Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Baofeng BF-5RH PRO vs Yaesu FT-65R

Our pick

Baofeng BF-5RH PRO$69.99

The Baofeng BF-5RH PRO is the clear winner in this matchup. It outperforms the Yaesu across nearly every metric that matters to modern amateur operators.

The single most important differentiator is feature richness versus price. The BF-5RH Pro delivers twice the transmit power, integrated GPS and APRS capabilities, and a significantly higher overall score, all while costing less than half the price of the Yaesu. The FT-65R's only tangible advantage is its known weight specification and Yaesu's brand reputation for durability, but these don't justify its premium pricing or feature deficit.

The BF-5RH Pro should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want modern capabilities like APRS tracking and GPS functionality without breaking the bank. The FT-65R is best suited for users who specifically value Yaesu's proven build quality and service network enough to accept paying more for fewer features.

We recommend the Baofeng BF-5RH Pro for virtually every amateur radio operator shopping in this price range. You get superior specifications, essential modern features, and exceptional value. Only consider the Yaesu if brand loyalty or long-term support availability outweighs your priorities.

Winner
Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
Runner-up
Yaesu FT-65R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious operator needing many features

    The BF-5RH PRO offers significantly more features and channels for less money.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
  • New operator needing simple, reliable analog comms

    The Yaesu is designed for beginners and provides reliable, straightforward analog operation.

    FT-65R
  • Advanced field ops needing APRS and GPS integration

    Its built-in APRS and GPS make it superior for complex field deployments.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
  • Operator prioritizing proven Japanese build quality

    The Yaesu brand reputation offers peace of mind for critical communications.

    FT-65R
  • Operator needing high channel capacity for large groups

    With 640 channels, the Baofeng handles much larger operational channel requirements.

    Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-5RH PRO

  • 65% cheaper ($69.99 vs $199.95)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 3x more memory channels (640 vs 200)
  • 28% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1950 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-65R

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng BF-5RH PROSpecYaesu FT-65R
$69.99
Price
$199.95
87
Overall Score
52
+67% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
640
Memory Channels
200
3.2× difference
Weight
215g
2500 mAh
Battery
1950 mAh
+28% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
LCD
IP54
IP Rating
IP54
Authorized
FCC Authorization
Authorized
Black
color
Clear
Black
Color
Clear
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
5RH Pro
Model Number
FT-65R
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
1950mAh Li-ion battery pack, 2.5-hour Rapid Charger, optional 2500mAh Li-ion battery pack, and 7.4V lithium-ion battery
5RH Pro
Mfr Part Number
FT-65R
IP54
Waterproof Rating
IP54
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
Uhf
72 Hours
Battery Average Life
9 Hours

Made your choice?

Baofeng BF-5RH PROPICK

$69.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-65R

$199.95 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons