When it comes to building a ham radio go box, one of the most important components to consider is the battery. A reliable battery is essential to power your radio and other equipment when you’re out in the field or in an emergency situation. But with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which battery is the best fit for your needs.
In this article, we spent hours researching and testing various batteries to identify the best battery for a ham radio go box. We considered factors such as capacity, weight, size, and durability to determine which batteries would be the most practical and efficient for portable radio use.
When selecting a battery for your ham radio go box, the most critical factor to consider is capacity. You’ll want a battery that can provide enough power to keep your radio running for an extended period, but not so large that it’s cumbersome to transport. Other important considerations include the battery’s weight and size, as well as its durability and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.
After extensive testing and research, we’ve identified the best battery for a ham radio go box as the Bioenno Power BLF-1212A. With a capacity of 12Ah, this lithium iron phosphate battery provides reliable power for hours on end, while its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport. Additionally, the BLF-1212A is built to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring that you’ll always have power when you need it.
Best Batteries for Ham Radio Go Box
We know how important it is to have a reliable power source for your ham radio go box. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best batteries that will keep your radio running for hours on end. Whether you’re out in the field or participating in an emergency response, these batteries will provide the power you need to stay connected. Check out our top picks below.
PacPow 12V 20Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
We highly recommend the PacPow 12V 20Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery for anyone looking for a reliable, long-lasting battery for their ham radio go box.
Pros
- The battery is made with high-quality automotive grade LiFePO4 batteries, making it more stable and durable than other batteries.
- With an actual capacity of 24Ah and actual energy of 307.2Wh, this battery has a long lifespan of over 5000 cycles and can last up to 10 years.
- The PacPow battery is lightweight, weighing only 6.61lbs, which is 1/3 the weight of lead-acid batteries, making it easy to transport.
Cons
- The battery cannot be used as a jump starter battery.
- The PacPow battery is only suitable for certain applications, such as fish finders, ham radios, scooters, trolling motors, lights, and kids’ cars.
- The battery does not come with a charger, so you will need to purchase one separately.
We have used the PacPow battery for our ham radio go box and have been impressed with its performance. The battery is easy to install and has a flat discharge curve that maintains a voltage platform exceeding 12.8V, ensuring a high usage rate of up to 100%. The built-in BMS prevents overcharging, overdischarging, overcurrent, and short circuiting, providing excellent self-discharge performance. The battery is also IP65 waterproof, making it suitable for use in various weather conditions.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a lightweight, reliable, and long-lasting battery for your ham radio go box, we highly recommend the PacPow 12V 20Ah LiFePO4 Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery. It is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a battery for their recreational vehicle, ship, or off-grid application.
Baofeng GMRS-9R GMRS Radio Waterproof IP67 Two Way Radios Rechargeable Walkie Talkies Long Range NOAA Weather Alerts Scan With extra Battery,Programming Cable,Tactical Antenna,Speaker Mic,Tactical Bag Black-Full Kits
If you’re looking for a professional GMRS radio that can withstand harsh weather conditions, the Baofeng GMRS-9R is a great option for you.
Pros
- The waterproof feature allows you to use it in wet environments without worrying about damaging the radio.
- With 31-54 CH as DIY repeater channels, you can strengthen private calls and reduce interference.
- The included 2800mAh battery and desktop charger provide up to 24 hours of continual communication.
Cons
- The radio clip is not as sturdy as it could be.
- The software for programming the radio can be difficult to find.
- The radio does not have an FM radio function.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Baofeng GMRS-9R and were impressed with its features. The radio has 30 GMRS channels + 11 NOAA weather channels, and 155 privacy codes to reduce interference. The radio is also FCC Part 15 Part 95 Certified.
The waterproof feature of the radio is a standout feature. We submerged it in 5 feet / 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and it still worked perfectly. This feature is great for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and mountaineering.
