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RadioRanked

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng BF-5RH PRO vs Retevis RA89

Our pick

Baofeng BF-5RH PRO$70.69

$70.69 on Amazon

The Baofeng BF-5RH PRO is the clear winner for anyone seeking a modern, feature-rich handheld radio at a reasonable price point.

The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The BF-5RH PRO includes GPS and APRS functionality, which the RA89 completely lacks. These features enable location tracking and messaging capabilities that significantly expand the radio's utility for emergency communication and outdoor activities. Additionally, the BF-5RH PRO's confirmed 10W transmission power provides stronger signal coverage than the RA89's unspecified output.

The BF-5RH PRO suits operators who want reliable performance with modern conveniences like GPS tracking and emergency location sharing. The RA89 is best suited only for budget-conscious buyers with minimal feature requirements who rarely transmit beyond basic local frequencies.

The BF-5RH PRO's 28-point advantage in overall score, superior feature set, and proven 10W power output justify its higher price. For most amateur radio operators, the additional $16 investment delivers substantially better value and capability. Only extreme budget constraints or absolute simplicity preference would make the RA89 the logical choice.

Winner
Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

$70.69

$70.69 on Amazon
See full review and specs
Runner-up
Retevis RA89
Retevis RA89

$67.49

$67.49 on Amazon
See full review and specs

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Strict budget buyer

    Costs less and is easier to program for a first purchase.

    Retevis RA89

  • First-time licensed hobbyist

    Simpler controls and CHIRP support make it the gentler first handheld to learn on.

    Retevis RA89

  • Wet weather field operator

    IP68 sealing resists submersion where the Baofeng's IP54 only handles splashes.

    Retevis RA89

  • APRS position reporting user

    APRS and GPS support give position reporting that the other radio cannot provide.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

  • Portable high-power operator

    The 10W output and 640 memory channels suit portable operators needing reach and capacity.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

  • 3x more memory channels (640 vs 200)
  • 5g lighter (290g vs 295g)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis RA89

  • 5% cheaper ($67.49 vs $70.69)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng BF-5RH PROSpecRetevis RA89
$70.69
Price
$67.49
79
Overall Score
53
+49% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
640
Memory Channels
200
3.2× difference
290g
Weight
295g
+2% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
LCD
IP54
IP Rating
IP68
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
5RH Pro
Model Number
RA89
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
1 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, User Manual
HAM
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
IP54
Waterproof Rating
IP68
UV5RH Radio
Compatible Devices
Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories
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
Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range
72 Hours
Battery Average Life
75 Hours
30-Day
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours

Made your choice?

Baofeng BF-5RH PROPICK

$70.69 on Amazon

Retevis RA89

$67.49 on Amazon

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