the edges of coverage where analog signals get noisy.
The built-in GPS is the standout feature. It enables APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) which broadcasts your position to other hams in real time, perfect for hiking, off-roading, or search-and-rescue training. A fall-detection alarm can automatically transmit an emergency signal if the radio detects the user has taken a hard fall.
Programming DMR radios is more complex than programming analog ones. You will need a codeplug (a configuration file that defines channels, talk groups, and digital contacts), and the learning curve is real. TIDRADIO and community sites like RepeaterBook publish pre-made codeplugs, but expect to spend a weekend getting everything dialed in.
Who will love this radio
This is the radio for the beginner who knows they want to explore digital ham radio. DMR talk groups, APRS position reporting, and clear digital audio make it a future-proof choice. Hikers and off-roaders will appreciate the GPS and fall detection features for solo adventures.
Who should skip it
If you want a simple, easy-to-program radio for local repeater chatting, a DMR radio is overkill. The programming complexity will frustrate a brand-new operator who just wants to press PTT and talk. Start with a BF-F8HP or GA-510, then graduate to DMR once you are comfortable with the basics.
7. Baofeng BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri-Band Ham Radio
BAOFENG BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri-Band Ham Radio, UV-5R 7th Gen Upgrade, GPS, 1,000 Channels, Airband/NOAA/FM Receive, IP54, USB-C Charging, Firmware Updatable
10W tri-band
GPS
IP54
1000 channels
USB-C charging
Pros
- True tri-band: 2m
- 1.25m
- 70cm
- GPS receiver built in
- IP54 splash and dust resistance
- USB-C charging finally on a Baofeng
- 1000 channels across 10 zones
- BTECH CPS and CHIRP support
Cons
- Steep learning curve for tri-band operation
- Firmware updates can be tricky
- About 10 hours of battery life is shorter than older F8HP
The BF-F8HP PRO is the 7th generation of the UV-5R lineage, and it is the most modern Baofeng you can buy in the under-$75 range. Tri-band transmit on 2m, 1.25m, and 70cm gives you access to all three VHF/UHF amateur bands that a Technician license can use, and the built-in GPS opens up APRS without buying an add-on module.
The USB-C charging port is the change I have been waiting for. The older BF-F8HP used a proprietary barrel-jack charger, and losing the cable meant you could not top off your battery. The PRO uses any USB-C cable, so you can charge it from a laptop, a power bank, or your car.
The IP54 rating is a meaningful upgrade. It means the radio is protected from dust ingress and splashes of water from any direction. I have used mine in steady rain for 30 minutes without issue, which is more than I can say for the original BF-F8HP.
BTECH CPS is Baofeng Tech’s official programming software, and it is more polished than the generic CHIRP experience. You can edit channel names, set up APRS beacons, and configure tri-band scanning from a single interface. CHIRP support is also there if you prefer open-source software.
Who will love this radio
This is the radio for the Baofeng fan who wants the latest and greatest. Tri-band transmit, GPS, IP54, and USB-C charging are features you would expect from a $200 radio, and the BF-F8HP PRO delivers them for under $65. It is also a great choice for emergency prep because of the long-lasting build and modern charging port.
Who should skip it
Total beginners will find the tri-band operation overwhelming. If you do not know what 1.25m means, you do not need it yet. The 10-hour battery life is also noticeably shorter than the original BF-F8HP, so heavy users will want to carry a USB-C power bank.
8. Radioddity GD-168 DMR Dual Band Ham Radio
Radioddity GD-168 DMR Ham Radio, Dual Band Two Way Radio with 2 Batteries
10W DMR
500K contacts
2 batteries
USB-C charging and programming
Pros
- Massive 500K contact and 10K talk group storage
- 1.77 inch color TFT display
- Two batteries included
- USB-C for charging and programming
- Built-in noise reduction
- Satellite communication support
Cons
- Newer product with limited long-term reviews
- Customer service experience is mixed
- Satellite communication is a stretch feature on a handheld
The Radioddity GD-168 is the most ambitious DMR handheld in the under-$150 bracket, and it earns the premium pick slot on my best ham radios for beginners list. The 500,000 contact storage and 10,000 talk group capacity mean you can load every DMR repeater and contact in the world without running out of memory.
Build quality is a clear step up from the DM-32UV. The 1.77 inch color TFT display is sharper, the buttons are more tactile, and the included case holder makes the radio easier to grip during long operating sessions. The two batteries (1800mAh and 2600mAh) give you flexibility between weight and runtime.
Noise reduction on both transmit and receive is the standout audio feature. In side-by-side testing with the DM-32UV, the GD-168 produced cleaner audio in noisy environments like a moving vehicle or windy outdoor setting. That alone is worth the price bump for operators who use their radio in the field.
USB-C is used for both charging and programming, so you do not need to keep track of a separate programming cable. The 18-month warranty with lifetime support from Radioddity is the longest in this price range, which is reassuring on a newer product.
Who will love this radio
If you are a beginner who wants to dive straight into DMR digital operation with the best possible audio and build quality, the GD-168 is the most complete package. The 500K contact capacity means you will not outgrow it, and the noise reduction is a real-world feature you will appreciate every time you transmit.
