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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng 5RM vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

Baofeng 5RM$25.99

The Baofeng 5RM is the clear winner here. Despite costing one-fifth the price, it outscores the RT95 by a significant 20 points and offers a specified 10W of transmit power versus the RT95's unknown output. Neither radio distinguishes itself with advanced features like DMR, APRS, or GPS, so the comparison hinges on value and performance basics. Both support CHIRP programming, which is essential for efficient frequency management.

The single most important differentiator is the price-to-performance ratio. The 5RM delivers superior overall functionality at a fraction of the cost, making it objectively better value for money.

The Baofeng 5RM suits budget-conscious operators and beginners who want a reliable entry-level handheld without spending excessively. The Retevis RT95 might appeal to those specifically needing its particular form factor or build characteristics, though its lower score suggests it doesn't excel in any measurable way.

For virtually all use cases, the Baofeng 5RM is the rational choice. Its higher score, known power output, and dramatically lower price create an overwhelming case for recommendation. Only purchase the RT95 if you have specific requirements that data here cannot capture.

Winner
Baofeng 5RM
Runner-up
Retevis RT95

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its extremely low price point makes it the perfect entry point for learning the hobby.

    Baofeng 5RM
  • Mobile setup experimentation at home

    The dual-band capability and slightly higher price justify its use for home base stations.

    Retevis RT95
  • Emergency preparedness and preppers

    Its multi-band coverage and high channel count are ideal for varied emergency use cases.

    Baofeng 5RM
  • Amateur needing dual-band flexibility

    The dedicated dual-band feature makes the RT95 better suited for licensed amateur operations.

    Retevis RT95
  • Operator needing maximum channels for learning

    The massive 999 channel memory allows for extensive testing and repeater access.

    Baofeng 5RM

Reasons to choose Baofeng 5RM

  • 81% cheaper ($25.99 vs $139.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)
  • IP65 water resistance

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng 5RMSpecRetevis RT95
$25.99
Price
$139.99
76
Overall Score
49
+56% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
999
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
2500 mAh
Battery
1.77in TFT Color
Display
TFT Color
IP65
IP Rating
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
11
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
13.8 Volts
VHF/1.25M/UHF
Tuner Type
Dual band
5RM
Model Number
RT95
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
1 x RT95 Mobile radio, 1 x Power cable, 1 x Handheld mic, 1 x One pack of screw and accessories, 1 x User’s manual, 1 x Magnet Mount Antenna
144-174MHz, 420-470MH
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
5RM
Mfr Part Number
FA9129A-J9129A-C9058A
BF-F8HP Pro, BaoFeng AR-5RM, BaoFeng UV-5R, baofeng k5 plus, weather radio
Compatible Devices
Vehicle power supplies, microphones, external antennas, other two-way radios on the same frequency band
1.77inch colour screen, 10W power, Frequency copy, USB C charging
Additional Features
Dual Band, Dual Band Mobile Transceiver; Mobile Two Way Radio;Mobile Radio for RV Offroad 4x4, Emergency Alarm

Made your choice?

Baofeng 5RMPICK

$25.99 on Amazon

Retevis RT95

$139.99 on Amazon

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