RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Baofeng AR-5RM vs Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
Our pick
Baofeng UV-5RM Pro$59.99
The UV-5RM Pro is the clear winner for most users. While the AR-5RM's $26 price tag is tempting, you get what you pay for: missing specifications, no advanced features, and a 12-point score disadvantage.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The UV-5RM Pro includes APRS and GPS capabilities that the AR-5RM completely lacks. These features matter for emergency preparedness, location tracking, and digital operations. The UV-5RM Pro also specifies 10W of transmit power, while the AR-5RM leaves this critical spec unknown, raising reliability concerns.
The AR-5RM makes sense only for budget-conscious beginners who want programming via CHIRP and don't need advanced features. The UV-5RM Pro suits anyone who wants a capable all-purpose handheld with legitimate emergency and digital capabilities at a reasonable price point.
Our recommendation is the UV-5RM Pro. The additional $34 investment buys you meaningful functionality, known specifications, higher ratings, and better long-term value. Unless your budget is genuinely limited to under $30, the UV-5RM Pro's feature advantage justifies its cost.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Absolute beginner on a tight budget
The AR-5RM offers more channels and features for the lowest possible entry cost.
Baofeng AR-5RMField operations requiring GPS and APRS
The UV-5RM Pro's integrated GPS and APRS features make it ideal for field tracking.
UV-5RM Plus GPS HamCasual simplex monitoring and learning
The AR-5RM's massive channel memory is perfect for monitoring many frequencies.
Baofeng AR-5RMSOTA/POTA activations and outdoor camping
Its higher power output and dedicated field features suit outdoor activations better.
UV-5RM Plus GPS HamBuyer needing the most features for the price
The AR-5RM provides a vast feature set and channel count at an unmatched budget price.
Baofeng AR-5RMNew operator needing reliable field communication
The UV-5RM Pro's higher build quality and dedicated field features offer better reliability.
UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
Reasons to choose Baofeng AR-5RM
- 64% cheaper ($21.84 vs $59.99)
- 56% more memory channels (999 vs 640)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng AR-5RM
$21.84 on AmazonBaofeng UV-5RM ProPICK
$59.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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