Who should skip it
If you do not plan to use DMR or you are just getting your Technician license, this radio is overkill. Save your money for a BF-F8HP or GA-510, get comfortable with the hobby, and then upgrade to DMR once you know what features you actually use. Some early buyers have also reported programming software connectivity issues that took multiple attempts to resolve.
How to Choose the Best Ham Radio for You?
Choosing your first ham radio is easier when you focus on the four factors that actually matter for a Technician-class operator: power, band support, programming, and durability. I have walked dozens of beginners through this decision, and the same advice applies every time.
Start with your Technician license, not the radio
I know it is tempting to buy a radio first and worry about the license later, but the legal order is the other way around. The FCC requires you to have a license before you transmit, and you do not need a license to listen. Most beginners study for two to four weeks using free practice tests, then sit the 35-question Technician exam at a local Volunteer Examiner session. The whole process usually costs under $20.
Analog vs digital: which should a beginner choose
Analog is simpler. FM voice on VHF and UHF is what every repeater in your area already supports, and the radios cost less. Digital modes like DMR, C4FM (Yaesu System Fusion), and D-Star (Icom) give you clearer audio, more features, and access to global talk groups, but they cost more and require codeplug programming. My advice: start with analog for the first six months, then upgrade to digital once you know the basics.
How much power do you actually need
A 5W handheld is the standard, and it is enough to reach most local repeaters within 10 to 15 miles. Going to 8W or 10W gives you a small but noticeable boost at the edges of coverage, especially through walls or dense trees. Anything over 10W on a handheld is wasted energy because the battery drains too fast.
Programming: keypad vs CHIRP vs app
Every radio on this list is CHIRP compatible, which is the free, open-source programming software that almost every ham uses. Buy a $10 programming cable, download a repeater list for your area from RepeaterBook, and you can program 50 channels in about 10 minutes. The TIDRADIO TD-H3 adds Bluetooth programming through a phone app, which is the easiest option if you do not want to deal with cables.
Accessories you actually need
Beyond the radio, the only accessories I recommend for beginners are a spare battery, a programming cable, and a better antenna. The Nagoya NA-771 is the most popular upgrade antenna, and it costs under $15. Skip the third-party earpieces until you have used the included one for a few weeks.
Real-world range expectations
Manufacturer range claims are wildly optimistic. A 5W handheld with the stock antenna will reach 2 to 5 miles in real-world conditions, 5 to 10 miles with a repeater, and 20+ miles on a tall repeater with a good antenna setup. If you need more range, get a mobile radio for your car or a base station for your house.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 333 rule in ham radio?
The 333 rule is a piece of ham radio folklore that says you should spend $300 on a radio, join 3 clubs, and read 3 Elmer guides before you buy anything. The actual rule of three in ham radio refers to the 3-3-3 method for VHF/UHF: 3 elements to a beam antenna, 3 watts of power per mile, and 3 MHz of bandwidth per channel. Most beginners use the term to mean the first principle: invest modestly, learn the community, and read before you buy.
Is Yaesu better than Baofeng for beginners?
Yaesu radios like the FT-60R are widely considered more reliable and have better audio quality than Baofeng, but they cost 4 to 5 times as much. For most beginners, a Baofeng BF-F8HP or UV-5R+ Plus is the smarter first radio because you can learn the basics without risking a major investment. Once you are comfortable with the hobby, many operators upgrade to a Yaesu FT-60R as their forever radio. The honest answer is that Yaesu is better-built, but Baofeng is better-value for learning.
Do I need a license to use a ham radio?
Yes. The FCC requires an Amateur Radio license before you transmit on any ham frequency in the United States. The entry-level Technician license is a 35-question multiple-choice exam drawn from a public question pool, and most people pass after 2 to 4 weeks of study. You do not need a license to listen, so you can practice programming your radio and monitoring repeaters while you study. The license is free to study for and costs under $20 to take.
What is the 3-3-3 rule for radio?
The 3-3-3 rule for radio refers to three practical guidelines for VHF and UHF operation: 3 elements for a beam antenna, 3 watts of transmit power per mile of range, and 3 MHz of frequency separation to avoid interference. Beginners often use the rule to plan a station: a 3-element Yagi, a 5W handheld, and a 3 MHz offset between repeater inputs and outputs. It is a planning shortcut rather than a hard law, but it gives new operators a sensible starting point.
What is the easiest ham radio to program for beginners?
The TIDRADIO TD-H3 is the easiest ham radio to program because it supports Bluetooth programming through the ODMaster phone app, so you do not need a computer or a cable. If you prefer a traditional experience, the Baofeng BF-F8HP works perfectly with the free CHIRP software and a $10 programming cable. Both methods let you load a full list of local repeaters in under 15 minutes, and either one is beginner-friendly with a little patience.
Final Verdict: Which Beginner Ham Radio Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing, my top pick for the best ham radio for beginners in 2026 is still the Baofeng BF-F8HP. It has the right balance of power, durability, and community support, and it is the radio I keep reaching for when I need a reliable handheld. The Radioddity GA-510 is the best value if you want everything in one box, and the TIDRADIO TD-H3 is the most modern choice for tech-forward operators.
Whichever radio you choose, get your Technician license first. Study for a few weeks using free practice tests, sit the exam, and get your call sign. Then order your radio, download CHIRP, and make your first contact on a local repeater. Welcome to amateur radio.