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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng GT-5R vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng GT-5R$20.64

The Baofeng GT-5R is the clear winner here. Despite the Radtel RT-880's higher price point, it underperforms across nearly every measurable category. The GT-5R scores 17 points higher overall, offers confirmed 6W transmit power compared to the RT-880's unknown specifications, and supports CHIRP programming for easier frequency management. Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, so they're essentially equivalent on that front.

The single most important differentiator is the overall performance score, which reflects the GT-5R's superior build quality, reliability, and user experience that reviewers consistently validate.

The Baofeng GT-5R suits budget-conscious operators who want a dependable workhorse radio for basic VHF/UHF communications. The Radtel RT-880 might appeal only to operators with very specific needs not captured in standard metrics or those who already own Radtel ecosystem components.

Buy the GT-5R without hesitation. It delivers better performance at a quarter of the cost, making the RT-880 difficult to justify unless you have niche requirements. The GT-5R's CHIRP compatibility alone makes it significantly more user-friendly for frequency programming.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New hams starting their journey

    Its high beginner score and low cost make it an ideal, simple starting radio.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band
  • Experienced operator needing high channel count

    The superior 1024 channel memory is perfect for covering multiple regions.

    RT-880
  • Budget-conscious backup or loaner radio

    At under $20, it provides excellent basic functionality for minimal investment.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band
  • Technician needing reliable multi-band coverage

    Its robust design and high channel count support advanced, multi-region operations.

    RT-880
  • Portable operations or testing VHF/UHF

    It offers sufficient power and simplicity for basic portable simplex operations.

    GT-5R 5W Dual Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng GT-5R

  • 72% cheaper ($20.64 vs $74.00)
  • 58% more battery (3800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng GT-5RSpecRadtel RT-880
$20.64
Price
$74.00
69
Overall Score
52
+33% for winner
6.00W
TX Power (High)
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
3800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+59% for winner
LCD
Display
TFT Color
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
GT 5R
Model Number
RT-880
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
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
144 - 148 MHz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Baofeng UV-5R series accessories
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
3.78"D x 4.29"W x 7.17"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng GT-5RPICK

$20.64 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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