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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Quansheng TK11

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus$69.99

The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner here. There's simply no contest when one radio scores 71/100 and the other manages only 26/100.

The single most important differentiator is overall performance and reliability. The UV-5RM Plus delivers proven functionality across the board, while the TK11's significantly lower score suggests meaningful deficiencies in real-world operation, build quality, or user experience that matter far more than any individual spec.

The UV-5RM Plus should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want a capable, dependable handheld without breaking the bank. The TK11 might interest only those with specific niche requirements or an unusual preference for this particular model, though the score suggests even that's a stretch.

At $60 versus $97, the UV-5RM Plus costs less while performing substantially better. Unless you have compelling reasons to choose the TK11, spend your money on the Baofeng. It's the obvious choice for anyone entering the hobby or looking for a reliable backup radio. The $37 price difference only amplifies why the TK11 fails to justify itself.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious new license holder

    It offers far superior features and memory capacity for the low price.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Casual local simplex communication only

    Its simplicity and low cost make it perfect for basic, local analog use.

    TK11
  • Field team needing multiple channels

    The high channel count and CHIRP support are essential for organized field work.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Beginner needing a simple loaner radio

    Its basic nature reduces complexity, making it ideal for a temporary loaner unit.

    TK11
  • Operator needing basic repeater monitoring

    Its superior features and memory management greatly exceed the basic needs of monitoring.

    UV-5RM Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

  • 28% cheaper ($69.99 vs $96.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 67% more battery (3000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusSpecQuansheng TK11
$69.99
Price
$96.99
71
Overall Score
34
2.1× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
999
Memory Channels
999
1800 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+67% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black 2Pack Full Kit
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
Black 2Pack Full Kit
Color
Black
UV-5RM
Model Number
UV-K5
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
Built-In Media
Handheld Radio
136-512 MHz
Frequency Range
350-490 MHz
Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios
Compatible Devices
Smartphone
Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging
Additional Features
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable
1 Year
Warranty Description
This item can be returned in its original condition for a refund or replacement within 30 days of receipt.
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK

$69.99 on Amazon

Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

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