Samcom FPCN30A vs Baofeng BF-X3 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Samcom FPCN30A and Baofeng BF-X3? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.

FeatureSamcom FPCN30ABaofeng BF-X3
Image
Radio NameSamcom FPCN30ABaofeng BF-X3
Bands70cm2m, 1.25m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm0/3.53/1.1
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v8.4 v
Rated mAh1500 mAh9500 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant282 mm254 mm
Width58 mm60 mm
Thickness w/clip48 mm50 mm
Weight255 g260 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book Link-LINK
Price$70$45
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceBC
Rating OverallCD
Conclusions

I have been curious about Samcom equipment for a while now, so I am very happy to have finally been able to put the Samcom FPCN30A through its paces. Like all radios, there is good and bad to be found.

The biggest question here is, does the Samcom FPCN30A do what it should well enough for the price you pay?

I would say, absolutely. It combines both physical and software refinements that make it an excellent choice for business users who need a reliable, quality system on a smaller budget than some of the larger, well-known business-class radio manufacturers.

Unfortunately, the Baofeng BF-X3 plus looks like another attempt to juggle things around and sell yet another radio. There is nothing special here, your money is better spent on a Baofeng UV-9R plus.

To recap, the UV-9R has a better clip, volume knob shield, appears much more waterproof, feels more rugged, has a multicolored keypad, includes a better antenna, and is cheaper. I could go on, but why.