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RadioRanked

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Retevis RA89

The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner for value-conscious buyers. Both radios share nearly identical specifications: no DMR, APRS, or GPS; similar weight; CHIRP compatibility; and the same feature set. The UV-5RM Plus's confirmed 10W transmit power is the single most important differentiator, while the Retevis RA89's output remains unknown. RadioRanked's overall score gap reflects better listed specifications for the money with the Baofeng, reinforced by slightly higher owner satisfaction: 4.6 out of 5 from 352 reviews versus 4.5 out of 5 from 278 reviews.

The UV-5RM Plus should appeal to budget-minded operators who want proven specs and strong owner endorsement at the lowest price. The RA89 might interest those willing to accept missing power data and less documented owner feedback in exchange for a marginally different build, though this remains speculative without that critical specification.

We recommend the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus. Seven dollars cheaper, confirmed higher output, and more owner reviews make it the practical choice when both radios otherwise compete on identical feature ground.

Winner
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
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Runner-up
Retevis RA89
Retevis RA89
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By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New license holders wanting a first handheld

    Its stronger beginner-friendly setup and 999 channels suit a first handheld well.

    UV-5RM Plus

  • Budget-focused buyers on a tight spend

    Costs less while still offering 10W output and 999 memory channels.

    UV-5RM Plus

  • Hikers and outdoor users facing wet weather

    Its IP68 rating handles rain, dust, and submersion, while the Baofeng lists no comparable rating.

    Retevis RA89

  • ARES or RACES field deployment teams

    IP68 sealing suits harsh-weather field deployments, though it holds fewer channels than the Baofeng.

    Retevis RA89

  • Repeater monitoring and high-power operators

    Its 10W output and deep channel bank suit repeater monitoring and longer reach.

    UV-5RM Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)
  • 5g lighter (290g vs 295g)
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis RA89

  • 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • IP68 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusSpecRetevis RA89
59
Overall Score
49
+20% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
999
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
290g
Weight
295g
+2% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+39% for winner
Color LCD
Display
LCD
—
IP Rating
IP68
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
Black 2Pack Full Kit
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
dual band
UV-5RM
Model Number
RA89
2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual
Built-In Media
1 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, User Manual
136-512 MHz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios
Compatible Devices
Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories
Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging
Additional Features
Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range
1 Year
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK

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Retevis RA89

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More head-to-heads

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