RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radtel RT-880
Our pick
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus$69.99
The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner here. With a 19-point overall score advantage and a $14 lower price, it's difficult to justify the Radtel RT-880 for most users.
The most important differentiator is the overall score gap combined with cost. The UV-5RM Plus scored 71/100 while the RT-880 managed only 52/100, yet costs less. The UV-5RM Plus also offers confirmed 10W transmit power and CHIRP compatibility for programming flexibility, while the RT-880's transmit power is unspecified and lacks CHIRP support.
The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus suits budget-conscious beginners and experienced operators who want reliable dual-band performance at an unbeatable price point. The Radtel RT-880 might appeal only to users with very specific feature requirements not covered here or those who've personally tested it and prefer its ergonomics.
We recommend the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus without reservation. It delivers superior value, better documentation of specifications, and proven software support. Unless you have specific reasons to prefer the RT-880, spending less for a significantly higher-rated radio is the obvious choice.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee on a tight budget
Its lower price and beginner-friendly features make it an excellent starting point.
UV-5RM PlusExperienced operator needing maximum channels
The higher channel count and multi-band support suit advanced operational needs.
RT-880Local emergency communications monitoring
Its strong local repeater monitoring capability is ideal for field teams.
UV-5RM PlusAdvanced user needing robust multi-region coverage
The additional channel capacity and multi-band support cover diverse operational areas.
RT-880Budget-conscious operator needing basic functionality
It offers necessary features at a very low cost for new hobbyists.
UV-5RM Plus
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 5% cheaper ($69.99 vs $74.00)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880
- 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
- 33% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK
$69.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-880
$74.00 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

