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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band$25.99

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner here. For amateur radio operators, the combination of lower cost, higher transmit power, and CHIRP compatibility makes this an easy choice.

The single most important differentiator is price-to-performance ratio. You're paying $30 less for the K5 Plus while gaining a full 2 watts of additional transmit power and maintaining CHIRP programmability. Neither radio offers advanced features like DMR, APRS, or GPS, so they're functionally comparable in that regard. The K5 Plus's tri-band capability also gives you more frequency flexibility than most budget handhelds.

The Baofeng K5 Plus suits operators who prioritize value and want straightforward VHF/UHF coverage without premium pricing. The Radtel RT-920 would only appeal to someone with a specific requirement for that model's band configuration or who prefers its form factor, but these advantages don't justify the price premium given the lower power output.

Recommendation: Buy the Baofeng K5 Plus. Unless you have specific technical needs unique to the RT-920, spending an extra $30 for less power and no CHIRP support doesn't make financial sense for beginners or budget-conscious operators.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time, budget-conscious amateur operator

    The K5 Plus offers more channels and higher power for learning multiple bands affordably.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Field operator needing wide-band monitoring

    The RT-920's specific features and focus make it ideal for monitoring diverse frequencies.

    RT-920
  • Emergency preparedness or go-bag use

    Its design and Bluetooth capability suit reliable, portable communication in emergency scenarios.

    RT-920
  • Amateur learning digital modes affordably

    The K5 Plus's high channel count and CHIRP feature support various digital modes easily.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
  • Experienced operator needing premium reliability

    While not premium, the K5 Plus's high power and channel count offer better general value.

    Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band

  • 45% cheaper ($25.99 vs $47.04)
  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • 4% more memory channels (999 vs 960)
  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandSpecRadtel RT-920
$25.99
Price
$47.04
68
Overall Score
63
+8% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+25% for winner
999
Memory Channels
960
+4% for winner
2500 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+14% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
K5PLUS
Model Number
RT-920
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-920 Main unit, 1x 2200mAh 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
Smartphones, USB-C devices
Channel Clone, Digital Display, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
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-920

$47.04 on Amazon

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