The Baofeng UV-9R Plus builds upon the rugged design of the UV-9R, adding extended battery life, improved waterproof sealing, and refined firmware for better signal stability. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders, and professional users, the UV-9R Plus offers powerful performance in environments where reliability is critical. Its IP67 waterproof rating and enhanced battery make it one of the most durable Baofeng handhelds ever produced.
This guide provides a complete breakdown of the UV-9R Plus specifications, features, and known issues to help you get the best performance from your radio.
Covers both amateur and public service bands for flexible communication.
FM Broadcast Receiver
65–108 MHz
Receive local FM broadcasts for weather or entertainment.
Transmit Power
8 W (High) / 5 W (Medium) / 1 W (Low)
Strong output power for long-distance communication.
Operating Voltage
7.4 V DC (Li-ion)
Uses Baofeng’s standard voltage for compatibility across the series.
Battery Capacity
3200 mAh (standard extended pack)
Provides up to 18 hours of operation on a full charge.
Modulation Type
FM (F3E), wide/narrow selectable
Enables clear voice transmission and compatibility with narrowband systems.
Audio Output Power
≈ 1 W
High-volume output ideal for noisy outdoor conditions.
Receiver Sensitivity
≈ 0.2 µV
Excellent reception even in fringe areas.
Selectivity / Spurious Rejection
≥ 65 dB
Reduces interference from nearby frequencies.
🔊 Communication Features
Feature
UV-9R Plus Value
What It Means in Practice
Dual Watch / Dual Standby
Supported
Monitors two frequencies simultaneously.
CTCSS / DCS Tone Squelch
50 CTCSS + 104 DCS
Keeps communication private and filters interference.
VOX (Hands-Free)
Adjustable sensitivity
Enables voice-activated transmission.
Channel Memory
128 channels
Store favorite frequencies and repeater channels.
Scan Function
5–10 channels/s
Detects active frequencies quickly.
Voice Prompt
English / Chinese
Aids in menu navigation and setup.
TX Timeout Timer (TOT)
Adjustable 15–180 s
Prevents damage from long accidental transmissions.
Keypad Backlight
Orange
Improves visibility in dark environments.
Programming Software
CHIRP compatible
Simplifies configuration and firmware management.
🔋 Power, Battery & Charging
Parameter
Value
Practical Note
Battery Type
7.4 V Li-ion (sealed waterproof)
Rugged design ensures water protection.
Standard Battery
3200 mAh
Provides long runtime for field operations.
Charging Time
4–5 hours
Charges via waterproof desktop dock.
Charger Input
10 V DC / 500 mA
Works with 9R-compatible cradles and car chargers.
Battery Eliminator
Optional
Enables continuous vehicle operation without battery drain.
🧱 Physical & Build Characteristics
Attribute
Value
Practical Meaning
Dimensions (H × W × D)
132 × 62 × 36 mm
Slightly larger than UV-9R to accommodate larger battery.
Weight
≈ 290 g
Rugged yet portable for outdoor and field use.
Antenna Connector
Proprietary waterproof SMA-type
Sealed for IP67 protection.
Material / Build
Polycarbonate with reinforced sealing
Durable, impact-resistant housing for heavy-duty use.
Water Resistance
IP67
Fully waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
Display Type
Dual-line LCD
Displays frequency, channel name, and dual-watch mode.
Design Finish
Matte black, orange grip edges
Optimized for visibility and ergonomic grip.
📡 Range & Performance in the Field
Condition
Expected Range
Notes
Urban
1–2 miles
Typical range with structural obstructions.
Suburban / Rural
3–8 miles
Performs strongly in open areas.
Line-of-Sight / Elevated Terrain
10–15 miles
Maximum range under optimal conditions.
Repeater Access
25 miles or more
Consistent and reliable coverage with good repeater access.
🧩 Accessories & Expandability
Accessory
Compatibility
Why It Matters
Speaker Mic
Waterproof 2-pin UV-9R type
Maintains IP67 seal and improves usability.
Programming Cable
UV-9R waterproof USB cable
Required for CHIRP configuration.
High-Gain Antenna
Waterproof SMA-compatible
Extends effective range while maintaining waterproof rating.
Extended Battery
3200 mAh included
Longer operating time for multi-day events.
Battery Eliminator
Yes (optional)
Powers directly from a 12 V source.
Dock Charger
Included
Waterproof cradle for easy charging.
🌐 Regulatory & Certification Details
Parameter
Value
Meaning for Users
FCC ID
2AJGM-UV9RPLUS
FCC Part 97 amateur certification.
CE Mark
Yes
Certified for EU compliance.
License Requirement
Amateur (U.S. Part 97)
Legal for ham use; receive-only otherwise.
Frequency Restrictions
Receive FRS/GMRS only
Transmission limited to licensed bands.
Firmware
UV-9R series firmware
Supports UV-9R programming files with added power profiles.
🛰️ Model Variants & Compatibility
Model Variant
Key Difference
Shared Features
UV-9R
5 W, smaller 2200 mAh battery
Compact and lighter model.
UV-9R Plus
8 W, 3200 mAh extended battery
Longer battery life and higher transmit output.
UV-9R Pro
Updated firmware and audio amplifier
Slightly improved sound quality and stability.
GT-3WP
Similar waterproof platform
Compatible accessories and programming.
⚠️ Known Issues
Issue
Description
Impact / Fix
Antenna Connector Limitation
Uses proprietary waterproof SMA connector, limiting upgrade options.
Use 9R-compatible antennas or adapters for extended range.
Charger Dock Alignment
Charger contacts sometimes fail to engage.
Press down until charging LED lights up.
Firmware Version Variations
Some batches use different firmware builds.
Use CHIRP or official software to verify compatibility.
Audio Distortion at Max Volume
High output power may distort sound.
Keep volume at 70–80% for clarity.
Rubber Port Cover Wear
Repeated use weakens waterproof covers.
Replace covers or use silicone sealant for long-term use.
Waterproofing Limits
Rated for freshwater immersion only.
Avoid saltwater and prolonged submersion beyond 30 minutes.
Battery Overheating During Long TX
Prolonged 8 W transmissions can generate heat.
Alternate power levels or allow cooldown between transmissions.
Firmware Lockout on CHIRP Uploads
Incorrect image files may cause memory errors.
Always match CHIRP profile with UV-9R Plus firmware version.
🧭 Practical Takeaways
The UV-9R Plus is a reliable waterproof handheld offering long battery life and excellent outdoor performance. With its 8 W output, IP67 rating, and rugged housing, it’s well-suited for rescue work, off-roading, boating, or field communication. Known issues are mostly hardware-specific, such as connector or charging quirks, but these do not affect reliability or signal strength.
Its large battery and robust build make it one of the most capable models in Baofeng’s lineup – ideal for users who prioritize durability and endurance.
🏁 Conclusion
The Baofeng UV-9R Plus stands out as a high-power, waterproof handheld built for demanding conditions. It combines superior battery capacity, powerful transmit performance, and full CHIRP compatibility, making it one of the most versatile portable transceivers available.
For anyone needing a dependable, weather-resistant radio that can handle both everyday and extreme use, the UV-9R Plus is a trusted choice that delivers consistent results – rain or shine.
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