RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-5R vs TYT MD-UV390
Our pick
TYT MD-UV390$120.99
The UV-5R is the clear winner for most users.
The single most important differentiator is price and owner feedback. The UV-5R costs one-sixth as much ($20 vs $121) while owners report 4.5 stars across over 10,000 reviews versus 4.0 stars from 142 reviews for the MD-UV390. Both radios deliver identical 5W transmit power. The MD-UV390 adds DMR capability and IP67 weather sealing, but these features come at significant cost with less owner validation. The UV-5R supports CHIRP programming, a major advantage for frequency management and backup. We lack the MD-UV390's weight specification, so we cannot compare portability directly.
The UV-5R is the choice for budget-conscious operators, beginners, and anyone prioritizing proven owner satisfaction and programming flexibility. The MD-UV390 makes sense only if you specifically need DMR digital mode and require IP67 weather protection, and you accept paying premium pricing with limited owner feedback.
Buy the UV-5R for general handheld use. Buy the MD-UV390 only if DMR and waterproofing are non-negotiable requirements that justify the cost difference.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
It costs far less than the alternative while covering the VHF and UHF bands a new licensee needs for local repeaters.
UV-5RLocal repeater monitoring and simple FM work
Its analog FM operation and 128 channels handle everyday repeater access without the complexity of digital programming.
UV-5RHams wanting to try DMR on a budget
It adds DMR digital mode support that the Baofeng lacks, making it the practical entry point into digital voice.
MD-UV390Wet or dusty outdoor field operations
Its IP67 rating protects it from water and dust, which the Baofeng does not offer.
MD-UV390Operators who program large channel lists
With 3000 memory channels and a larger codeplug capacity, it suits users managing many frequencies and talkgroups.
MD-UV390Lightweight portable use on a tight budget
At 250 grams with a much lower purchase price, it suits casual portable use where cost matters most.
UV-5R
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390
- 23x more memory channels (3,000 vs 128)
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5R
Check on AmazonTYT MD-UV390PICK
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