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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band$25.99

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner here. It delivers superior value and performance across every measurable dimension.

The single most important differentiator is the overall score: the K5 Plus scores 68 versus the RT-880's 52, a substantial 16-point gap that reflects real performance differences. Add in the K5 Plus's confirmed 10W output and significantly lower price, and the choice becomes straightforward.

Budget-conscious operators or those building a first radio collection should buy the Baofeng K5 Plus, which offers better specifications and proven community support. The Radtel RT-880 might interest only niche users seeking specific features we cannot assess from this data alone, since its unknown TX power and lower overall rating suggest it underperforms relative to its cost.

For most amateur radio operators, the K5 Plus delivers more capability per dollar and better overall engineering. Unless you have particular requirements the RT-880 addresses that aren't reflected in these specs, spending three times as much on the Radtel makes no sense. The K5 Plus is the obvious recommendation.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New beginner learning multiple bands

    Its tri-band capability and low price make it ideal for starting out.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Experienced operator needing high channel count

    The superior 1024 channel memory is better suited for advanced repeaters.

    RT-880
  • Budget-conscious portable operations

    The K5 Plus offers excellent value and necessary bands without breaking the bank.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Technician needing reliable VHF/UHF only

    Focusing on two bands simplifies the radio and meets specific operational needs.

    RT-880
  • Operator needing simple, affordable entry point

    It provides core features and multiple bands at a very accessible price point.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

  • 65% cheaper ($25.99 vs $74.00)
  • 4% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandSpecRadtel RT-880
$25.99
Price
$74.00
68
Overall Score
52
+32% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
2500 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+4% for winner
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
K5PLUS
Model Number
RT-880
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-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
UHF VHF 1.25M
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
CHIRP software, Earpiece, Standard antenna
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
Channel Clone, Digital Display, Long Range, USB-C 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
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK

$25.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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