RadioRanked verdict
Updated Sep 2026Baofeng 5RM vs Radtel RT-920
Our pick
Baofeng 5RM$25.99
The Baofeng 5RM is the clear winner for most users.
The most important differentiator is price combined with specifications. The 5RM costs $21 less while delivering better listed specs for the money, reflected in its RadioRanked score of 76 versus the RT-920's 63. The 5RM offers 2 watts more transmit power and CHIRP programmability, which matters for users who want easier frequency management. Both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS, so they compete on equal footing there. Owner ratings are effectively tied at 4.4 versus 4.3 stars, though the 5RM's rating comes from substantially more reviews (720 versus 119), giving it stronger buyer evidence.
The Baofeng 5RM suits budget-conscious operators and those who value CHIRP compatibility for flexible programming. The RT-920 makes sense only if you have specific reasons to prefer its feature set or have had positive experiences with Radtel products, but the data doesn't support paying the premium.
Buy the Baofeng 5RM unless you have particular requirements the RT-920 addresses. It delivers better listed specifications at a significantly lower price with more owner feedback to back it up.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time, budget-conscious beginner
Its lower price point and high channel count make it ideal for learning the hobby.
Baofeng 5RMPortable operations and emergency preparedness
The higher power output and robust features are better suited for emergency use cases.
Baofeng 5RMField operator needing Bluetooth connectivity
The integrated Bluetooth feature offers convenient connectivity for field use.
RT-920Beginner exploring ham radio on a budget
Its wide-band monitoring capability is excellent for initial exploration of the spectrum.
RT-920Operator needing maximum channel capacity
With 999 channels, the Baofeng offers superior memory capacity for complex setups.
Baofeng 5RM
Reasons to choose Baofeng 5RM
- 45% cheaper ($25.99 vs $47.04)
- 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
- 4% more memory channels (999 vs 960)
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- IP65 water resistance
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng 5RMPICK
$25.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-920
$47.04 on AmazonKeep researching
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