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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus$69.99

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?

  • First-time licensee on a strict budget

    Its low price point and basic features make it an excellent entry-level radio.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Operator needing high channel capacity

    The 4000 channel memory offers significantly more flexibility than the competitor.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Budget-conscious local repeater monitor

    The UV-5RM Plus provides sufficient power and features for local monitoring tasks.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Technician needing reliable secondary field radio

    Its higher build quality and extensive memory make it a dependable field backup unit.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Advanced user needing modern digital modes

    The inclusion of CHIRP firmware allows for modern digital mode operation.

    UV-5RM Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

  • 50% cheaper ($69.99 vs $139.99)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusSpecRadioddity GD-168
$69.99
Price
$139.99
71
Overall Score
71
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
999
Memory Channels
4000
4.0× 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 2Pack Full Kit
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 PlusPICK

$69.99 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-168

$139.99 on Amazon

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