RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng GT-5R vs Radtel RT-950 PRO
Our pick
Radtel RT-950 PRO$96.00
The RT-950 PRO is the clear winner for most users, despite its higher price point. The single most important differentiator is the feature set: the RT-950 PRO includes APRS and GPS capabilities, making it substantially more versatile for emergency communication, location sharing, and digital modes. The GT-5R compensates with significantly lower cost and higher transmit power, plus CHIRP compatibility for easy programming.
Buy the Baofeng GT-5R if you're a budget-conscious operator who primarily needs basic VHF/UHF voice communication and values the extra transmit wattage. Buy the Radtel RT-950 PRO if you want a modern radio with location tracking and APRS functionality, or if you're willing to invest in a more capable handheld for long-term use.
We recommend the RT-950 PRO for most operators. Its superior 75/100 overall score reflects genuine capability advantages that justify the $61 price difference. The APRS and GPS features prove invaluable in field operations and emergency scenarios. However, the GT-5R remains a solid choice for minimalists who need rock-solid reliability without spending much money.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning on a budget
Simple controls and a low price make it the easier starting point for a new licensee.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandClub loaner or backup radio buyer
Its low cost makes losing or damaging it less painful for a shared or spare radio.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandAPRS and GPS integration seeker
Built-in APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth give it the integration features the other radio lacks.
Radtel RT-950 PROOperator needing many stored repeater channels
Its 960 memory channels far exceed the other radio's 128 for logging many repeaters.
Radtel RT-950 PROSimplex-focused portable operator
Its 227 gram body and simple operation suit grab-and-go simplex use without extra setup.
GT-5R 5W Dual Band
Reasons to choose Baofeng GT-5R
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO
- 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng GT-5R
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-950 PROPICK
$96.00 on AmazonKeep researching
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