Explorer QRZ-1 5W VHF/UHF Handheld Transceiver

as a new ham I am impressed with the build quality. In my lrofessional life I use Public Safety certified HT's that cost thousands of dollars. This little unit feels good in the hand an while not "premium" doesnt feel "cheap" like some at that price point do. As for the signal quality and performance I have much experience to compare it to at the ham level but for my basic needs I have no doubt it will serve its purpose: to let me talk to my ham radio friends.

overall great experience with gigaparts and the QRZ-1

This is a well made hand held. Easy to program with very little effort. Even paying the full price makes this radio a great entry radio. With all the accessories available, it is very versatile. I had mine programmed within 15 minutes for multiple repeaters.

Great little radio, came with charging unit. Easy to program. Excellent battery life. Useable right out of the box.

The JumpStart program is a great offering for new amateur radio operators. I have multiple HT's, but this one takes the cake for a simple and effective VHF/UHF transceiver. The radio has a compact form factor and is built solid. I have used this radio on my local repeaters and on simplex with no issues. The radio is easy to program and GigaParts offers an impressive line of accessories. The accessories make it an all-out kit radio you can use under varying circumstances and rely on.

Was easy to program and have enjoyed using it to learn and grow

It's a great 1st little radio for a new ham, It's loud very sensitive volume control it's only 5w so time will tell, it's great for around the house use with a hotspot, it's light and the battery (extended) if you get that battery lasts the whole day.

Very nice equipment, easy to program, and works perfectly.

I picked up this radio through the quick-start program when I received my technician license. At 80% off you can't go wrong. The signal is clean and clear. I also picked up the bigger battery and the hi-gain whip antenna. I've been told that my modulation is clear and strong by others in various repeater nets. Some were surprised to learn that I was using the Explorer handheld. The only downside is that the programming software is proprietary and runs another $25 (and does not qualify for the 80% quick-start discount like the other accessories). Even so, the radio is a much better build than my 8W UV5R and sounds much cleaner. It should be noted that the antenna connector is SMA-F, so you won't be able to directly use antennas from a Baofeng or similar radio without an adapter. I have since picked up the new AnyTone handheld but am still using the QRZ Explorer too, as I navigate the steep learning curve for the AT radio. In short, the Explorer QRZ-1 is a good choice when obtained through the quick-start program, but I would be hard-pressed to purchase at its full retail price. The radio is a 5-star performer, but I gave it 4 stars due to the need for proprietary code plug software and Chirp incompatibility.

This is a good little radio if you are just starting out. You will need a better antenna of course. But, will do well as a EDC radio in your go bag for emergencies.

Feels good in the hand. Loud and decent audio. I do not like having to go through the menu to scan. Save your money for a Yaesu or equivalent.