RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng K5 Plus vs TYT MD-UV390
Our pick
TYT MD-UV390$120.99
The TYT MD-UV390 is the clear winner for most users.
The single most important differentiator is DMR support. The MD-UV390 includes DMR digital mode, a major feature for joining the growing ecosystem of digital voice networks. The K5 Plus offers none of the digital modes that define modern amateur radio. This gap explains much of the score difference, despite missing specs on both radios limiting full comparison.
The MD-UV390 also brings IP67 weather resistance and a known price of $121, making it a practical choice. The K5 Plus has unknown power output and price, which means we cannot fully evaluate its value proposition. Owner feedback slightly favors the K5 Plus at 4.5 stars versus 4.0, but the MD-UV390 still rates well with 142 reviews confirming it meets user expectations.
Buy the MD-UV390 if you want DMR capability, proven weather sealing, and a transparent price point for digital-mode amateur radio. Buy the K5 Plus only if you need its lightweight form factor and can confirm its power and price specifications meet your needs, accepting that you'll be limited to analog FM.
The MD-UV390 is the safer recommendation for someone shopping today.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New licensee wanting a simple analog handheld
Its beginner-friendly profile and straightforward analog operation suit someone just getting started on local repeaters.
Baofeng K5 PlusBudget-conscious buyer on a tight spending limit
It costs less and still covers VHF and UHF, making it the sensible choice when money is the main constraint.
Baofeng K5 PlusWeight-conscious hiker or field operator
At 290 grams with a lighter overall build, it adds less load to a pack on long outings.
Baofeng K5 PlusHams wanting to try DMR digital voice
It supports DMR alongside FM, so it lets a budget-minded operator explore digital modes without a larger purchase.
MD-UV390Wet or dusty outdoor operator
Its IP67 rating protects it against water and dust, which matters on rainy or dirty field outings.
MD-UV390Operator building large channel codeplugs
With 3000 memory channels and a higher feature score, it handles large channel lists far better.
MD-UV390
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng K5 Plus
Search on AmazonTYT MD-UV390PICK
$120.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads