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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus$23.64

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner here. Despite both radios lacking advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS capability, the K5 Plus delivers superior value at nearly one-third the price of the Radtel RT-880.

The single most important differentiator is cost versus performance. The K5 Plus scores 57/100 compared to the RT-880's 52/100, meaning you're getting a genuinely better radio while spending significantly less money. This five-point margin in overall scoring, combined with the dramatic price difference, makes the choice straightforward.

The Baofeng K5 Plus suits budget-conscious operators who need a basic handheld radio for simplex communications or local repeater access without premium features. The Radtel RT-880 might appeal only to those with specific brand loyalty or particular ergonomic preferences that justify the substantial price premium.

Unless you have a compelling reason to choose the RT-880, the Baofeng K5 Plus is the smarter purchase. You'll save approximately $50 while getting a radio that actually performs better. For entry-level users and value-seekers, this is an easy recommendation.

Winner
Baofeng K5 Plus
Runner-up
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time amateur radio licensee

    Its simple operation and low cost make it ideal for learning radio basics.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Experienced operator needing maximum channels

    The higher channel count provides better coverage for multi-region operations.

    RT-880
  • Budget-conscious field testing and monitoring

    The extremely low price point makes it perfect for casual, non-critical use.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Operator covering multiple diverse regions

    The increased memory capacity supports complex, multi-band deployments.

    RT-880
  • Beginner needing simple, basic functionality

    Its straightforward design minimizes complexity for new radio hobbyists.

    Baofeng K5 Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus

  • 68% cheaper ($23.64 vs $74.00)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 PlusSpecRadtel RT-880
$23.64
Price
$74.00
57
Overall Score
52
+10% for winner
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
Battery
2400 mAh
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
UHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
K5 Plus
Model Number
RT-880
User Manual
Built-In Media
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh 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
[Frequency-based compatibility]: 136-174 MHz (VHF) and 400-480 MHz (UHF)
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
Rechargable
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
no
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng K5 PlusPICK

$23.64 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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