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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng 5RM vs Radtel RT-470X

Our pick

Baofeng 5RM$25.99

The Baofeng 5RM is the clear winner here. Both radios are budget-friendly entry-level handhelds with nearly identical pricing and feature sets, but the 5RM pulls ahead with a documented 10W transmit power compared to the RT-470X's unspecified output. Known specifications matter significantly in radio selection, and that transparency is the single most important differentiator between these two models.

The Baofeng 5RM should appeal to beginners who want a reliable, affordable starter radio with confirmed power output and solid overall performance metrics. The Radtel RT-470X might interest someone willing to gamble on a lesser-known brand, though the incomplete specifications raise questions about manufacturer documentation and support.

For anyone shopping at this price point, go with the Baofeng 5RM. Its 73/100 score, confirmed 10W output, and CHIRP compatibility make it the safer choice for learning the hobby. The marginal cost difference of one dollar means you're not sacrificing anything by choosing the better-documented option. Avoid the RT-470X unless you specifically need something the 5RM cannot provide, which isn't apparent from the available data.

Winner
Baofeng 5RM
Runner-up
Radtel RT-470X

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner needing maximum features

    Its higher channel count and beginner score make it ideal for learning the hobby.

    Baofeng 5RM
  • Casual local simplex communication

    The Radtel is perfectly suited for simple, local, and non-repeater operations.

    RT-470X
  • Budget-conscious operator needing maximum coverage

    The Baofeng offers a higher channel count at a lower price point for broad use.

    Baofeng 5RM
  • Operator focused on multi-band receiving

    The Radtel's specific focus makes it a strong choice for multi-band reception needs.

    RT-470X
  • Emergency preparedness and prepper use cases

    Its robust feature set and high channel count are beneficial for emergency readiness.

    Baofeng 5RM

Reasons to choose Baofeng 5RM

  • 21% cheaper ($25.99 vs $32.99)
  • 4x more memory channels (999 vs 256)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X

  • 12% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2500 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng 5RMSpecRadtel RT-470X
$25.99
Price
$32.99
76
Overall Score
66
+15% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
999
Memory Channels
256
3.8× difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2800 mAh
+12% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
1.77in TFT Color
IP65
IP Rating
IP54
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
VHF/1.25M/UHF
Tuner Type
FM/AM
5RM
Model Number
RT-470X
1X 5RM radio, 1X charging base station, 1X Type C charging cable, 1X 6.1" antenna, 1X 15.12" 771 antenna, 1X 2500mAh battery, 1X handset with mic, 1X Belt, 1X hand strap, 1X user manual
Built-In Media
1x Radtel RT-470X Ham Radio,1x 2800mAh Type-C Battery, 1x 7.87-inch Dual Band 145/435 Antenna, 1x 39-inch USB-C Charger Cable, 1x Belt Clip with Metal Piece, 1x English User Manual,1x AC Power Adapter with USB Port (FCC ID: 2AZSA-RT470X)
144-174MHz, 420-470MH
Frequency Range
144-148/420-450Mhz
5RM
Mfr Part Number
RT-470X
IP65
Waterproof Rating
IP54
BF-F8HP Pro, BaoFeng AR-5RM, BaoFeng UV-5R, baofeng k5 plus, weather radio
Compatible Devices
K-connector
1.77inch colour screen, 10W power, Frequency copy, USB C charging
Additional Features
Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency
48 Hours
Battery Average Life
8 Hours

Made your choice?

Baofeng 5RMPICK

$25.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-470X

$32.99 on Amazon

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