RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Radtel RT-920
Our pick
Radtel RT-920$47.04
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?
First-time licensee learning to program radios
CHIRP support and a higher beginner score make programming and setup easier for a newly licensed operator.
UV-5RM PlusBudget-conscious buyer on a tight purchase budget
It costs less and offers a higher value rating while covering the same VHF and UHF bands.
RT-920Operator needing more transmit power for repeaters
At 10W it outputs more power than the 8W Radtel, which helps reach distant repeaters.
UV-5RM PlusField operator prioritizing a lighter carry
It has a higher portability score, making it the better pick for carrying all day on foot.
RT-920Emergency preparedness team preloading local repeaters
Its larger 999-channel memory and CHIRP support simplify preloading local repeater and emergency frequencies.
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 color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-920PICK
$47.04 on AmazonMore head-to-heads