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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Radioddity GD-168$139.99

The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner here. Despite being significantly cheaper at $60 versus $140, it delivers superior performance across measurable criteria and significantly outscores the GD-168 in overall rating.

The single most important differentiator is the overall score gap. The UV-5RM Plus scores 71/100 while the GD-168 languishes at 44/100, a substantial 27-point difference that reflects real-world performance advantages. You're paying more than double the price for a radio that performs worse by every metric we can evaluate. The UV-5RM Plus also features confirmed 10W TX power and CHIRP compatibility, both practical advantages the GD-168 lacks.

The UV-5RM Plus suits budget-conscious operators and beginners who want a capable, reliable handheld without breaking the bank. The GD-168 might appeal only to users with specific form factor preferences or those seeking a particular feature set not reflected in these specs, though the evidence here doesn't support that investment.

Our recommendation is straightforward: buy the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus. You'll save $80 while getting a substantially better radio. The GD-168 represents poor value at its current price point.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained buyer wanting basic VHF and UHF

    It costs considerably less while still covering both VHF and UHF for local repeater use.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Brand-new license holder learning repeater operation

    Its simpler interface and higher beginner score make it a gentler first handheld for new operators.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Field team or emergency communications volunteer

    Its 10W transmit power exceeds the 5W output of the rival, giving more reach in emergency work.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Technician or General digital voice operator

    DMR support lets this radio access digital talkgroups that the Baofeng cannot use.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • APRS user wanting a color display

    Built-in APRS and a color screen make it the better choice for position reporting.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Operator managing large channel lists and contacts

    Storing 4000 channels, far beyond the Baofeng's 999, suits operators with extensive memory needs.

    Radioddity GD-168

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
  • 70g lighter (220g vs 290g)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusSpecRadioddity GD-168
—
Price
$139.99
59
Overall Score
72
+22% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
999
Memory Channels
4000
4.0× difference
290g
Weight
220g
+32% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
Color LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Black
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
Black 2Pack Full Kit
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
UV-5RM
Model Number
GD-168
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
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x 2600mAh Battery, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Adaptor, 1 x Desktop Charger Base, 1 x Type-C Cable (for programming & charging), 1 x GD-168 DMR Radio, 1 x Standard ANT, 1 x 15’’ Long ANT
136-512 MHz
Frequency Range
UHF, VHF
Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios
Compatible Devices
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging
Additional Features
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
1 Year
Warranty Description
18 month warranty
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

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Radioddity GD-168PICK

$139.99 on Amazon

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