RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-5R Plus vs Yaesu FT-65R
Our pick
Baofeng UV-5R Plus$16.79
The UV-5R Plus is the clear winner for budget-conscious operators. The most important differentiator is price: at $20 versus $199, the UV-5R Plus costs one tenth as much while offering the same core features. Both radios support CHIRP programming, lack DMR and GPS, and weigh nearly the same. We do not have the UV-5R Plus transmit power figure, so a direct power comparison is impossible. The FT-65R offers an IP54 weather rating that the UV-5R Plus does not list. Owner ratings are effectively tied, with the FT-65R slightly ahead at 4.6 versus 4.5 stars across far fewer reviews.
The UV-5R Plus should appeal to newcomers, experimenters, and anyone building a backup radio on a tight budget. The FT-65R suits operators who need documented weather sealing and prefer a slightly lighter handheld from a major Japanese manufacturer.
Buy the UV-5R Plus unless the IP54 rating is essential to your use case. The price advantage is overwhelming for equivalent listed specifications.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious new HAM operator
The Baofeng offers excellent features and performance at a significantly lower entry price.
UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]Operator needing reliable repeater access
The Yaesu model is better suited for local repeater work due to its established reliability and power.
FT-65REmergency preparedness and backup comms
Its low cost and focus on basic field operation make it ideal for emergency backup kits.
UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]Experienced operator needing solid analog comms
The Yaesu provides a more robust, reliable experience for traditional analog radio use.
FT-65RCasual field operation on a tight budget
It provides ample features and channels without requiring a large initial investment.
UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Plus
- 91% cheaper ($16.79 vs $194.98)
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-65R
- 56% more memory channels (200 vs 128)
- 8% more battery (1950 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- 35g lighter (215g vs 250g)
- IP54 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5R PlusPICK
$16.79 on AmazonYaesu FT-65R
$194.98 on AmazonKeep researching
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