Explorer QRZ-1 vs Baofeng UV-21 - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Explorer QRZ-1 and Baofeng UV-21? 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.
| Feature | Explorer QRZ-1 | Baofeng UV-21 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Explorer QRZ-1 | Baofeng UV-21 |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 3.9/5 | 3.4/2 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 8.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 1400 mAh | mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1070 mAh | 1460 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | F-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 246 mm | 327 mm |
| Width | 59 mm | 63 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 47 mm | 54 mm |
| Weight | 232 g | 300 g |
| Color Screen | No | Yes |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | Yes |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Price | $34 | $25 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Rating by Price | F | A |
| Rating Overall | C | A |
| Rating Ergonomics | - | A |
| Conclusions | There is absolutely nothing wrong with the Explorer QRZ-1, it is a solid radio at its price point. I am still not sure what its purpose in life is, seeing as how the TYT is the same radio and usually cheaper. At least it isn’t trying to rip you off, like the MyEmergencyRadio.com radio is. Although I don’t see any new ones available for sale, if I ran across a used one for a reasonable amount and needed an inexpensive starter radio, this would make a fine choice. My purchase link in this review sends you to the new and still manufactured TYT TH-UV88 instead of the discontinued, more expensive QRZ-1. | Do I recommend this radio? Sure. It provides a good, solid performing set of electronics housed in a comfortable exterior shell. It even comes with an antenna that isn’t complete trash. Would I recommend the Baofeng UV-21, UV-21R or UV-21 Pro? It’s a toss-up between the 21 and 21r as I am just not seeing a real difference, and I would stay away from the extra cost of the 21 Pro unless I really needed GPS in my car, in my phone, and in my radio. |