RadioRanked verdict
Updated Sep 2026AnyTone AT-D890UV vs Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
Our pick
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band$33.99
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?
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-BandExperienced ham needing DMR digital comms
The AT-D890UV offers advanced DMR features and robust performance for serious networking.
AT-D890UVBudget-conscious prepper or emergency net user
It provides essential, reliable communication features without requiring a large initial investment.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandAdvanced operator running large talk groups
Its high channel count and focus on large nets are ideal for regional emergency communication.
AT-D890UVOperator 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
- 89% cheaper ($33.99 vs $299.00)
- 3g lighter (290g vs 293g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D890UV
$299.00 on AmazonBaofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK
$33.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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