RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radtel RT-470X
Our pick
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus$59.99
The UV-5RM Plus offers better listed specifications for the money, earning a 71/100 RadioRanked score versus the RT-470X's 66/100. The Baofeng delivers known 10W transmission power, while the Radtel's power output is undocumented. Both radios share identical feature sets—no DMR, APRS, or GPS—and both support CHIRP programming. The UV-5RM Plus is slightly heavier at 290g versus 267g, though this difference is negligible.
The single most important differentiator is the documented TX power. Knowing you get 10W from the UV-5RM Plus matters; the RT-470X leaves this critical specification unknown. Owners report both radios favorably, with the UV-5RM Plus earning 4.6/5 stars from 352 reviews and the RT-470X earning 4.1/5 from 256 reviews.
The UV-5RM Plus suits buyers who want confirmed specs and proven owner satisfaction, while the RT-470X appeals to those prioritizing lowest cost and willing to accept incomplete specifications.
For most users, the UV-5RM Plus is the safer choice. You pay double but gain transparency on power output and stronger owner feedback. The RT-470X is only preferable if budget is absolute priority and you can contact Radtel for TX power specs.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New license holder needing basic repeater access
Its higher power and more channels make it better for initial repeater monitoring.
UV-5RM PlusUltra budget-conscious beginner for local simplex use
This radio offers sufficient features and multi-band reception at a lower price point.
RT-470XEmergency communications or field team operations
The higher transmit power and expanded memory support field team reliability.
UV-5RM PlusCasual local hobbyist focused on simplicity and low cost
It provides enough functionality for casual local use without the higher initial cost.
RT-470XOperator needing advanced repeater access and more channels
The significantly higher channel count and power support complex repeater networks.
UV-5RM Plus
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 4x more memory channels (999 vs 256)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X
- 50% cheaper ($29.99 vs $59.99)
- 56% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- 23g lighter (267g vs 290g)
- IP54 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK
$59.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-470X
$29.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads