RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng K5 Plus vs Radtel RT-4D DMR
Our pick
Radtel RT-4D DMR$52.33
The Radtel RT-4D is the clear winner for most users. The most important differentiator is feature set: the RT-4D offers DMR digital mode, GPS, and Bluetooth connectivity, while the K5 Plus provides only basic analog FM. The RT-4D is also 92 grams lighter and comes with a known 5-watt transmit power specification.
The K5 Plus costs less than half the price at $23, which appeals to budget-conscious buyers or those wanting a throwaway backup radio, though we lack its transmit power figure. Owners report 4.5 stars across 506 reviews, suggesting widespread satisfaction despite basic functionality. However, the RT-4D's stronger overall score of 76 versus 56 reflects its substantially better specification-to-price ratio. Owners report 4.2 stars from 112 reviews.
Buy the K5 Plus only if budget is your absolute priority and you need nothing beyond analog FM simplex. Buy the RT-4D if you want modern features, lighter weight, or any chance of using DMR repeaters. For nearly everyone else, the Radtel RT-4D delivers significantly more capability at a price still accessible to casual operators.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning local repeaters
Simpler analog operation and a higher beginner score make it the easier starting point.
Baofeng K5 PlusBudget-minded buyer on a tight spending limit
Costs less than the alternative while still covering VHF and UHF analog repeaters.
Baofeng K5 PlusDMR operator needing digital fleet communications
Only this radio offers DMR, so it is the choice for digital network access.
RT-4D DMRPortable operator hiking summits with a light pack
Lighter weight and a higher portability score favor carrying it on long field trips.
RT-4D DMRLicensed ham wanting GPS and Bluetooth features
Built-in GPS and Bluetooth give it a much wider feature set than the alternative.
RT-4D DMR
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-4D DMR
- 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
- 92g lighter (198g vs 290g)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng K5 Plus
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-4D DMRPICK
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