RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro vs Radtel RT-730

Our pick

Radtel RT-730$39.00

The UV-5RM Pro is the better choice overall. Both radios deliver identical transmit power at 10W, but the UV-5RM Pro offers GPS and APRS capabilities that the RT-730 lacks, making it significantly more capable for users who need location tracking or packet radio. The RT-730's advantage is CHIRP programming support and a lower price point.

Owners report higher satisfaction with the UV-5RM Pro at 4.5 out of 5 stars across 394 reviews compared to the RT-730's 4.1 stars from 176 reviews. This suggests UV-5RM Pro owners are more satisfied with their purchase, though both radios receive positive feedback overall.

The UV-5RM Pro costs $21 more but gains dual features that extend its utility for specialized amateur radio activities. The RT-730 appeals to budget-conscious buyers who want basic handheld functionality with easier programming via CHIRP and don't need GPS or APRS.

Buy the UV-5RM Pro if you want the extra features and higher owner satisfaction. Buy the RT-730 if your budget is tight and CHIRP programming is essential to your workflow. The UV-5RM Pro represents better overall value for most users.

Winner

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

Good

Search on Amazon

See full review and specs

Runner-up

Radtel RT-730

$39.00

Good

$39.00 on Amazon

See full review and specs

By use case

Which should you buy?

Budget-constrained first-time licensee
It costs less and its higher beginner score makes it a gentle first radio for new licensees.
RT-730
Field day backup radio buyer
Its lower price makes it an inexpensive spare that still delivers 10W on VHF and UHF.
RT-730
Digital-free CHIRP programming enthusiast
It lists CHIRP support as its headline feature and suits operators who prioritize that programming path.
RT-730
Summit on the air portable operator
APRS and GPS support help activators track position and report activity while operating from remote summits.
UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
Public service volunteer in the field
Its 640-channel memory and higher feature score cover the wider channel lists used in public service work.
UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
Outdoor scout and camping communicator
Built-in APRS and GPS let groups share location and stay coordinated during outdoor trips.
UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham

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

Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM ProSpecRadtel RT-730

—

Price

$39.00

Overall Score

+5% 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

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?