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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro vs Radtel RT-730

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro$59.99

The UV-5RM Pro is the stronger choice for most users. Both radios match on transmit power at 10W, but the UV-5RM Pro adds APRS and GPS capabilities that the RT-730 lacks, making it more versatile for mobile or emergency applications. The UV-5RM Pro owners report 4.5/5 stars across 394 reviews versus the RT-730's 4.1/5 from 176 reviews, indicating broader user satisfaction. The RT-730 does support CHIRP programming while the UV-5RM Pro does not, which matters if you prefer computer-based frequency management. We lack the RT-730's weight specification, so we cannot compare portability directly. At $21 less, the RT-730 appeals to budget-conscious buyers who need basic VHF/UHF capability and CHIRP support. The UV-5RM Pro justifies its higher price through added navigation and positioning features plus stronger owner feedback from a larger user base. Buy the UV-5RM Pro if you want GPS and APRS or plan mobile use. Buy the RT-730 if your budget is tight, you need CHIRP programming, and GPS is unnecessary. The UV-5RM Pro is the more complete radio for typical amateur deployments.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner needing advanced features (APRS, GPS)

    The UV-5RM Pro offers superior feature sets like APRS and GPS for modern operations.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Budget-focused ham needing CHIRP flexibility

    The RT-730 provides excellent CHIRP support at a significantly lower price point.

    RT-730
  • POTA/SOTA operators needing maximum functionality

    Its inclusion of GPS and APRS makes it ideal for structured outdoor activations.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Field day backup radio prioritizing reliability

    The RT-730's focus on core functionality makes it a reliable backup unit.

    RT-730
  • Operator needing advanced digital mode support

    The RT-730's CHIRP support is crucial for advanced digital mode programming.

    RT-730

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

  • 3x more memory channels (640 vs 199)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730

  • 35% cheaper ($39.00 vs $59.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM ProSpecRadtel RT-730
$59.99
Price
$39.00
77
Overall Score
63
+22% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
640
Memory Channels
199
3.2× difference
301g
Weight
—
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
Color LCD
Display
LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black-2
color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
Black-2
Color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-5RM
Model Number
RT-730
2×BAOFENG 5RM radio, 2×2500mAh lithium-ion battery; 2×original headphones; 2×hand microphone; 2×BF-771 high gain antenna; 2×original antenna; 2×power adapter; 2×belt clip ; 2 × hand strap; 1 × programming cable; 1 × user manual
Built-In Media
1 RT-730 Ham Radio, 1xProgramming Cable,1x 2500mAh Li-ion Battery Pack, 1x Standard Long Antenna, 1x Desktop charger, 1x belt clip, 1x user manual
Hand Microphone, Original Headphones, High Gain Antennas (BF-771), Original Antennas, Other Two-Way Radios using the same frequency bands and channels
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on the same frequency band, compatible accessories like headsets, earpieces, or external antennas, and computers for programming.
Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
16-630Mhz Receiver, Long Range, High quality resolution LCD, Type C charging, Full band radio am/fm/air/cb/ham/noaa/short wave receiver
1 Year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM ProPICK

$59.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-730

$39.00 on Amazon

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