RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band vs Retevis RT85
Our pick
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band$33.99
The Baofeng K5 Plus is the better value here. Both radios lack the same advanced features (DMR, APRS, GPS), and their specs are effectively matched on what matters most: CHIRP compatibility, similar owner ratings, and no IP rating data for either. The K5 Plus delivers twice the transmit power at 10W versus the RT85's 5W, which translates to better range and coverage. Yes, the RT85 is lighter and slightly more compact, but the K5 Plus weighs only 290 grams, hardly a burden for a handheld.
The real differentiator is power output. For amateur radio work, especially in areas with poor propagation or when reaching distant repeaters, that extra 5W matters. Owners report 4.4 stars across 216 reviews for the K5 Plus and 4.5 stars across 270 for the RT85, so buyer satisfaction is essentially equivalent.
Buy the Baofeng K5 Plus if you want maximum range and power for budget money. Buy the RT85 only if portability is critical enough to justify half the transmit power and double the price.
The K5 Plus is the stronger choice for most operators.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Beginner needing maximum channel capacity
Its 999 channel memory offers superior flexibility for learning multiple bands.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandCasual user needing basic local repeater access
The RT85 is perfectly adequate for local repeater coverage and basic field use.
Retevis RT85Budget-conscious operator prioritizing transmit power
The K5 Plus's 10W transmit power provides a noticeable advantage in range.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandOperator needing a reliable, simple, low-power radio
Its slightly lower power and simpler feature set make it ideal for casual operation.
Retevis RT85New hams focused on learning multiple amateur bands
The vast channel memory and tri-band capability support diverse learning goals.
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-Band
- 15% cheaper ($33.99 vs $39.99)
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)
Reasons to choose Retevis RT85
- 63g lighter (227g vs 290g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng K5 Plus Tri-BandPICK
$33.99 on AmazonRetevis RT85
$39.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads