Baofeng UV-5R Plus vs Radtel RT-860

The Baofeng UV-5R Plus is the clear winner here. These radios are functionally similar in most respects, both lacking DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities while sharing an identical price point. However, the UV-5R Plus demonstrates significantly better overall performance with a 64/100 score compared to the RT-860's 48/100.

The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility. The UV-5R Plus supports CHIRP programming software, which is invaluable for managing frequencies and settings without relying on manufacturer software or manual programming. This alone makes it substantially more user-friendly and flexible for most operators. The RT-860's lack of CHIRP support is a notable limitation that compounds its lower overall score.

The UV-5R Plus should appeal to beginners and budget-conscious operators who want reliable performance and modern software support. The RT-860 only makes sense for operators already committed to its proprietary ecosystem or those with very specific regional requirements.

We recommend the Baofeng UV-5R Plus without reservation. At the same price, you're getting a radio with better performance metrics and superior programming flexibility. The CHIRP support alone justifies the choice for virtually any use case.