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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5R Plus vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5R Plus$33.28

The Baofeng UV-5R Plus is the clear winner here. With an overall score of 64 versus 53, it outperforms the RT95 across the board while costing less than a third of the price. Both radios share similar feature sets, lacking DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities, and both support CHIRP programming.

The single most important differentiator is value. The UV-5R Plus delivers superior performance at $37 compared to the RT95's $126 price tag. This represents exceptional budget radio performance that's difficult to justify passing up unless you have specific operational needs the RT95 uniquely addresses, which this data doesn't suggest.

The UV-5R Plus is ideal for newcomers, hobbyists, and anyone building a budget-friendly radio collection without sacrificing functionality. The RT95 might appeal to users who specifically need its form factor or durability characteristics, though the specs provided don't clearly indicate what advantages justify its higher cost and lower score.

For most amateur radio operators, buy the Baofeng UV-5R Plus. You'll get better performance for significantly less money. The price-to-performance ratio makes it a no-brainer recommendation unless you have documented operational requirements the RT95 specifically fulfills.

Runner-up
Retevis RT95

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its lower price point makes it an excellent entry point for new operators.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
  • Mobile setup for home base experimentation

    The higher channel count and dual-band capability suit stationary base operations.

    Retevis RT95
  • Emergency preparedness and backup comms

    Its portability and low cost make it ideal for emergency field use.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
  • Amateur needing dual-band capability

    The RT95 offers necessary dual-band functionality for comprehensive amateur use.

    Retevis RT95
  • Casual POTA/SOTA field operation

    Its lightweight design and simple features are perfect for portable field use.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Plus

  • 76% cheaper ($33.28 vs $139.99)

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • 56% more memory channels (200 vs 128)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5R PlusSpecRetevis RT95
$33.28
Price
$139.99
63
Overall Score
49
+28% for winner
128
Memory Channels
200
+56% for winner
1800 mAh
Battery
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black-2Pack-AR-771
color
Black
2
unitCount
11
Black-2Pack-AR-771
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
13.8 Volts
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
Dual band
UV-5R
Model Number
RT95
2X1800mAh battery, 2XBelt&Sling, 2xAR-771, 2xRadio, Earpiece
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
VHF UHF
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
FR1024-677
Mfr Part Number
FA9129A-J9129A-C9058A
Two-way radios supporting UHF VHF frequencies
Compatible Devices
Vehicle power supplies, microphones, external antennas, other two-way radios on the same frequency band
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Long Range, 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
2.17"D x 1.38"W x 3.94"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
4.88"D x 6.42"W x 1.54"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5R PlusPICK

$33.28 on Amazon

Retevis RT95

$139.99 on Amazon

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