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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

AnyTone AT-D890UV vs Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band$25.99

The Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band is the clear winner for most amateur operators. Despite the AnyTone's superior price positioning, the K5 Plus delivers dramatically better value through its lower cost, higher overall score, and practical CHIRP compatibility for easy programming.

The single most important differentiator is price combined with usability. At just $26 versus $299, the K5 Plus costs a fraction of the AnyTone while scoring 20 points higher. The K5's CHIRP support eliminates tedious manual frequency entry, a genuine productivity advantage the AnyTone completely lacks.

The AnyTone AT-D890UV suits users specifically requiring DMR digital mode capability and willing to pay for it, though the missing TX power specification raises quality control concerns. The Baofeng K5 Plus is ideal for budget-conscious operators, beginners, and anyone prioritizing practical ease of use and multi-band VHF/UHF coverage.

We recommend the Baofeng K5 Plus for virtually all buyers. It delivers the better operator experience at an unbeatable price point. The AnyTone occupies a niche for DMR enthusiasts only, yet even they should investigate whether its incomplete specifications and lower reliability score justify the premium.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New amateur radio licensee starting out

    Its low cost and tri-band capability make it perfect for learning multiple bands affordably.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Experienced ham needing DMR digital comms

    The AT-D890UV offers advanced DMR features and robust performance for serious networking.

    AT-D890UV
  • Budget-conscious prepper or emergency net user

    It provides essential, reliable communication features without requiring a large initial investment.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Advanced operator running large talk groups

    Its high channel count and focus on large nets are ideal for regional emergency communication.

    AT-D890UV
  • Operator needing basic, simple functionality

    The K5 Plus is simple to operate and provides enough basic functionality for casual use.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

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

  • 91% cheaper ($25.99 vs $299.00)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D890UVSpecBaofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
$299.00
Price
$25.99
50
Overall Score
68
+35% for winner
TX Power (High)
10.00W
4000
Memory Channels
999
4.0× difference
3100 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+23% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Covers a wireless feature only (Part 15C)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Blue
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Blue
Color
Black
5 Pounds
Item Weight
16 ounces
AT-D890UV
Model Number
K5PLUS
Power Supply
Built-In Media
2500mAh Battery x 1, BAOFENG K5PLUS Two Way Radio x 1, Earpice x 1; Belt Clip x 1; Lanyard x 1, Speaker Mic x 1; USB-C Charging Cable x 1, Standard ANT x 1; Long ANT x 1
UHF, VHF
Frequency Range
UHF VHF 1.25M
Digital Display
Additional Features
Channel Clone, Digital Display, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
1 Year
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D890UV

$299.00 on Amazon

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK

$25.99 on Amazon

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