RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng BF-5RH PRO vs Radtel RT-860
Our pick
Baofeng BF-5RH PRO$70.69
The BF-5RH PRO is the clear winner for most users.
The most important differentiator is features. The BF-5RH PRO includes GPS and APRS capability, making it suitable for location tracking and emergency beacon functions. The RT-860 offers none of these digital modes. We don't have the RT-860's transmit power specification, so direct power comparison isn't possible. Both lack CHIRP support, DMR, D-STAR, and C4FM. The BF-5RH PRO has an IP54 rating for weather resistance; the RT-860 lists no IP rating. Owners report the BF-5RH PRO at 4.5 out of 5 stars from 293 reviews, while the RT-860 scores 3.9 from 139 reviews.
The RT-860 appeals to budget-conscious users who need basic VHF/UHF coverage and don't require GPS or APRS functionality. The BF-5RH PRO suits users who want modern digital capabilities, better weather sealing, and strong owner satisfaction, accepting a higher price point.
Buy the BF-5RH PRO unless your budget is strictly limited and you need only simple two-way communication.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time technician licensee
Costs less and covers local VHF and UHF repeater and simplex use without advanced features to learn.
RT-860Emergency communications volunteer on ARES deployments
Its 10 watt output, 1.25m band, and IP54 rating suit deployment support in rough conditions.
Baofeng BF-5RH PROOperator wanting APRS position reporting in the field
Built-in APRS and GPS let it report position, which the other radio cannot do.
Baofeng BF-5RH PROClub member managing many local repeater channels
Its 1024-channel memory and lighter 255g body suit organizing many local repeater channels.
RT-860Portable summit activator prioritizing a lighter pack
At 255 grams it is lighter than the alternative, which weighs 290 grams.
RT-860Field operator needing a rugged handheld
IP54 dust and splash protection plus 10 watts make it the sturdier field choice.
Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
- 25% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
- IP54 water resistance
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860
- 45% cheaper ($39.00 vs $70.69)
- 60% more memory channels (1,024 vs 640)
- 35g lighter (255g vs 290g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng BF-5RH PROPICK
$70.69 on AmazonRadtel RT-860
$39.00 on AmazonKeep researching
Related Buying Guides
More head-to-heads