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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng AR-5RM vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

Our pick

Baofeng AR-5RM$21.84

# Verdict: Baofeng AR-5RM vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

The Baofeng AR-5RM is the clear winner here, though this comparison reveals an unusual situation. The AR-5RM's decisive advantage is its overall score of 65/100 versus the KG-UV9D Plus's disappointing 33/100, making this a straightforward choice despite the price difference.

The single most important differentiator is the overall performance rating. The AR-5RM delivers substantially better functionality and reliability for less than one-seventh the cost. While the Wouxun offers confirmed 5W transmit power and slightly better build quality expectations at its price point, these advantages don't compensate for its poor performance evaluation.

The Baofeng AR-5RM suits budget-conscious operators who want basic reliable performance without premium pricing. The Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus appeals only to collectors or those with specific legacy compatibility needs, though its low score suggests this is not a strong choice for most users.

Given the stark performance gap and massive price difference, the Baofeng AR-5RM is the recommended purchase for virtually any amateur radio operator. The KG-UV9D Plus's higher cost paired with lower ratings makes it difficult to justify unless you have unique requirements not reflected in these specs.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner learning basic radio skills

    Its extremely low cost and beginner-friendly features make it ideal for starting out.

    Baofeng AR-5RM
  • Technician needing reliable analog VHF/UHF comms

    The Wouxun offers solid, reliable analog performance for basic field communication.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Budget-conscious hams monitoring airband

    The AR-5RM is incredibly cheap, perfect for casual monitoring without breaking the bank.

    Baofeng AR-5RM
  • Experienced operator needing reliable analog power

    The Wouxun provides better transmit power and stability for serious analog field use.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Ham needing a simple, portable monitoring tool

    Its small size and low cost make it a perfect, simple monitoring companion.

    Baofeng AR-5RM

Reasons to choose Baofeng AR-5RM

  • 88% cheaper ($21.84 vs $179.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng AR-5RMSpecWouxun KG-UV9D Plus
$21.84
Price
$179.99
65
Overall Score
35
+85% for winner
TX Power (High)
5.00W
999
Memory Channels
999
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF
AR-5RM
Model Number
KG UV9D Plus
VHF UHF
Frequency Range
136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz
AM,FM Receiver
Compatible Devices
RM
Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver
Additional Features
Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater
1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)
Number of Batteries
1 A batteries required. (included)
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng AR-5RMPICK

$21.84 on Amazon

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

$179.99 on Amazon

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