RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-5R vs Y23UV-98PLUS
Our pick
Y23UV-98PLUS$78.28
The UV-5R is the clear winner for most users. The single most important differentiator is price and evidence from real buyers. The UV-5R costs $16 versus $78 for the Y23UV-98PLUS, while owners report 4.5 stars across over 10,000 reviews compared to 4.0 stars from just 16 reviews. The Y23UV-98PLUS does offer higher transmit power at 10W and adds APRS and GPS features that the UV-5R lacks, but these advantages don't overcome its substantial cost premium and far thinner owner feedback. The UV-5R also supports CHIRP programming, a practical advantage for managing frequencies.
Buy the UV-5R if you want a proven, affordable entry point to handheld radio with strong owner feedback to back it up. Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS only if you specifically need APRS or GPS capabilities and can accept less owner evidence from the market.
The UV-5R remains the stronger choice for most buyers: it's dramatically cheaper, overwhelmingly better-reviewed, and sufficiently capable for general handheld use.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Absolute beginner on a tight budget
The UV-5R offers excellent entry-level features and is significantly cheaper to start with.
UV-5ROperator needing APRS tracking and GPS
The Y23UV-98PLUS includes dedicated APRS and GPS features essential for tracking operations.
Y23UV-98PLUSCasual local repeater monitoring
Its lightweight design and focus on local work make it perfect for simple monitoring tasks.
UV-5RPortable field use and camping operations
The higher power and added features make the Y23UV-98PLUS better for varied field conditions.
Y23UV-98PLUSUser prioritizing maximum channel memory
The Y23UV-98PLUS offers 1024 channels, far exceeding the UV-5R's capacity.
Y23UV-98PLUS
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R
- 78% cheaper ($17.17 vs $78.28)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
- 33% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5R
$17.17 on AmazonY23UV-98PLUSPICK
$78.28 on AmazonKeep researching
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