RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radtel RT-920
Our pick
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus$59.99
The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the stronger choice for most users. Both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS, putting them on equal footing for core features. The UV-5RM Plus pulls ahead with 10W transmit power versus the RT-920's 8W, CHIRP compatibility for easier programming, and stronger owner feedback: 4.6/5 across 352 Amazon reviews versus 4.3/5 from 119 reviews. The RT-920's weight is unlisted, so we cannot compare portability. At $60 versus $47, the UV-5RM Plus costs $13 more but delivers measurable advantages in power output, programmability, and demonstrated owner satisfaction.
The single most important differentiator is the UV-5RM Plus's CHIRP support, which lets you program frequencies from a computer rather than the radio's keypad alone. This matters significantly for users managing multiple frequencies.
Buy the UV-5RM Plus if you value easier programming, extra transmit power, and stronger owner consensus. Buy the RT-920 only if budget is your absolute priority and you can tolerate keypad-only programming.
The UV-5RM Plus is the better investment for the marginal cost.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New license holder starting out
Its higher power and more channels offer better room for learning and growth.
UV-5RM PlusBudget-conscious field monitoring
The slightly lower price and Bluetooth connectivity are ideal for simple field use.
RT-920Emergency preparedness or EmComm
The higher TX power and robust features make it better for critical communication scenarios.
UV-5RM PlusBeginner exploring ham radio basics
Its simpler feature set and lower cost make it less overwhelming for a novice user.
RT-920Operator needing local repeater monitoring
The superior channel count and higher power are better suited for reliable repeater access.
UV-5RM Plus
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
- 4% more memory channels (999 vs 960)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- 22% cheaper ($47.04 vs $59.99)
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK
$59.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-920
$47.04 on AmazonMore head-to-heads