RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng K5 Plus vs Radtel RT-920
Our pick
Radtel RT-920$47.04
The Radtel RT-920 is the better choice for most buyers.
The single most important differentiator is TX power. The RT-920 delivers a specified 8W, while the K5 Plus lists no TX power figure at all. We cannot assess the K5's actual output. For practical radio use, power matters significantly. The RT-920 also includes Bluetooth, which the K5 Plus lacks, enabling wireless audio and programming without a cable.
The K5 Plus costs half as much at $23, and owners report it favorably at 4.5/5 stars from 506 reviews. That large review count represents genuine buyer feedback. However, the budget price and positive ratings do not compensate for unknown output specs that affect basic radio function.
The Radtel costs $47 with documented 8W TX power and Bluetooth connectivity. Owners rate it 4.3/5 from 119 reviews, showing solid approval despite fewer reviews to draw from. Both radios support CHIRP programming.
Buy the K5 Plus only if you want maximum budget savings and acceptable general reviews carry enough confidence for your use case. Buy the RT-920 if you need confirmed TX power output and wireless capability, and can spend twice the price. For most amateur radio operators, the RT-920's specified power and features justify the cost difference.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning radio programming basics
Its analog VHF and UHF simplicity and large memory suit someone learning basic programming without extra cost.
Baofeng K5 PlusBudget-conscious buyer prioritizing lowest purchase cost
It costs less than the alternative while still covering VHF and UHF for local repeater use.
Baofeng K5 PlusCasual monitoring with a large channel list
Its 999 memory channels exceed the other radio's 960, leaving room for many frequencies.
Baofeng K5 PlusShack companion or go-bag user needing more power
Its 8 watt transmit power and Bluetooth support make it more capable for go-bag and shack use.
RT-920Field operators wanting Bluetooth and a broader feature set
It offers a broader feature set, including Bluetooth, for operators who want more than basic analog use.
RT-920
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus
- 4% more memory channels (999 vs 960)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng K5 Plus
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-920PICK
$47.04 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

