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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band vs Quansheng TK11

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band$33.99

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers seeking better specifications for the money.

The most important differentiator is price paired with known specifications. The K5 Plus costs $26 with a confirmed 10W transmit power and CHIRP compatibility, while the TK11 costs $97 with an unknown transmit power rating and no CHIRP support. RadioRanked's Overall Score reflects this value difference: 67 versus 33, meaning the K5 Plus delivers significantly better listed specs per dollar spent.

Owner feedback slightly favors the K5 Plus. Baofeng reports a 4.4-star rating from 216 Amazon reviews, while Quansheng reports 4.2 stars from only 15 reviews. The K5 Plus has substantially more owner data, giving greater confidence in buyer satisfaction. Both radios are effectively tied on weight and lack the same advanced features (no DMR, APRS, or GPS on either model).

The K5 Plus should appeal to beginners and budget users wanting a capable tri-band radio with known performance and broad owner feedback. The TK11 might interest only those with specific needs unavailable in other budget options, though missing TX power data makes informed comparison difficult.

Buy the Baofeng K5 Plus unless you have a particular reason to choose otherwise.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee needing versatility

    Its tri-band capability and high memory make it ideal for learning multiple amateur bands.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Casual local simplex communication only

    This radio is simple and sufficient for basic, local analog VHF/UHF communication needs.

    TK11
  • Budget-conscious beginner needing advanced features

    The lower price point combined with CHIRP and high memory offers excellent value.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Operator needing maximum simplicity and minimal cost

    It provides a very basic, reliable analog option without complex digital modes.

    TK11
  • Portable operations for multiple bands (POTA/SOTA)

    The tri-band capability is crucial for covering various amateur radio frequencies.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

  • 65% cheaper ($33.99 vs $96.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 20% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • 6g lighter (284g vs 290g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandSpecQuansheng TK11
$33.99
Price
$96.99
66
Overall Score
33
2.0× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
999
Memory Channels
999
290g
Weight
284g
+2% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+20% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
K5PLUS
Model Number
UV-K5
2500mAh Battery x 1, BAOFENG K5PLUS Two Way Radio x 1, Earpice x 1; Belt Clip x 1; Lanyard x 1, Speaker Mic x 1; USB-C Charging Cable x 1, Standard ANT x 1; Long ANT x 1
Built-In Media
Handheld Radio
UHF VHF 1.25M
Frequency Range
350-490 MHz
CHIRP software, Earpiece, Standard antenna
Compatible Devices
Smartphone
Channel Clone, Digital Display, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable
18 Months Warranty
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 K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK

$33.99 on Amazon

Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

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