RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026AnyTone AT-D890UV vs Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
Our pick
AnyTone AT-D890UV$309.00
The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner for most buyers.
The single most important differentiator is price and value. At $26 versus $299, the K5 Plus costs roughly one-tenth as much while delivering better listed specifications for the money, reflected in its 67/100 overall score versus the AT-D890UV's 49/100. The K5 Plus offers CHIRP programming support and 10W transmit power; we lack the AT-D890UV's transmit power specification. Both radios weigh nearly identical amounts and lack GPS and APRS. The K5 Plus trades DMR capability for dramatically lower cost.
Owner feedback slightly favors the AnyTone, with 4.8/5 from 5 reviews versus the Baofeng's 4.4/5 from 216 reviews. However, the K5 Plus's vastly larger review sample provides more reliable buyer evidence, and 4.4/5 remains solid performance.
The AnyTone AT-D890UV suits users who specifically need DMR digital mode and can justify a premium price for it. The Baofeng K5 Plus should be the choice for budget-conscious operators, new users, or anyone wanting solid performance without the DMR requirement. For general handheld use, the K5 Plus offers exceptional value.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious entry-level hams
It costs far less than the AnyTone, making it the sensible starting point for a tight budget.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandNewly licensed amateur radio operators
Its simpler operation and higher beginner-friendliness suit someone still learning the basics of operating a radio.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandEmergency communications and ARES net volunteers
Its DMR capability and large 4000-channel memory fit organized nets and regional talk groups.
AT-D890UVOperators wanting digital voice modes
It offers DMR support and a higher feature score for operators who want multi-mode capability.
AT-D890UVLearning multiple bands on a small spend
It adds the 1.25m band and transmits at 10W while costing much less than the AnyTone.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandExperienced hobbyists seeking advanced features
Its higher feature score and DMR support better serve advanced operators who need more than basic functions.
AT-D890UV
Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D890UV
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- 24% more battery (3100 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
- 3g lighter (290g vs 293g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D890UV
$309.00 on AmazonBaofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK
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