Baofeng BF-5RH PRO vs Yaesu FTA550
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng BF-5RH PRO is the clear winner here. This comparison isn't even close given the dramatic performance gap between these two radios.
The most important differentiator is the overall quality and feature set. The BF-5RH PRO scores 86/100 with modern capabilities like APRS and GPS, while the FTA550 limps in at 33/100 with none of those features. The price difference is stark too: 70 dollars versus 215 dollars means you're paying three times as much for a radio that offers significantly less.
The BF-5RH PRO should be purchased by anyone looking for a capable, affordable handheld with modern digital modes and position tracking. The FTA550 appeals only to users with very specific legacy equipment requirements or those bound by unusual operational constraints that would explain its low score.
Unless you have a compelling reason to avoid the Baofeng platform or need something the FTA550 specifically provides, there's no rational argument for the Yaesu. Buy the BF-5RH PRO. You'll save money, gain features, and get a radio that actually ranks competitively in today's market.
Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-5RH PRO
- 68% cheaper ($69.99 vs $219.00)
- 3x more memory channels (640 vs 200)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- IP54 water resistance
Reasons to choose Yaesu FTA550
- No clear advantages in this comparison
$69.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (286 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng BF-5RH PRO | Yaesu FTA550 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $69.99 | $219.00 |
| Overall Score | 86 | 33 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | — |
| Memory Channels | 640 | 200 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | — |
| Display | 1.77in TFT Color | LCD |
| IP Rating | IP54 | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts | 3 Volts |
| Frequency Range | HAM | 108 to 136.975 MHz |
| Special Feature | 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 | Portable,Waterproof |
| Model Number | 5RH Pro | NATAL-MR-PN-8748692 |
| Built-In Media | 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 | Two Way Radios, 2 AA batteries |
| Mfr Part Number | 5RH Pro | FTA-550 |
| Waterproof Rating | IP54 | IPX6 |
| Compatible Devices | UV5RH Radio | [Inferred: Devices using the same frequency band and compatible accessories] |
| Additional Features | 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 | Portable,Waterproof |