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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng BF-5RH PRO vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng BF-5RH PRO$70.45

The Baofeng BF-5RH PRO is the clear winner here. This isn't a close call.

The single most important differentiator is feature set versus price. The BF-5RH PRO costs only $4 more while delivering GPS and APRS capabilities that the RT-880 completely lacks. Beyond that, the BF-5RH PRO's overall score of 86 versus 52 tells you everything you need to know about build quality and usability. The BF-5RH PRO also supports CHIRP programming, giving you flexibility the RT-880 doesn't offer.

The BF-5RH PRO is ideal for anyone wanting a capable, affordable handheld with modern features like position tracking and digital mode support. The RT-880 might only appeal to someone on an extremely tight budget who values absolute simplicity and doesn't need any features beyond basic VHF/UHF communication, though even then the price savings are negligible.

Simply put, buy the Baofeng BF-5RH PRO. For just four dollars more, you get significantly better features, programming flexibility, and most importantly, a radio that actually works well according to real-world testing. The RT-880 doesn't justify its existence at this price point.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New beginner needing advanced features

    Its high beginner score and advanced features make learning easier.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
  • Experienced operator needing maximum channels

    The 1024 channel memory is ideal for covering multiple regions.

    RT-880
  • Emergency field operations needing reliability

    The IP54 rating and APRS support enhance field operational reliability.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
  • Budget buyer needing basic multi-band capability

    It offers advanced features and modes at a highly competitive price point.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
  • Technician needing simple analog VHF/UHF coverage

    It focuses purely on analog VHF/UHF, which is perfect for simple coverage.

    RT-880
  • Operator needing digital modes like APRS

    The inclusion of APRS and GPS makes it superior for modern digital operations.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

  • 5% cheaper ($70.45 vs $74.00)
  • 4% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP54 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 60% more memory channels (1,024 vs 640)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng BF-5RH PROSpecRadtel RT-880
$70.45
Price
$74.00
86
Overall Score
52
+67% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
640
Memory Channels
1024
+59% for winner
290g
Weight
2500 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+4% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
TFT Color
IP54
IP Rating
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
2
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.38 Volts
5RH Pro
Model Number
RT-880
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
Built-In Media
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
HAM
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
5RH Pro
Mfr Part Number
Programming Cable
UV5RH Radio
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
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
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
30-Day
Warranty Description
1 Year

Made your choice?

Baofeng BF-5RH PROPICK

$70.45 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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