Baofeng UV-5R vs Quansheng UV-K1
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng UV-5R is the clear winner here. With a significantly higher overall score of 63 versus 36, this radio delivers substantially better performance and value. The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility, which the UV-5R supports and the UV-K1 does not. This matters because CHIRP programming software makes frequency management dramatically easier, saving you hours of manual button-pushing especially if you work with multiple repeaters or frequencies.
The UV-5R should appeal to beginners and budget-conscious operators who want a reliable entry-level radio with strong community support and proven reliability in the field. The UV-K1 is only worth considering if you find a specific use case that justifies its higher price despite worse performance, which seems unlikely given the current data.
Our recommendation is straightforward: buy the UV-5R. You get better overall performance, CHIRP support, lower cost, and an established track record with active user communities. Unless you have a specific technical requirement the data doesn't show, the choice between these two isn't close.
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R
- 19% cheaper ($28.99 vs $35.98)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K1
- 56% more memory channels (200 vs 128)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng UV-5R | Quansheng UV-K1 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $28.99 | $35.98 |
| Overall Score | 63 | 42 |
| TX Power (High) | — | — |
| Memory Channels | 128 | 200 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 1800 mAh | — |
| Display | — | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Not Found |
| Color | Black | Black with Yellow Antenna |
| Special Feature | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range | Dual Band |
| Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| UPC | 713923481886 | 717206453386 |
| Model Number | BF-UV5R | UV-TK11(8) |
| Built-In Media | 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 | Antenna |
| Compatible Devices | baofeng radio handheld ham radio | QUANSHENG two-way radios, ham radios, devices supporting DTMF Calling, FCC compliant devices |
| Additional Features | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range | Dual Band |
| Warranty Description | 30-day hassle-free return | 2 years |