Sporty's PJ2+ COM Aviation Handheld Radio with Easy-to-Read Oversized Screen
Quick take
Sporty’s PJ2+ is a VHF COM handheld designed for fast, no-fuss operation. It focuses on pilot usability with oversized backlit buttons and a straightforward “power on, set frequency, transmit” workflow, plus convenient power options for backup use (six AA batteries or USB-C input). The main buying caveat is that it’s not water resistant, so it’s best treated as an in-cockpit or flight-bag tool rather than a weatherproof outdoor radio.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Easy setup workflow, no complex menus (power on and enter your frequency).
- Designed for quick one-hand operation with large, tactile controls and an easy-to-read, backlit screen.
- Uses standard PJ headset plugs, avoiding the need for adapter-style setups.
- Flexible power: runs on six AA batteries, or you can use USB-C input for backup power.
- Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring airport communications.
Cons
- Not water resistant, so you’ll want to protect it from rain and wash conditions.
- Feature set is oriented toward essential COM needs, not deep advanced radio functionality.
- Battery management matters for long-term storage, since leaving batteries in unattended can be a problem.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence points to a clear theme: the PJ2+ feels straightforward in real-world use. Multiple reviewers describe it as doing the job for aircraft and ATC-style communications without fuss, with controls that are easy to understand even when you are focused on flying. Setup convenience is a recurring positive, especially for backup use, monitoring before departure, and quick headset swapping. Reviews also commonly highlight overall build quality, and many mention reliable audio through the headset connection and a practical range for handheld needs.
On limitations, the most consistent buyer-fit note is about battery handling for storage, because the radio relies on AA batteries. Beyond that, review evidence suggests the radio is best for pilots who want “basic handheld COM” rather than advanced features, which some buyers contrast with other options.
What you get, and how it’s built to be used
The PJ2+ is a compact VHF COM handheld aimed at pilots who want comms capability without spending time on complicated controls. It’s built around oversized, backlit visibility and large, tactile buttons that are easier to press while you are holding the radio. For headset compatibility, it uses standard PJ plugs, which reduces setup friction compared with radios that require adapter work.
Comfortable controls for hands-on COM work
If you have ever tried to tune a small radio while managing other cockpit tasks, the PJ2+ approach is simple: make the user interface large enough to be readable quickly and reachable while gripping the handheld. Reviewers repeatedly associate the device with ease of use, including situations where quick frequency changes or backup activation matters.
Power options that match backup-radio reality
Backup radios need to be ready, not complicated. The PJ2+ can run on six AA batteries, which are convenient for longer shelf life, and it also supports USB-C input for backup power. That gives you two practical paths depending on how you store your handheld and whether you want to power it from an external source.
One important practical consideration from buyer feedback: since it uses AA batteries, you should plan how you will manage them during storage and occasional use. If you leave batteries installed unattended for long periods, battery leakage can be an issue, so it’s smart to follow good storage habits.
Transmission power and monitoring
The PJ2+ is rated for up to 6 watts peak-emitting-power (PEP) for transmissions, and it includes extra listening convenience. There is a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack, which can be useful if you want to listen in to communications, such as airport broadcasts or monitoring while preparing for flight.
Pros and cons in plain language
Who it’s best for
- Pilots who want an uncomplicated COM handheld for everyday use and backup scenarios.
- Buyers who value readable, backlit controls and quick operation.
- People whose headsets already use PJ plugs and want to avoid adapter hassle.
- Anyone who wants the option to monitor communications through a 3.5mm headphone connection.
Who should skip it
- Anyone needing a water-resistant handheld for wet or harsh outdoor conditions.
- Shoppers looking for a highly advanced radio feature set beyond core COM needs.
- Buyers who do not want to think about battery storage and management for an AA-powered device.
Is Sporty’s PJ2+ worth it?
The PJ2+ is worth considering if your main goal is reliable VHF COM capability with fast operation. The combination of oversized backlit controls, PJ headset compatibility, and dual power options directly targets common handheld pain points: slow setup, hard-to-read displays, and inconvenient power management. If you want a more rugged, weather-ready radio or a more feature-heavy communications platform, you may want to look for alternatives aligned with those priorities.
FAQ
Is the Sporty’s PJ2+ COM radio difficult to program?
It’s designed around simple operation, focused on power on, set your intended frequency, and communicate without complex menu navigation. That approach is a major reason buyers describe it as easy to use.
Does the PJ2+ work with standard PJ headset plugs?
Yes. The radio is built with dual “PJ” headset plugs, which is meant to let you operate without needing additional adapters.
How does the PJ2+ get power?
It uses six AA batteries for handheld operation, and it also supports external power through a USB-C input for backup power use.
Is the PJ2+ water resistant?
No, it is not rated as water resistant. It’s best kept protected from rain and wet conditions.
Can I monitor airport communications with headphones?
Yes. The radio includes a dedicated 3.5mm headphone jack for listening into communications.
What range should I expect from this handheld radio?
It is specified as having a talking range up to about 10 miles. Actual range can vary based on conditions and installation factors, so treat it as an approximate maximum rather than a guarantee.
Specifications
| Product Title | Sporty's PJ2+ COM Aviation Handheld Radio with Easy-to-Read Oversized Screen |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Car & Vehicle Electronics > Aviation Electronics > Aviation Handheld Radios |
| Brand | Sporty's |
| Manufacturer | Sporty's |
| Model Number | PJ2+ COM |
| Color | Black |
| Item Weight | 12.8 ounces |
| Product Dimensions | 1.75"D x 2"W x 6"H |
| Number of Channels | 760 |
| Additional Features | 3.5mm headphone jack, 6 Watts of peak transmission power, Large backlit keypad, Standard PJ headset jacks, USB Type-C input for backup power |
| Frequency Range | 118-136.975 |
| Talking Range Maximum | 10 Mile |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Number of Batteries | 6 AA batteries required. |
| Compatible Devices | Aviation Headsets with PJ Plugs |
| Tuner Type | VHF |
| Connectivity Protocol | USB |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.75"D x 2"W x 6"H |
| Built-In Media | BNC Antenna, Belt Clip, USB-A to USB-C Power Cable, Wall Plug |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| UPC | 818612015134 |
| Mfr Part Number | PJ2+ COM |
| Warranty Description | If, during the first year, your PJ2+ COM Radio fails due to defective workmanship or parts under normal use, we will replace it or repair it at our option. |
| Special Feature | 3.5mm headphone jack, 6 Watts of peak transmission power, Large backlit keypad, Standard PJ headset jacks, USB Type-C input for backup power 3.5mm headphone jack, 6 Watts of peak transmission power, Large backlit keypad, Standard PJ headset jacks, USB Type-C input for backup power See more |
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