Baofeng BF-F8HP vs Baofeng UV-5R
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The BF-F8HP is the clear winner for most users. While the UV-5R costs 16 dollars less, the extra investment in the BF-F8HP delivers meaningful advantages that justify the premium.
The single most important differentiator is transmit power. The BF-F8HP's confirmed 10-watt output versus the UV-5R's unknown specification provides substantially better range and reliability in the field. This alone makes the BF-F8HP more capable for serious amateur radio work.
The BF-F8HP also includes GPS functionality, adding value for emergency communication and location tracking scenarios. The UV-5R's CHIRP compatibility is its one advantage, offering easier programming through computer software, but this is a convenience factor rather than operational capability.
The UV-5R makes sense only for budget-conscious hobbyists doing casual local communication who already own CHIRP-compatible equipment. The BF-F8HP suits anyone wanting reliable performance, stronger transmit capability, and useful GPS features without breaking the bank.
Buy the BF-F8HP. The modest price difference combined with superior specs and higher overall score make it the smarter choice for virtually any amateur radio application.
Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-F8HP
- 8x more memory channels (1,000 vs 128)
- 17% more battery (2100 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R
- 36% cheaper ($28.99 vs $45.00)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
$45.00 on Amazon
★ 4.5 (15,351 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng BF-F8HP | Baofeng UV-5R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $45.00 | $28.99 |
| Overall Score | 75 | 63 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | — |
| Memory Channels | 1000 | 128 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2100 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts | 7.4 Volts |
| Special Feature | Only BaoFeng Tech is Authorized to Resell, Software and Downloads Available at: https://baofengtech.com/bf-f8hp | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range |
| Product Dimensions | 2"D x 2"W x 10.5"H | 1"D x 2"W x 5"H |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof | Water Resistant |
| UPC | 701748708974 | 713923481886 |
| Tuner Type | UHF, VHF | UHF,VHF |
| Item Weight | 10.1 Ounces | 0.01 Ounces |
| Model Number | BF-F8HP | BF-UV5R |
| Built-In Media | baofeng | 1 X BAOFENG UV-5R Ham Radio, 1 X Baofeng Programming Cable,1 X Walkie Talkie Earpiece, 1 X Long Antenna,1 X Standard Antenna, 1 XBaofeng Desktop Charger,1 X Hand strap, 1 X Belt clip, 2 X Battery,1 X Hand Speaker Mic |
| Mfr Part Number | BF-F8HP | BF-UV5R |
| Compatible Devices | Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, and other devices operating on VHF (136-174 MHz) or UHF (400-520 MHz) frequencies, as well as accessories compatible with the UV-5R. | baofeng radio handheld ham radio |
| Additional Features | Only BaoFeng Tech is Authorized to Resell, Software and Downloads Available at: https://baofengtech.com/bf-f8hp | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range |
| Battery Average Life | 18 Hours | 36 Hours |
| Warranty Description | 1 year | 30-day hassle-free return |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 2"D x 2"W x 10.5"H | 1"D x 2"W x 5"H |