Baofeng AR-5RM vs Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng BF-5RH PRO is the clear winner for most users. It delivers significantly more capability for a reasonable price premium, with a 21-point higher overall score reflecting real-world advantages.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The BF-5RH PRO adds APRS and GPS functionality, transforming it from a basic FM radio into a capable digital communications platform. The AR-5RM remains an opaque product with unknown transmit power and weight specifications, which is a red flag for a potential buyer. The BF-5RH PRO's 10W output and confirmed specifications provide confidence in what you're purchasing.
The AR-5RM makes sense only as a disposable beater radio or if you need absolute minimum cost with zero feature requirements. The BF-5RH PRO is the pragmatic choice for any amateur radio operator wanting a functional handheld with modern capabilities and known specifications.
We recommend the Baofeng BF-5RH PRO for virtually all hobbyists. At $70, it's still budget-friendly while providing the GPS, APRS, and known power output that justify its higher score and price. Skip the AR-5RM unless circumstances force you to the absolute bottom tier.
Reasons to choose Baofeng AR-5RM
- 63% cheaper ($25.99 vs $69.99)
- 56% more memory channels (999 vs 640)
Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
- IP54 water resistance
$69.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (286 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng AR-5RM | Baofeng BF-5RH PRO |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $25.99 | $69.99 |
| Overall Score | 65 | 86 |
| TX Power (High) | — | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 | 640 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | — | 2500 mAh |
| Display | — | 1.77in TFT Color |
| IP Rating | — | IP54 |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Frequency Range | VHF UHF | HAM |
| Special Feature | Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver | Battery Saver Mode, GPS/APRS, Emergency Alarm,1.77 TFT in Color Screen, 640 Channels in 10 Zone, AM/FM/VHF/1.25M/UHF, Multi-band,FM,Suitable for Survival Gear, One Key Frquency Copy, Weather Alert |
| Compatible Devices | AM,FM Receiver | UV5RH Radio |
| Included Components | 1 X Earpiece & 1 X Clip, 1 X Radio, 1X Type-c Cable & 1 X Base Charger, Antenna, Battery | 1× CH340 Programming Cable, 2X Earpiece with mic ,2x Belt clip,2 x Hand strap, 2×18.89 inch Tactical Antennas,2×805S Antennas, 2×Original antenna,2× AirBand antenna, 2×BF-5RH Pro Ham Radio Handheld,2×2500mAh USB-C Battery, 2×USB-C charger with cable, 1 x Hand Strap 1 x User's Manual |
| Model Number | AR-5RM | 5RH Pro |
| Built-In Media | 1 X Earpiece & 1 X Clip, 1 X Radio, 1X Type-c Cable & 1 X Base Charger, Antenna, Battery | 1× CH340 Programming Cable, 2X Earpiece with mic ,2x Belt clip,2 x Hand strap, 2×18.89 inch Tactical Antennas,2×805S Antennas, 2×Original antenna,2× AirBand antenna, 2×BF-5RH Pro Ham Radio Handheld,2×2500mAh USB-C Battery, 2×USB-C charger with cable, 1 x Hand Strap 1 x User's Manual |
| Additional Features | Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver | Battery Saver Mode, GPS/APRS, Emergency Alarm,1.77 TFT in Color Screen, 640 Channels in 10 Zone, AM/FM/VHF/1.25M/UHF, Multi-band,FM,Suitable for Survival Gear, One Key Frquency Copy, Weather Alert |
| Battery Average Life | 100 Hours | 72 Hours |
| Warranty Description | NO | 30-Day |
| Connectivity Protocol | Type-c | GPS |