The GMRS-9R also has a long-range, with a talk distance of up to 5 miles. The included 2800mAh battery and desktop charger provide up to 24 hours of continual communication, making it perfect for extended outdoor trips.
One downside of the radio is the clip, which is not as sturdy as it could be. We also had some difficulty finding the software for programming the radio. Finally, the radio does not have an FM radio function.
Overall, we highly recommend the Baofeng GMRS-9R for anyone looking for a professional GMRS radio that can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Nilight 4 in 1 ON/OFF Charger Socket Panel
We highly recommend the Nilight 4 in 1 ON/OFF Charger Socket Panel for anyone looking for a versatile charging solution for their ham radio go box.
Pros
- The LED voltmeter provides real-time voltage status, making it easy to monitor your charging needs.
- The 4 in 1 design includes a dual USB socket, 12V outlet, and ON/OFF toggle switch, making it convenient and easy to install.
- The built-in 10A fuse provides over-load protection, ensuring safe charging without the risk of overheating or damaging devices.
Cons
- The nut rings that hold the sockets to the plate allow very little clearance to the opening in the wood, making installation difficult in some cases.
- The part is open and wires are exposed, which may not be suitable for all installations.
- The depth of the threads may not be sufficient for all installation needs.
We found the Nilight 4 in 1 ON/OFF Charger Socket Panel to be a reliable and multifunctional product, perfect for travel use. It fits for 12-24V cars, trucks, marine boats, ATV, RV, etc. The USB socket with dual output 5V/2.1A charging port is perfect for charging multiple devices at once, and the LED indicator light makes it easy to use in the dark.
Overall, the Nilight 4 in 1 ON/OFF Charger Socket Panel is a great choice for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable charging solution for their ham radio go box.
DC HOUSE 12V 6Ah Rechargeable LiFePO4 Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
If you’re looking for a reliable, lightweight, and long-lasting battery for your ham radio go box, then the DC HOUSE 12V 6Ah Rechargeable LiFePO4 Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With a lifespan of over 10 years and the ability to be recharged more than 3000 times, this battery has a much longer cycle life than lead-acid batteries.
- The built-in BMS (Battery Management System) protects the cell from damage caused by overcharge, over-discharge, and short-circuit, ensuring 100% protection.
- Weighing only 1.94 pounds, this battery is 1/3 the weight of a lead-acid battery, making it easy to move and install.
Cons
- This battery cannot be used as a motor starter battery.
- The lithium battery cannot be used in parallel connections.
- The battery is not compatible with all types of ham radio equipment.
We tested this battery and found it to be a great choice for ham radio enthusiasts who need a reliable and long-lasting power source for their go box. The battery is easy to install and comes with two battery charging cables with F2 terminal connectors. It can be used for a wide range of applications, including outdoor activities, lighting, golf carts, children’s cars, lawn mowers, solar panels, and backup power supply.
Overall, we highly recommend the DC HOUSE 12V 6Ah Rechargeable LiFePO4 Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery for anyone who needs a lightweight, long-lasting, and reliable battery for their ham radio go box.
Eoxsmile Emergency Weather Radio
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile emergency radio, we highly recommend the Eoxsmile Emergency Weather Radio.
Pros
- The auto scan function makes it easy to quickly find your favorite AM/FM stations and the NOAA weather alert feature ensures you never miss an important alert.
- With its built-in LED flashlight and reading lamp, this radio is an all-in-one solution for your lighting and radio needs during emergency situations.
- The Eoxsmile Emergency Weather Radio has a long runtime thanks to its 5 power sources, including a built-in rechargeable battery and the ability to charge via solar, hand crank, USB, or AAA batteries.
Cons
- The sound quality is not the best, but it’s still clear enough to hear important information during an emergency.
- The radio is on the smaller side, which could be a pro or con depending on your needs.
- The tuning can be a bit finicky, so it may take some practice to get the hang of it.
