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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band vs Radtel RT-860

Our pick

Radtel RT-860$36.99

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers seeking better listed specifications for the money. RadioRanked's overall score of 67 versus 45 reflects superior specs at a lower price point, combined with stronger owner feedback.

The most important differentiator is the owner rating. K5 Plus owners report 4.4 out of 5 stars across 216 reviews, while RT-860 owners report 3.9 out of 5 across 139 reviews. This represents meaningful buyer satisfaction in favor of the Baofeng. We lack the RT-860's transmit power figure, so direct RF performance comparison is incomplete, but the K5 Plus's known 10W output, lighter weight, and CHIRP compatibility round out a more complete package.

The K5 Plus suits anyone wanting an affordable entry-level tri-band radio with programmable features. The RT-860 might appeal only if its unknown specifications or specific features matter for your use case, though current data doesn't suggest a compelling reason to choose it.

Buy the Baofeng K5 Plus unless you have specific requirements the RT-860 addresses that we cannot evaluate from available specifications.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensed operator

    Costs less and includes CHIRP programming support, making it the stronger pick for a budget-minded new licensee.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Operator wanting 1.25m band access

    Only this radio covers 1.25 meters alongside VHF and UHF, which suits anyone learning multiple bands.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Portable field operator counting grams

    At 255 grams it is lighter than the 290 gram Baofeng, which matters on long carries.

    RT-860
  • Local repeater user with long channel lists

    Its 1024-channel memory exceeds the Baofeng's 999, helping operators with large repeater and simplex lists.

    RT-860
  • Emergency preparedness and temporary public service

    The 10-watt output and three bands suit temporary public service or emergency communications work.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

  • 25% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
  • 35g lighter (255g vs 290g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandSpecRadtel RT-860
—
Price
$36.99
51
Overall Score
45
+14% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
290g
Weight
255g
+14% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2000 mAh
+25% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
With SW/MW Antennas
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
With SW/MW Antennas
K5PLUS
Model Number
RT-860
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
1x RT-860 Main unit, 1x 2000mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1X Desktop charger, 1x lanyard, 1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
UHF VHF 1.25M
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
CHIRP software, Earpiece, Standard antenna
Compatible Devices
External antennas (50 ohm)
Channel Clone, Digital Display, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
18 Months Warranty
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK

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Radtel RT-860

$36.99 on Amazon

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