Start here · Essential guide
Is Ham Radio UHF or VHF? Both Bands Compared
Ham radio uses both VHF and UHF, plus HF and more. Learn how 2 m and 70 cm differ in range, building penetration and antennas, and which suits a first handheld.
Bands, Modes & Software
Bands & Range
5 guides, starting with Is Ham Radio UHF or VHF? Both Bands Compared.
Ham Radio 70cm Band Plan: Segments and Uses
A guide to the US 70cm ham band (420-450 MHz): repeaters, simplex, weak-signal, satellite and ATV segments, offsets and how to read a band plan.
HF Radio Range in Miles
How far can HF radio reach? Learn typical ground wave and skywave distances in miles, what changes them, and how to estimate range on each ham band.
VHF Handheld Radio Range: What to Expect in the Field
How far does a VHF handheld reach? Typical ranges in miles for simplex and repeaters, how the radio horizon works, and ways to improve range.
What Is HF Radio? High Frequency Basics for Hams
HF radio covers 3-30 MHz and can reach around the world by bouncing off the ionosphere. Learn how it works, which ham bands it includes and how to start.
Related topics
More in bands, modes & software
Digital Modes 7 guides, starting with Ham Radio Digital Mode Identification by Sound and Waterfall. Ham Radio Software 3 guides, starting with Ham Radio Mapping Software for Logging and Propagation. Shortwave Radio 5 guides, starting with What Is Shortwave Radio Good For? Uses and Listening Tips. Ham vs Other Radio Services 3 guides, starting with Ham Radio vs CB vs Walkie-Talkie: Which Should You Choose?.