
Description
Quansheng UV-K1 Series: A First Look at the Upcoming Dual-Band Handheld
Quansheng Electronics is preparing to release the UV-K1 series, a new dual-band handheld transceiver that builds on the foundation established by their popular UV-K5 model. The new radio will be available in two variants: the standard UV-K1 and the UV-K1(8), with specifications suggesting incremental improvements over its predecessor.
Physical Design and Build
The UV-K1 maintains a familiar form factor with a 1.44-inch display, full numeric keypad, and dedicated PTT key. The radio features a textured rear panel for improved grip and includes a hand strap hole for secure carrying. Both variants support interchangeable battery options, with the standard UV-K1 accommodating a 1400mAh/2500mAh battery configuration (short: 98×59×33.8mm, long: 120.3×59×35.8mm), while the UV-K1(8) supports slightly different dimensions (short: 100.8×56.7×33.8mm, long: 123×56.7×35.8mm). An optional extended 2600mAh/2700mAh battery is also available.
The radio includes Type-C USB charging and programming capability, replacing older USB standards and enabling faster charging through compatible base units.
Technical Specifications
Both variants operate across the VHF/UHF spectrum (136-174MHz/400-470MHz) with a maximum output power of 5W. The transmitter specifications include:
- Maximum deviation: ≤5KHz(25KHz), ≤2.5KHz(12.5KHz)
- Modulation distortion: ≤5%
- Stray power: ≤7.5μW
- Adjacent channel power: 70dB(25KHz), 60dB(12.5KHz)
- Residual modulation: 40dB
Receiver sensitivity varies by band, ranging from -121dBm to -123dBm across the frequency ranges, with FM radio reception covering 20 channels. The radio supports both FM (12dB SINAD) and WFM/AM modes with appropriate sensitivity ratings.
Feature Set
The UV-K1 includes a comprehensive feature list suitable for amateur radio operations:
- 200 memory channels with editable channel names
- 10 NOAA weather channels
- Multi-band transmitting and receiving capability
- Cross-band intercom and wireless radio replication
- DTMF, DTMF ANI, and selective calling functions
- Reverse frequency and offset frequency settings
- Voice prompt and automatic/manual emergency alarm
- Wide/narrow bandwidth selection (25KHz/12.5KHz modulation)
- Multi-scan functionality and busy channel lock
- PC programmable via USB
The radio operates from -20°C to +60°C with a 50Ω antenna impedance. Audio output is rated at ≥0.5W with ≤10% distortion.
The UV-K5 Legacy
The UV-K1 follows the Quansheng TK11 and the Quansheng UV-K5, which gained significant traction within the amateur radio community not only for its performance and price point but also for its openness to custom firmware development. The UV-K5 became a platform for experimentation, with enthusiasts developing enhanced firmware that expanded functionality beyond the stock configuration. This community-driven development added features and refinements that demonstrated the potential of accessible, modifiable radio platforms.
Whether the UV-K1 will prove similarly amenable to custom firmware development remains to be seen, but given Quansheng’s track record and the architectural similarities, there’s reason for cautious optimism among those interested in firmware modification.
Availability
Standard accessories include a choice of long or short batteries, base charger, antenna, belt clip, and hand strap. Optional accessories comprise headset, speaker/microphone, and USB charging cable. The radio will be available through Quansheng Electronics and their distribution network.
As with any new equipment announcement, final specifications and performance characteristics should be verified upon release. Operators interested in the UV-K1 series will want to watch for independent reviews and measurements once units reach the market.
Gallery
Video
Specifications
| Bands: | 2m / 70cm / Airband RX / NOAA Weather RX |
|---|---|
| Modes: | AM, FM |
| Memory channels: | 200 |
Features
CTCSS / DCS / DTMF / Flashlight / Programmable Buttons / Scan / Speaker / Split Operation / Timeout Timer / USB Charging / VOX
Transmitter
| Minimum RF output (watts): | 1 |
|---|---|
| Maximum RF output (watts): | 5 |
Power
| Battery voltage: | 7.4 |
|---|---|
| Battery capacity (mAh): | 1400/2500 |
Physical
| Width (mm): | 56.7 |
|---|---|
| Height (mm): | 100.8 |
| Depth (mm): | 33.8 |
| Weight (g): | 210 |
| Connectors: | SMA, Microphone, Speaker Out, USB Port |
Meta
| Also known as: | Quansheng UV-K1(8), Quansheng Mini Kong |
|---|---|
| Year of release: | 2025 |
| Related radios: | Quansheng Taiko Kong TK11, Quansheng UV-K5, |
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