Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-5R Plus vs Yaesu VX-6R

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5R Plus$16.79

The Baofeng UV-5R Plus is the clear winner for most users. The single most important differentiator is price: at twenty dollars versus three hundred thirty, the UV-5R Plus costs nearly seventeen times less while delivering better listed specifications for the money, reflected in its significantly higher RadioRanked score of 64 versus 37.

Both radios share identical feature sets on paper, lacking DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities. We don't have the UV-5R Plus's transmit power figure, so we cannot directly compare output levels. The radios are nearly identical in weight. The UV-5R Plus offers CHIRP compatibility, which the Yaesu lacks, making programming more convenient. Owner ratings are effectively tied at 4.5 and 4.6 stars, though the UV-5R Plus has far more reviews representing broader buyer feedback.

The UV-5R Plus suits budget-conscious operators, newcomers, and anyone seeking an affordable entry point to handheld radio. The Yaesu VX-6R appeals only to users who specifically require its particular design, features, or brand preference and can justify the premium cost.

Buy the Baofeng UV-5R Plus unless you have specific reasons requiring the Yaesu's particular characteristics.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner, budget-conscious, casual field use

    Its low price and simple features make it an excellent entry point for new operators.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
  • Serious emergency preparedness and backup comms

    The VX-6R offers superior durability and reliable analog performance for critical situations.

    VX-6R
  • Advanced field operations needing extreme durability

    Its rugged build and high power output are ideal for demanding outdoor activations.

    VX-6R
  • Operator needing basic VHF/UHF functionality affordably

    It provides sufficient channels and modes at a fraction of the cost of the Yaesu.

    UV-5R PLUS [5 Colors]
  • Experienced amateur needing reliable, simple comms

    The dedicated analog focus and robust design ensure reliable operation when needed most.

    VX-6R

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Plus

  • 95% cheaper ($16.79 vs $359.97)
  • 29% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • 20g lighter (250g vs 270g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 8x more memory channels (999 vs 128)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5R PlusSpecYaesu VX-6R
$16.79
Price
$359.97
64
Overall Score
37
+72% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
128
Memory Channels
999
7.7× difference
250g
Weight
270g
+8% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+28% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black-2Pack-AR-771
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
3.7 Volts (DC)
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF
UV-5R
Model Number
VX-6R
VHF UHF
Frequency Range
0.5-999 MHz
FR1024-677
Mfr Part Number
VX-6R
Two-way radios supporting UHF VHF frequencies
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Long Range, Rechargable
Additional Features
Waterproof
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof
2.17"D x 1.38"W x 3.94"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5R PlusPICK

$16.79 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons