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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

AnyTone AT-D890UV vs Baofeng UV-5R

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5R$15.97

The Baofeng UV-5R is the clear winner for most users. Despite the AnyTone's DMR capability and higher price point, the Baofeng delivers superior overall value with nearly double the performance score, genuine CHIRP software support, and documented specifications across all key metrics. The AnyTone suffers from missing critical information—unknown transmit power and weight—which raises red flags about incomplete product documentation and support.

The single most important differentiator is the Baofeng's dramatically lower price combined with its higher overall score. At sixteen dollars versus two hundred ninety-nine, the UV-5R offers proven reliability and user support that the AnyTone cannot justify.

The UV-5R suits newcomers, budget-conscious operators, and anyone seeking a dependable starter radio with excellent community documentation. The AnyTone appeals only to operators specifically requiring DMR capability and willing to accept incomplete specifications and support gaps. For nearly everyone else, spend the sixteen dollars on the Baofeng and invest the savings elsewhere in your station setup.

Runner-up
AnyTone AT-D890UV

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner exploring ham radio basics

    Its extremely low cost and simple operation make it perfect for initial experimentation.

    UV-5R
  • Advanced operator needing DMR capability

    The built-in DMR support and advanced features meet complex networking needs.

    AT-D890UV
  • Budget-conscious local repeater monitoring

    It offers sufficient local functionality without requiring a significant financial investment.

    UV-5R
  • Emergency communications and net operations

    Its robust feature set and focus on emergency nets make it reliable for critical comms.

    AT-D890UV
  • New licensee needing basic field work

    It provides enough basic functionality for learning without overwhelming the user.

    UV-5R

Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D890UV

  • 31x more memory channels (4,000 vs 128)
  • 72% more battery (3100 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R

  • 95% cheaper ($15.97 vs $299.00)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D890UVSpecBaofeng UV-5R
$299.00
Price
$15.97
50
Overall Score
69
+39% for winner
TX Power (High)
5.00W
4000
Memory Channels
128
33.3× difference
Weight
250g
3100 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
+72% for winner
Color LCD
Display
LCD
Covers a wireless feature only (Part 15C)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Blue
color
Blue
1
unitCount
1
850067124405
UPC
653391505106
Blue
Color
Blue
7.4 Volts
Voltage
4 Volts
AT-D890UV
Model Number
Baofeng UV-5R+ blue
Power Supply
Built-In Media
1 x BaoFeng UV-5R Two-Way Radio 1 x 7.4V 1800mAh Li-ion Battery Pack 1 x Antenna 1 x Earphone Mic/Headset 1 x Belt Clip 1 x Hand Strap 1 x ENG Manual 1 x Adapter 1 x Desktop Charger
AT-D890UV
Mfr Part Number
2698812239
Digital Display
Additional Features
Keypad Lock
1 Year
Warranty Description
No
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D890UV

$299.00 on Amazon

Baofeng UV-5RPICK

$15.97 on Amazon

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