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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus vs Radtel RT-860

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus$23.98

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner here. Both radios share identical feature sets, lacking DMR, APRS, GPS, and CHIRP compatibility, so the decision comes down to core performance and value. The K5 Plus scores notably higher at 57 out of 100 versus the RT-860's 48 out of 100, representing a meaningful gap in overall quality and reliability. More importantly, you're paying 32 percent less for the superior radio—just $25 compared to $37.

The single most important differentiator is the overall performance score, which suggests the K5 Plus offers better build quality, reception, or transmit characteristics despite both having unknown power ratings and weights.

The Baofeng K5 Plus suits budget-conscious operators who need a dependable entry-level handheld without unnecessary features. The Radtel RT-860 would only appeal to someone with specific compatibility requirements outside this comparison's scope, though that's hard to justify given the price and performance gap.

Unless you have a particular reason to choose the RT-860, go with the Baofeng K5 Plus. You'll save money and get a better-performing radio.

Winner
Baofeng K5 Plus
Runner-up
Radtel RT-860

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner learning basic radio concepts

    Its higher rating and focus on new licensees make it the ideal starting point.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Operator needing maximum channel memory for scanning

    The extra 32 channels provide more capacity for extensive local scanning.

    RT-860
  • Budget-conscious buyer prioritizing overall value

    It offers excellent features and a very low price point for new users.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Field tester needing reliable local repeater access

    Its specific mention for local repeater operations suggests better local performance.

    RT-860
  • Amateur needing a simple, reliable first radio

    It is explicitly marketed for new amateur radio licensees.

    Baofeng K5 Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus

  • 35% cheaper ($23.98 vs $36.99)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 PlusSpecRadtel RT-860
$23.98
Price
$36.99
57
Overall Score
45
+27% for winner
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
Battery
2000 mAh
Authorized
FCC Authorization
Not Found
Black
color
With SW/MW Antennas
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
With SW/MW Antennas
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception,
K5 Plus
Model Number
RT-860
User Manual
Built-In Media
1x RT-860 Main unit, 1x 2000mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1X Desktop charger, 1x lanyard, 1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
[Frequency-based compatibility]: 136-174 MHz (VHF) and 400-480 MHz (UHF)
Compatible Devices
External antennas (50 ohm)
Rechargable
Additional Features
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
no
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng K5 PlusPICK

$23.98 on Amazon

Radtel RT-860

$36.99 on Amazon

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