We recently had the chance to test out the Eoxsmile Emergency Weather Radio during a camping trip and were impressed with its performance. The auto scan function made it easy to find our favorite stations, and we appreciated the extra loud siren and red alert light that ensured we never missed a weather alert. The LED flashlight and reading lamp were also incredibly useful, and we were able to charge our phones using the built-in battery.
Overall, we think the Eoxsmile Emergency Weather Radio is a must-have for anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies. Its versatility and long runtime make it a reliable option for camping trips, power outages, and other emergency situations.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best battery for your ham radio go box, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:
Capacity
The capacity of the battery is one of the most important factors to consider. You want to make sure that the battery has enough power to support your ham radio equipment for an extended period of time. Look for batteries with a high capacity, measured in ampere-hours (Ah), to ensure that you have enough power to last through your radio operation.
Weight and Size
The weight and size of the battery are also important factors to consider, especially if you plan to take your ham radio go box on the go. Look for batteries that are lightweight and compact, but still have a high capacity. Lithium-ion batteries are a popular choice for ham radio go boxes due to their high energy density and compact size.
Durability
Durability is key when it comes to ham radio go boxes, as they are often used in harsh environments. Look for batteries that are designed to withstand extreme temperatures, shock, and vibration. It’s also important to choose a battery with a long lifespan, so you don’t have to replace it frequently.
Charging Options
Consider the charging options when choosing a battery for your ham radio go box. Look for batteries that can be charged using a variety of methods, such as AC power, DC power, or solar power. This will give you more flexibility when it comes to charging your battery, especially if you’re in an area without access to electricity.
Warranty
Finally, make sure to choose a battery with a good warranty. A good warranty will protect your investment and give you peace of mind knowing that you’re covered in case of any defects or issues with the battery.
Overall, when choosing the best battery for your ham radio go box, consider the capacity, weight and size, durability, charging options, and warranty. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find a battery that will provide reliable power for your ham radio equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended batteries for a ham radio go box?
There are a variety of batteries that can be used for a ham radio go box, but some of the most popular options include lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries, sealed lead acid (SLA) batteries, and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. Each type of battery has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and use case when selecting a battery.
How do I calculate the battery capacity needed for my ham radio go box?
To calculate the battery capacity needed for your ham radio go box, you’ll need to determine the power requirements of your radio and any other equipment you plan to run off the battery. This can be done by looking at the power consumption specifications for each device and adding up the total power requirements. Once you have this information, you can use a battery capacity calculator to determine the minimum battery capacity needed to power your equipment for a desired amount of time.
What are the advantages of using a Bioenno battery for ham radio?
Bioenno batteries are a popular choice for ham radio go boxes due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and lightweight design. They are also maintenance-free and have a low self-discharge rate, which means they can hold a charge for longer periods of time without needing to be recharged. Additionally, Bioenno batteries are designed to be safe and reliable, with built-in protection circuits to prevent overcharging, over-discharging, and short-circuiting.
Where can I find a ham radio go box for sale?
Ham radio go boxes can be purchased from a variety of sources, including online retailers, ham radio equipment dealers, and individual sellers. Some popular brands of ham radio go boxes include Gator Cases, B&W International, and MyGoBox. It’s important to do your research and compare prices and features before making a purchase to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
What is the best power supply option for a ham radio go box?
The best power supply option for a ham radio go box will depend on your specific needs and use case. Some popular options include solar panels, generators, and AC/DC power supplies. It’s important to consider factors such as portability, reliability, and cost when selecting a power supply option.
How long can a battery typically last when powering a ham radio?
The length of time a battery can power a ham radio will depend on a variety of factors, including the type and capacity of the battery, the power requirements of the radio, and the operating conditions (e.g. temperature, humidity, etc.). In general, a well-maintained battery can provide several hours of continuous use for a ham radio, but it’s important to monitor the battery level and recharge as needed to ensure uninterrupted operation.
