RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng AR-5RM vs Baofeng UV-28
The UV-28 is the clear winner for most buyers.
The single most important differentiator is features. The UV-28 adds GPS and Bluetooth to the AR-5RM's basic FM foundation, doubling the price but delivering genuine utility for location tracking and smartphone integration. The AR-5RM's specifications remain largely unknown, with transmit power and weight unspecified, making direct comparison impossible on fundamentals. Both radios support CHIRP programming and lack digital mode support.
Owners report differently on these radios. The AR-5RM has strong owner ratings from 1206 Amazon reviews at 4.5 out of 5, suggesting consistent satisfaction with what it offers. The UV-28 rates 4.1 out of 5, but from only 44 reviews, providing less statistical confidence about typical user experience.
Buy the AR-5RM if you want the absolute lowest entry price and a basic FM radio with solid owner feedback, accepting that you won't know its exact capabilities until you test one. Buy the UV-28 if you need GPS positioning and Bluetooth connectivity and can accept a smaller review base.
The AR-5RM wins on price and review volume. The UV-28 wins on specified features and capability. Your choice depends on whether those extra features justify the $20 premium for your use case.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious buyer testing the hobby first
It costs less, so a newcomer can try the hobby without a large upfront investment.
Baofeng AR-5RMBrand-new Technician licensee learning basic operation
Its simpler setup and higher beginner score suit someone learning fundamental radio skills.
Baofeng AR-5RMCasual simplex frequency monitoring at home
Monitoring local simplex channels needs little more than what this lower-cost radio already provides.
Baofeng AR-5RMSOTA or POTA summit activator
Its 10W transmit power, GPS, and Bluetooth suit field activations away from home base.
UV-28ARES or RACES emergency volunteer
The 10W output and higher feature score support coordination during emergency deployments.
UV-28Buyer wanting a rich feature set
It offers a much higher feature score with GPS and Bluetooth, which the other radio lacks.
UV-28
Reasons to choose Baofeng AR-5RM
- No clear advantages in this comparison
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng AR-5RM
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