RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radtel RT-860
Our pick
Radtel RT-860$36.99
The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner for most users.
The single most important differentiator is price-to-spec value. The UV-5RM Plus costs $21 more but delivers confirmed 10W transmit power, CHIRP software compatibility for easier programming, and substantially better owner feedback. Baofeng owners report 4.6 out of 5 stars across 352 reviews, while Radtel owners report 3.9 out of 5 across 139 reviews. We lack the Radtel's transmit power specification, so direct power comparison is impossible, but the UV-5RM Plus offers more transparent specs overall.
The UV-5RM Plus scores 71 out of 100 compared to the Radtel's 45, meaning you get better listed specifications for the money. Both radios share the same feature set otherwise: no DMR, APRS, or GPS on either model. The Radtel is slightly lighter at 255g versus 290g, a marginal practical difference.
The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus suits buyers who want proven owner satisfaction and straightforward PC programming. The Radtel suits only budget-conscious buyers willing to accept less owner support and missing specification data.
Buy the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus unless your budget is absolutely fixed below $40.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time technician
Costs less than the alternative while covering the same VHF and UHF repeater and simplex work.
RT-860New licensee wanting programming flexibility
CHIRP support and a higher feature score make it easier to program and customize channels.
UV-5RM PlusField and emergency communications team
Its 10W output gives more reach than the alternative for emergency and field coordination.
UV-5RM PlusLightweight portable operator on foot
At 255 grams it is lighter than the alternative for long carries and pack weight.
RT-860Operator needing maximum channel memory
Its 1024 channels exceed the alternative's 999 for large channel lists.
RT-860Local repeater monitoring newcomer
CHIRP compatibility and a higher beginner-friendliness rating simplify repeater channel setup.
UV-5RM Plus
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860
- 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
- 11% more battery (2000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- 35g lighter (255g vs 290g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-860
$36.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads