Baofeng UV-5R Plus vs Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

The UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner here. For an extra $23, you get a radio that's substantially more capable and reliable, reflected in its 55/100 score versus the UV-5R Plus's disappointing 35/100 rating.

The single most important differentiator is confirmed specifications. The UV-5RM Plus explicitly delivers 10W of transmit power, while the UV-5R Plus leaves TX power unknown—a red flag for a primary operating parameter. This transparency matters when you're buying a radio to actually use. Both support CHIRP programming, making frequency management straightforward, but only the UV-5RM Plus gives you the confidence that you know what you're getting.

The UV-5R Plus might appeal to someone wanting an absolute budget entry point for experimenting, though its low overall score suggests even budget hunters will be disappointed. The UV-5RM Plus is the purchase for anyone serious about reliable handheld operation.

Buy the UV-5RM Plus. It's the only choice that makes sense given the score gap and specification clarity. The extra $23 investment protects you from an unreliable platform and delivers a radio that actually performs as advertised.