RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radtel RT-493
Top pick
Radtel RT-493$32.99
The UV-5RM Plus is the stronger choice for most users. Both radios share identical transmit power and lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, or GPS. The key differentiator is CHIRP compatibility: the UV-5RM Plus supports this programming software, making frequency management significantly easier, while the RT-493 requires manual programming. This matters more than the modest weight difference or $27 price gap.
Owner feedback favors the UV-5RM Plus, with 4.6 out of 5 stars across 352 Amazon reviews compared to the RT-493's 4.1 stars from 135 reviews. That larger review pool and higher rating suggest more consistent owner satisfaction, though we cannot assess build quality or long-term reliability from these numbers alone.
The UV-5RM Plus's 71 overall score reflects better specifications relative to current pricing than the RT-493's 59 score, driven primarily by the CHIRP advantage and stronger owner ratings.
Buy the UV-5RM Plus if you want easier programming and a radio backed by more owner reports. Choose the RT-493 only if budget is your absolute priority and you're comfortable with manual channel entry.
We recommend the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus for the majority of amateur radio users entering the hobby.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensed operator wanting an easy-to-program radio
Dual VHF and UHF bands, 999 memories, and CHIRP programming make it the easier learning radio.
UV-5RM PlusBudget-constrained buyer needing basic analog communication
Costs less than the alternative while still delivering 10W UHF output for basic analog communication.
RT-493Outdoor operator needing a rugged handheld
Its IP67 rating handles rain, dust, and brief submersion, which the Baofeng does not list.
RT-493GMRS or business frequency user
UHF-only coverage suits GMRS and business frequency use without paying for VHF capability.
RT-493VHF and UHF repeater monitoring
Covering both VHF and UHF lets it monitor the most local repeaters and channels.
UV-5RM Plus
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 5x more memory channels (999 vs 199)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-493
- 56% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- 10g lighter (280g vs 290g)
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-493
$32.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads