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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng GT-5R vs Quansheng TK11

Our pick

Quansheng TK11$96.99

The Baofeng GT-5R is the clear winner for most amateur radio operators. The most important differentiator is value for money. Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, making their core specifications effectively equivalent. However, the GT-5R costs $20 versus the TK11's $97, and RadioRanked's overall score of 69 versus 33 reflects this dramatic difference in listed specifications per dollar spent. The GT-5R also offers CHIRP compatibility for easier programming and is lighter at 227 grams. While we lack the TK11's transmit power specification, this gap in our data doesn't change the value equation.

The GT-5R's owner rating of 4.4 from 1,145 reviews provides substantial buyer feedback indicating satisfaction, whereas the TK11's 4.2 rating comes from only 15 reviews, offering limited evidence. Buy the Baofeng GT-5R if you want a budget-friendly entry point with solid reported user satisfaction. Buy the Quansheng TK11 only if you have specific performance requirements we cannot verify from available specifications, or if you've confirmed its missing power rating meets your needs.

Get the Baofeng GT-5R.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New licensee on a tight budget

    Costs less and scores higher on beginner-friendliness, making it the stronger starting point.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band
  • Hiker doing POTA portable operations

    Weighs less at 227 grams, which matters more for backpack-carried portable operating.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band
  • Operator storing many frequencies

    Offers 999 memory channels against 128, suiting users who store many frequencies.

    TK11
  • Club loaner or backup radio pool

    Low purchase cost makes it easier to replace if lost or damaged.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band
  • Buyer exploring digital modes like DMR

    Neither supports digital modes, but CHIRP programming and a higher feature score favor the Baofeng.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng GT-5R

  • 57g lighter (227g vs 284g)

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 8x more memory channels (999 vs 128)
  • 67% more battery (3000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng GT-5RSpecQuansheng TK11
—
Price
$96.99
49
Overall Score
39
+25% for winner
4.00W
TX Power (High)
—
128
Memory Channels
999
7.7× difference
227g
Weight
284g
+25% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+67% for winner
LCD
Display
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
1PCS
size
Medium
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
GT 5R
Model Number
UV-K5
BAOFENG GT-5R Ham Radio x 1, Battery x 1, Belt Clip x 1, Hand Strap x 1, Desktop Charger & Adapter x 1, Headset x 1
Built-In Media
Handheld Radio
144 - 148 MHz
Frequency Range
350-490 MHz
Baofeng UV-5R series accessories
Compatible Devices
Smartphone
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
This item can be returned in its original condition for a refund or replacement within 30 days of receipt.
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng GT-5RPICK

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Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

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