The Hiradio UV-98PLUS GPS APRS is one of the most interesting handheld radios to appear in the amateur radio market in recent years. While many handheld transceivers focus solely on VHF and UHF communications, the UV-98PLUS attempts to combine a traditional dual-band amateur radio, APRS tracker, GPS receiver, cross-band repeater, wideband scanner, shortwave receiver, and HF SSB listening radio into a single portable package.
With a claimed 10 watts of output power, 1024 memory channels, GPS APRS capability, cross-band repeating, USB-C charging, and a large 2.4-inch color display, the UV-98PLUS offers an impressive list of features at a surprisingly affordable price point. The question is whether this radio delivers enough performance to justify adding it to your radio collection.
First Impressions
The first thing that stands out about the UV-98PLUS is its size. This is not a tiny handheld radio. It is larger than a typical Baofeng UV-5R and feels more substantial in the hand.
The radio features a bright 2.4-inch color display that is significantly larger than what is found on most handheld transceivers. The screen is easy to read outdoors and provides plenty of room for displaying frequencies, signal strength, APRS information, GPS data, and menu options.
Build quality is surprisingly good for a radio in this price range. The case feels solid and the controls are reasonably well laid out. The radio includes a removable antenna, rechargeable battery, charger, USB-C charging cable, programming cable, and dedicated shortwave and medium-wave antennas.
Key Features
The UV-98PLUS is loaded with features that are rarely found together in a single handheld.
Major features include:
- 10 watt VHF/UHF transmit power
- Built-in GPS receiver
- APRS support
- Cross-band repeater function
- 1024 memory channels
- 2.4-inch color display
- USB-C charging
- Shortwave reception
- HF SSB reception
- AM aviation band reception
- NOAA weather channels
- Spectrum scanning
- Frequency counter
- VOX operation
- Triple-watch monitoring
- DTMF functions
- Field strength meter
- Wideband receive coverage from approximately 18 MHz through 620 MHz plus 840-1000 MHz coverage on supported versions.
For operators who enjoy experimenting with different radio services, the feature list alone makes this radio worth examining.
VHF and UHF Performance
As a conventional amateur radio transceiver, the UV-98PLUS performs reasonably well.
The radio covers the 2-meter and 70-centimeter amateur bands and advertises up to 10 watts of transmit power. Actual measured output may vary depending on battery condition, frequency, and individual unit variation, but most users report strong performance for local repeater and simplex communications.
Receive sensitivity is generally good. Local repeaters come in clearly and audio quality from the speaker is loud enough for mobile or outdoor use.
Transmit audio reports from users have been positive, with many operators reporting clear and understandable audio. The included microphone performs adequately, although serious operators may wish to use an external microphone or headset when possible.
GPS and APRS Capability
One of the strongest selling points of the UV-98PLUS is the inclusion of built-in GPS and APRS functionality.
APRS allows operators to:
- Track locations
- Send position reports
- Exchange short text messages
- Monitor nearby stations
- Support emergency communications
- Participate in public service events
Having GPS and APRS integrated directly into the radio eliminates the need for external GPS receivers or separate APRS devices. This makes the radio particularly attractive for:
- Hiking
- Camping
- Search and rescue exercises
- Emergency preparedness
- Public service events
- Portable operations
For many operators, APRS alone can justify the purchase because handheld radios with integrated APRS traditionally cost substantially more.
HF, Shortwave and SSB Reception
Perhaps the most unique feature of the UV-98PLUS is its ability to receive HF signals.
The radio can monitor:
- Shortwave broadcasts
- AM broadcasts
- Medium wave
- Long wave
- SSB communications
- CW signals
- Aviation AM
While it is important to understand that this is not a replacement for a dedicated HF transceiver, the receive capability is surprisingly useful.
Listening to amateur HF activity, international shortwave broadcasts, utility stations, and aviation communications adds tremendous value. For emergency preparedness enthusiasts, this wideband receive capability allows monitoring of many different services using a single radio.
Cross-Band Repeater Function
Cross-band repeating is a feature typically found on more expensive mobile radios.
The UV-98PLUS allows signals received on one band to be retransmitted on another band. This can be useful for:
- Extending handheld range
- Temporary event communications
- Portable operations
- Emergency communication setups
Although most operators will not use this feature daily, having it available on a handheld radio is impressive considering the price point.
Display and User Interface
The large color display is one of the radio's best features.
Compared to traditional handhelds that use small monochrome displays, the UV-98PLUS screen provides:
- Easier frequency viewing
- Better menu navigation
- Improved GPS information display
- Better APRS visibility
- Enhanced spectrum display
The menu system can be somewhat overwhelming at first due to the enormous number of available features. New operators may experience a learning curve, but experienced hams will likely appreciate the flexibility.
Battery Life
Battery performance is respectable considering the radio's capabilities.
GPS, APRS tracking, color display operation, and high-power transmitting all consume significant power. Operators using all features heavily should expect reduced operating time compared to a basic dual-band handheld.
Fortunately, USB-C charging makes recharging convenient in the field using:
- Power banks
- Solar chargers
- Vehicle adapters
- Portable battery stations
This is a major advantage for emergency preparedness and portable operation.
Programming
Programming can be accomplished using the included programming cable.
Users generally report that programming is straightforward once the appropriate software is installed. The large memory capacity of 1024 channels allows extensive frequency organization.
What I Like
- Excellent feature set for the price
- Built-in GPS and APRS
- Cross-band repeater capability
- HF and shortwave reception
- Large color display
- USB-C charging
- 1024 memory channels
- Wideband receiver coverage
- Good transmit audio
- Strong value for money
What Could Be Better
- No published waterproof rating
- Menu system can be complex
- Larger than many handheld radios
- Documentation could be improved
- Some quality-control inconsistencies have been reported by a small number of users
- Not a substitute for a dedicated HF transceiver when serious HF operation is required
Who Should Buy It?
The UV-98PLUS is an excellent choice for:
- Amateur radio operators wanting APRS
- Emergency preparedness enthusiasts
- Portable operators
- Hikers and campers
- Scanner enthusiasts
- Operators interested in HF listening
- Budget-conscious hams seeking maximum features
It is especially attractive for preppers because it combines multiple communication and monitoring capabilities into one compact package.
Final Verdict
The Hiradio UV-98PLUS GPS APRS is one of the most feature-packed handheld radios currently available in its price range. It successfully combines dual-band amateur radio communications, GPS, APRS, cross-band repeating, shortwave reception, HF SSB listening, aviation monitoring, and wideband scanning into a single portable unit.
No, it will not outperform dedicated APRS handhelds costing several hundred dollars, nor will it replace a true HF transceiver. However, when viewed as a multi-purpose communications tool, it delivers remarkable value.
For amateur radio operators, emergency communicators, and preparedness-minded users who want one radio capable of doing almost everything, the UV-98PLUS is easy to recommend.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
The UV-98PLUS offers an exceptional combination of features, versatility, and value that makes it one of the most interesting handheld radios currently available.
