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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng GT-5R vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng GT-5R$19.99

The Baofeng GT-5R is the clear winner for most users. Both radios lack the same advanced features—no DMR, APRS, or GPS on either—but the GT-5R delivers better listed specifications for the money, reflected in its 69 versus 52 overall score.

The single most important differentiator is price and value. The GT-5R costs $20 versus $74 for the Radtel, a substantial gap, while offering known 6W transmit power and CHIRP compatibility. The Radtel's transmit power and weight are unknown, which limits our ability to compare specs directly, but we have no evidence it outperforms the Baofeng to justify the cost premium.

Owner feedback slightly favors the GT-5R, with 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,145 reviews versus 4.3 from 207 reviews for the Radtel. The GT-5R's larger review base provides stronger buyer signal.

The GT-5R is the practical choice for budget-conscious operators or those building a radio collection. The Radtel might appeal only if you specifically need features or performance characteristics not evident in the published specs, though you'd want to verify them with the manufacturer first.

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

  • 69% cheaper ($19.99 vs $65.12)
  • 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
$19.99
Price
$65.12
69
Overall Score
54
+28% for winner
6.00W
TX Power (High)
—
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
227g
Weight
—
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

$19.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$65.12 on Amazon

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