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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus vs Baofeng UV-28

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner here, despite the UV-28's GPS advantage. While both radios suffer from incomplete specifications and lack CHIRP programmability, the K5 Plus edges ahead with a higher overall score of 57 versus 54, better value at $25 versus $47, and comparable feature sets otherwise.

The single most important differentiator is price. The K5 Plus costs nearly half as much as the UV-28, making it the smarter choice for budget-conscious operators who don't specifically need GPS functionality.

The K5 Plus suits newcomers wanting to explore handheld operation without significant financial commitment, while the UV-28 appeals to users who prioritize location tracking capabilities enough to justify the premium price.

However, neither radio is ideal. Both show concerning gaps in manufacturer specifications and lack CHIRP support, which limits programming flexibility. Before purchasing either, verify current specs and consider alternatives from manufacturers who provide complete technical documentation. If you absolutely need GPS in this price range, the UV-28 justifies its cost, but the K5 Plus remains the better general recommendation.

Runner-up
Baofeng K5 Plus
Winner
Baofeng UV-28

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner learning basic radio concepts

    Its focus on analog VHF/UHF makes it ideal for learning core radio principles.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • SOTA/POTA activators needing location tracking

    The integrated GPS feature is invaluable for documenting and coordinating field activities.

    UV-28
  • Budget-conscious user prioritizing low entry cost

    The K5 Plus offers excellent value for basic, foundational radio operation.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Emergency preparedness and ARES/RACES use

    Its dual-band capability and GPS support make it better for emergency deployment.

    UV-28
  • Advanced user needing maximum channel memory

    The 1000-channel memory provides slightly more flexibility for complex setups.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus

  • 42% cheaper ($23.64 vs $40.99)

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 PlusSpecBaofeng UV-28
$23.64
Price
$40.99
57
Overall Score
77
+35% for winner
TX Power (High)
10.00W
999
Memory Channels
1000
Battery
2200 mAh
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
K5 Plus
Model Number
UV-28 Plus
User Manual
Built-In Media
1 x Headset, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Wrist Strap, 1 x High-Gain ANT, 1 x Speaker Mic, 1 x UV-28 PLUS Ham Radio, 2 x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Desktop Charger with Adapter
[Frequency-based compatibility]: 136-174 MHz (VHF) and 400-480 MHz (UHF)
Compatible Devices
Repeater, Smartphone
Rechargable
Additional Features
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
no
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng K5 Plus

$23.64 on Amazon

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

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