RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band vs Radtel RT-730
Our pick
Radtel RT-730$39.00
The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner for most users.
Both radios share identical core specifications: 10W transmission power and CHIRP compatibility. Neither offers DMR, APRS, or GPS, and neither has a published IP rating. The most important differentiator is price paired with owner feedback. The K5 Plus costs $13 less while earning a higher owner rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 216 reviews versus the RT-730's 4.1 from 176 reviews. Owners report more satisfaction with the K5 Plus at a significant price advantage. We lack the RT-730's weight specification, so we cannot compare portability directly, but this missing data point does not change the verdict given the price and rating gap.
The K5 Plus is the right choice for budget-conscious operators who want the most owner satisfaction per dollar. The RT-730 makes sense only if its unknown specifications or features matter for your specific use case, but the listed data gives no reason to pay the premium.
Buy the Baofeng K5 Plus unless you have a specific requirement the RT-730 meets that the K5 Plus does not. Otherwise, go with the K5 Plus and invest the $13 savings elsewhere in your setup.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee on a tight budget
Costs less than the alternative while offering 10W output, CHIRP support, and a higher value rating.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandLicensee wanting access to the 1.25m band
Only this radio covers the 1.25m band alongside VHF and UHF, which suits multi-band learners.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandEmergency preparedness with large channel memory needs
Holds 999 channels, far more than the alternative's 199, for storing many local repeaters and public service frequencies.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandField Day backup radio for simple VHF and UHF
Its straightforward two-band layout and reliable 10W output suit a dependable backup with fewer channels to manage.
RT-730Portable operator prioritizing lighter carry weight
Scores higher on portability, so it suits hikers and POTA activators who carry gear for long distances.
RT-730
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
- 5x more memory channels (999 vs 199)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730
- No clear advantages in this comparison
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-730PICK
$39.00 on AmazonMore head-to-heads