Baofeng 5RM vs Retevis A3

The Baofeng 5RM is the clear winner for most users. It offers substantially better listed specifications for the money, scoring 76 versus 27 overall, and backs this up with owner reports: 4.4 out of 5 stars from 720 Amazon reviewers compared to the Retevis A3's 3.6 from just 31 reviews. Both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities, so they're functionally equivalent on features. The 5RM's 10W transmit power is specified; we don't have the A3's power figure. The 5RM also supports CHIRP programming, making frequency management easier, while the A3 does not.

The single most important differentiator is price combined with owner satisfaction. At $26 versus $108, the 5RM costs a quarter as much while earning significantly higher ratings from a much larger owner base.

The Baofeng 5RM suits anyone looking for an affordable, straightforward handheld with solid owner support and easy programming. The Retevis A3 might appeal only to users who specifically need its 286g weight specification or prefer a particular form factor, though the limited owner feedback makes this a riskier choice.

Buy the Baofeng 5RM unless you have a specific reason to prefer the Retevis.