Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Radio A is the clear winner here. While both are the same model, Radio A offers dramatically better value at $16 versus $29, a 44% price difference for an identical radio. Radio A also provides verified specifications showing 5W TX power and 250g weight, whereas Radio B lists unknown power and weight—a red flag for incomplete product information.
The single most important differentiator is price combined with data transparency. You're paying significantly more for Radio B while getting less information about what you're actually buying.
The UV-5R at $16 is ideal for budget-conscious operators wanting a reliable entry-level handheld with proven specs and CHIRP compatibility. The $29 variant makes no sense unless you have a specific sourcing requirement, as it costs more while providing inferior documentation.
Buy Radio A without hesitation. The Baofeng UV-5R remains a solid beginner radio despite its modest 69/100 score, and at this price point, the value proposition is unbeatable. The lack of advanced features like DMR, APRS, or GPS is typical for this class. Avoid Radio B entirely given the pricing and missing specifications.
| Spec | Baofeng UV-5R | Baofeng UV-5R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $16.49 | $28.99 |
| Overall Score | 69 | 63 |
| TX Power (High) | 5.00W | — |
| Memory Channels | 128 | 128 |
| Weight | 250g | — |
| Battery | 1800 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Display | LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Voltage | 4 Volts | 7.4 Volts |
| Special Feature | Keypad Lock | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Water Resistant |
| UPC | 653391505106 | 713923481886 |
| Tuner Type | VHF/UHF 144-148 mhz / 420-450mhz | UHF,VHF |
| Model Number | Baofeng UV-5R+ blue | BF-UV5R |
| Built-In Media | 1 x BaoFeng UV-5R Two-Way Radio 1 x 7.4V 1800mAh Li-ion Battery Pack 1 x Antenna 1 x Earphone Mic/Headset 1 x Belt Clip 1 x Hand Strap 1 x ENG Manual 1 x Adapter 1 x Desktop Charger | 1 X BAOFENG UV-5R Ham Radio, 1 X Baofeng Programming Cable,1 X Walkie Talkie Earpiece, 1 X Long Antenna,1 X Standard Antenna, 1 XBaofeng Desktop Charger,1 X Hand strap, 1 X Belt clip, 2 X Battery,1 X Hand Speaker Mic |
| Mfr Part Number | 2698812239 | BF-UV5R |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX7 | IPX4 |
| Compatible Devices | UV-5R series accessories | baofeng radio handheld ham radio |
| Additional Features | Keypad Lock | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range |
| Battery Average Life | 72 Hours | 36 Hours |
| Warranty Description | No | 30-day hassle-free return |
| Connectivity Protocol | VHF/UHF | Two-Way Radio Frequency |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.2"D x 2.1"W x 10.2"H | 1"D x 2"W x 5"H |