RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Plus vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus
Our pick
Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus$179.99
The UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner for most buyers. Both radios lack digital modes and offer CHIRP compatibility, making the specs essentially tied on features. The UV-5RM Plus costs one third the price of the KG-UV9D Plus while delivering twice the transmit power at 10W versus 5W. Owners of the UV-5RM Plus report a 4.6 out of 5 rating from 352 reviews, while the KG-UV9D Plus scores 4.2 out of 5 from just 42 reviews. The larger sample size for the UV-5RM Plus provides stronger buyer feedback.
The single most important differentiator is price combined with transmit power. You are paying significantly more for the Wouxun while getting half the output and a lighter radio that may not matter in the field.
The UV-5RM Plus suits budget-conscious operators who want solid power output and want to hear from real-world users. The KG-UV9D Plus makes sense only if weight savings matter more than cost and power, though its thinner review base offers less evidence.
Buy the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus unless weight is a priority over budget and performance.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensed Technician operator
Its beginner score and CHIRP programming support make it the easier starting point for a new licensee.
UV-5RM PlusBudget-conscious buyer
It costs far less than the alternative while offering a higher value score and more transmit power.
UV-5RM PlusEmergency preparedness or field team
Its 10W output and CHIRP support suit field and EmComm use better than the 5W alternative.
UV-5RM PlusCarry-everywhere operator wanting lighter kit
At 250g it is lighter than the alternative, which matters for long hikes or pack weight.
KG-UV9D PlusAirband and broadcast frequency listener
Its listed suitability for airband and broadcast monitoring fits listeners more than the alternative's repeater focus.
KG-UV9D Plus
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus
- 40g lighter (250g vs 290g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM PlusPICK
Search on AmazonWouxun KG-UV9D Plus
$179.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads