RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus vs Baofeng UV-5R Plus
Our pick
AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus$249.99
The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is the clear winner for serious operators, though the choice depends on your budget and radio interests.
The single most important differentiator is digital mode support. The AnyTone includes DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities—essential features for modern amateur radio activity—while the Baofeng UV-5R Plus offers none of these. The AnyTone also delivers significantly more transmit power at 7 watts versus the Baofeng's unknown output, likely lower based on its budget positioning.
The Baofeng UV-5R Plus suits beginners on an extremely tight budget or those wanting a basic backup radio. Its lighter weight and CHIRP compatibility are minor advantages, but the radio lacks the features that define contemporary amateur radio.
The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is designed for operators ready to engage with modern digital networks and applications. Its features justify the substantial price premium.
Unless cost is your absolute constraint, the AnyTone is the better investment. It's futureproof and capable enough to grow with your ham radio interests, while the Baofeng represents outdated analog-only technology at a throwaway price point.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning basic operation
Its simpler controls and lower beginner complexity make it a gentler starting point for a new operator.
UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]Budget-constrained buyer wanting basic VHF and UHF
It costs far less while still covering both VHF and UHF bands for everyday local use.
UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]Emergency preparedness and backup communications kit
A low purchase cost makes it easy to stock several spare units for emergency backup comms.
UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]Intermediate operator wanting DMR digital access
It supports DMR and FM, giving access to digital talkgroups that the other radio cannot reach.
AT-D878UVII PlusField survey worker needing GPS and APRS
Built-in GPS and APRS support suit location-based field work and position reporting.
AT-D878UVII PlusOperator wanting a 7W transmitter and large memory
Its 7W transmit power and 4000-channel memory serve operators who need more output and channel capacity.
AT-D878UVII Plus
Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus
- 31x more memory channels (4,000 vs 128)
- 72% more battery (3100 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
- IP54 water resistance
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Plus
- 30g lighter (250g vs 280g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D878UVII PlusPICK
$249.99 on AmazonBaofeng UV-5R Plus
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