Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5R Plus vs Radtel RT-910B

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5R Plus$33.28

The Baofeng UV-5R Plus is the clear winner here. Both radios occupy the budget entry-level market with negligible price difference, but the UV-5R Plus pulls ahead with superior overall scoring and critical software compatibility.

The single most important differentiator is CHIRP support. The UV-5R Plus works with CHIRP, the open-source programming software that's become standard in amateur radio. This eliminates dependency on proprietary software and makes frequency management straightforward. The RT-910B lacks this, creating a significant usability disadvantage for programmers who expect modern flexibility.

The UV-5R Plus suits beginners who want a reliable entry point into handheld operation with the convenience of community-supported programming tools. The RT-910B appeals only to budget minimizers who don't mind working within proprietary constraints.

For most amateur radio newcomers, the Baofeng UV-5R Plus offers better long-term value despite costing slightly more. Its seven-point scoring advantage reflects real-world usability differences that compound over time. Spend the extra four dollars and avoid potential frustration with limited programming options.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time operator needing basic VHF/UHF

    The UV-5R Plus offers more features and a higher score for new learners.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
  • Ultra budget buyer needing spare backup radio

    The Radtel is slightly cheaper and provides ample channels for a spare unit.

    RT-910B
  • Field operator prioritizing maximum channel memory

    With 960 channels, the Radtel offers superior memory for large networks.

    RT-910B
  • Advanced beginner needing CHIRP and basic features

    The UV-5R Plus's CHIRP feature provides better utility for learning digital modes.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
  • Casual prepper needing simple, reliable comms

    Its higher overall score and robust design make it better for emergency backup.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Plus

  • 20% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1500 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-910B

  • 7% cheaper ($30.99 vs $33.28)
  • 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5R PlusSpecRadtel RT-910B
$33.28
Price
$30.99
63
Overall Score
52
+20% for winner
128
Memory Channels
960
7.7× difference
1800 mAh
Battery
1500 mAh
+20% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black-2Pack-AR-771
color
Standard
2
unitCount
1
Black-2Pack-AR-771
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-5R
Model Number
RT-910B
2X1800mAh battery, 2XBelt&Sling, 2xAR-771, 2xRadio, Earpiece
Built-In Media
1x RT-910B Main unit, 1x 1500mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
VHF UHF
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
FR1024-677
Mfr Part Number
1 Pack
Two-way radios supporting UHF VHF frequencies
Compatible Devices
Bluetooth-enabled devices, other two-way radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Long Range, Rechargable
Additional Features
Bluetooth Programmable, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum, VOX Hands Free Handheld Radio
no
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
2.17"D x 1.38"W x 3.94"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.57"D x 2"W x 10.62"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5R PlusPICK

$33.28 on Amazon

Radtel RT-910B

$30.99 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons