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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng K5 Plus vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

Baofeng K5 Plus$23.64

The Baofeng K5 Plus is the clear winner here, despite the Retevis RT95's superior feature set. At a quarter of the price, the K5 Plus delivers a higher overall score, making it the better value proposition for most users. The most important differentiator is cost versus capability. While the RT95 offers CHIRP support for easier programming, this advantage doesn't justify a 504 percent price premium when the K5 Plus scores higher in overall performance.

The Baofeng K5 Plus suits budget-conscious operators and those just entering amateur radio who want decent performance without breaking the bank. The Retevis RT95 is better for users who specifically need CHIRP compatibility or those who value Retevis's reputation for support and reliability, even at higher cost.

Given the scoring data, we recommend the Baofeng K5 Plus for the average amateur radio enthusiast. The four-point performance advantage combined with dramatic cost savings makes it the smarter choice unless CHIRP programming capability is a non-negotiable requirement for your setup.

Winner
Baofeng K5 Plus
Runner-up
Retevis RT95

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a strict budget

    Its extremely low price makes it the perfect entry point for learning radio basics.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Operator needing digital modes (DMR/DSTAR)

    The CHIRP feature allows for necessary digital mode operation and flexibility.

    Retevis RT95
  • Casual monitoring and local repeater use

    The K5 Plus offers ample channels and simplicity for basic local VHF/UHF monitoring.

    Baofeng K5 Plus
  • Home base station experimentation/dual-band needs

    Its dual-band capability and advanced features support home base experimentation.

    Retevis RT95
  • Budget-conscious field testing and learning

    It provides the necessary features for learning without requiring a large initial investment.

    Baofeng K5 Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus

  • 83% cheaper ($23.64 vs $139.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng K5 PlusSpecRetevis RT95
$23.64
Price
$139.99
57
Overall Score
49
+16% for winner
999
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
11
Black
Color
Black
UHF
Tuner Type
Dual band
K5 Plus
Model Number
RT95
User Manual
Built-In Media
1 x RT95 Mobile radio, 1 x Power cable, 1 x Handheld mic, 1 x One pack of screw and accessories, 1 x User’s manual, 1 x Magnet Mount Antenna
[Frequency-based compatibility]: 136-174 MHz (VHF) and 400-480 MHz (UHF)
Compatible Devices
Vehicle power supplies, microphones, external antennas, other two-way radios on the same frequency band
Rechargable
Additional Features
Dual Band, Dual Band Mobile Transceiver; Mobile Two Way Radio;Mobile Radio for RV Offroad 4x4, Emergency Alarm
no
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng K5 PlusPICK

$23.64 on Amazon

Retevis RT95

$139.99 on Amazon

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