RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng 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 BandHiker doing POTA portable operations
Weighs less at 227 grams, which matters more for backpack-carried portable operating.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandOperator storing many frequencies
Offers 999 memory channels against 128, suiting users who store many frequencies.
TK11Club loaner or backup radio pool
Low purchase cost makes it easier to replace if lost or damaged.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandBuyer 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
Made your choice?
Baofeng GT-5RPICK
Search on AmazonQuansheng TK11
$96.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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