Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The UV-5RM Pro is the better choice for most users despite its $10 premium. Both radios deliver identical transmit power, but the Pro's APRS and GPS capabilities provide genuine operational advantages that the Plus cannot match. These features enable location tracking and digital messaging, transforming the radio from a basic transceiver into a more versatile platform. The deciding factor is APRS integration, which appeals to emergency communicators, hikers, and anyone who values position reporting without additional hardware.
The Plus retains one advantage: CHIRP compatibility simplifies programming through your computer, a workflow many operators prefer. However, this doesn't offset losing APRS and GPS entirely. The Pro's slightly higher overall score of 58 versus 55 reflects these practical improvements, though neither radio excels at the advanced features expected from more expensive models.
Buy the Plus if you're budget-constrained, program exclusively via CHIRP, and never need location reporting. Buy the Pro if you operate in emergency contexts, outdoor activities, or want modern conveniences without spending significantly more.
Choose the Pro. The GPS and APRS features justify the modest price increase and provide capabilities you'll actually use.
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 56% more memory channels (999 vs 640)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
- 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng UV-5RM Plus | Baofeng UV-5RM Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $59.99 |
| Overall Score | 71 | 77 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 | 640 |
| Weight | — | 301g |
| Battery | 1800 mAh | 2500 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD | Color LCD |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black 2Pack Full Kit | Black-2 |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts | 7.4 Volts |
| Special Feature | Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging | Battery Saver Mode |
| Included Components | 2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual | 2×BAOFENG 5RM radio, 2×2500mAh lithium-ion battery; 2×original headphones; 2×hand microphone; 2×BF-771 high gain antenna; 2×original antenna; 2×power adapter; 2×belt clip ; 2 × hand strap; 1 × programming cable; 1 × user manual |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF | UHF/VHF |
| Model Number | UV-5RM | UV-5RM |
| Built-In Media | 2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual | 2×BAOFENG 5RM radio, 2×2500mAh lithium-ion battery; 2×original headphones; 2×hand microphone; 2×BF-771 high gain antenna; 2×original antenna; 2×power adapter; 2×belt clip ; 2 × hand strap; 1 × programming cable; 1 × user manual |
| Compatible Devices | Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios | Hand Microphone, Original Headphones, High Gain Antennas (BF-771), Original Antennas, Other Two-Way Radios using the same frequency bands and channels |
| Additional Features | Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging | Battery Saver Mode |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year | 1 Year |