Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5RM Plus$69.99

The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner here. Despite costing half the price of the Retevis RT95, it delivers superior performance with a confirmed 10W transmit power and substantially higher overall rating of 71 versus 53. Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, and both support CHIRP programming, so the feature set is essentially equivalent.

The single most important differentiator is the price-to-performance ratio. The UV-5RM Plus costs $60 and scores 18 points higher on RadioRanked's evaluation scale, while the RT95's specifications are less transparent and it commands double the investment.

The UV-5RM Plus suits budget-conscious operators and newcomers who want proven reliability without spending unnecessary money on a radio that scores significantly lower. The RT95 might appeal only to those with specific preferences not captured in this comparison data or those who prefer Retevis brand support, though the numbers don't justify the premium.

For most amateur radio operators, the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the recommended choice. You'll get better performance at a fraction of the cost, leaving your budget available for quality antennas or other essential equipment.

Runner-up
Retevis RT95

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee on a tight budget

    Its low price and high channel count make it an excellent starting radio.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Operator needing dual-band capability

    The RT95 is specifically designed for dual-band operation, expanding your frequency range.

    Retevis RT95
  • Portable field team or emergency comms

    The UV-5RM Plus offers high power and robust features ideal for field deployments.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Home base station experimentation

    Its design supports home base setups, allowing for more complex radio experimentation.

    Retevis RT95
  • Budget-conscious beginner needing local monitoring

    It provides ample features and power for local monitoring without breaking the bank.

    UV-5RM Plus

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

  • 50% cheaper ($69.99 vs $139.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusSpecRetevis RT95
$69.99
Price
$139.99
71
Overall Score
49
+45% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
999
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
1800 mAh
Battery
Color LCD
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black 2Pack Full Kit
color
Black
2
unitCount
11
Black 2Pack Full Kit
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
13.8 Volts
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
Dual band
UV-5RM
Model Number
RT95
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 RT95 Mobile radio, 1 x Power cable, 1 x Handheld mic, 1 x One pack of screw and accessories, 1 x User’s manual, 1 x Magnet Mount Antenna
136-512 MHz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios
Compatible Devices
Vehicle power supplies, microphones, external antennas, other two-way radios on the same frequency band
Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging
Additional Features
Dual Band, Dual Band Mobile Transceiver; Mobile Two Way Radio;Mobile Radio for RV Offroad 4x4, Emergency Alarm
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
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK

$69.99 on Amazon

Retevis RT95

$139.99 on Amazon

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons