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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro vs Radtel RT-950 PRO

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro$59.99

The Baofeng UV-5RM Pro is the clear winner for most users. Both radios share identical feature sets with APRS and GPS, neither supports DMR, and neither works with CHIRP software. The decisive factor is transmit power. At 10W, the UV-5RM Pro delivers twice the output of the RT-950 PRO's 4W, translating to significantly better range and penetration in real-world conditions. This performance advantage matters considerably for amateur radio work, whether you're mobile, portable, or in challenging terrain.

The price difference of 19 dollars favors the UV-5RM Pro further, giving you more power for less money. The RT-950 PRO's unknown weight is a minor concern, but insufficient to offset its power deficit. Neither radio is CHIRP-compatible, so you'll use manufacturer software for programming either way.

Buy the UV-5RM Pro if you want genuine performance with better value and proven reliability at a lower price point. Choose the RT-950 PRO only if you specifically need the form factor and can accept reduced range from lower transmit power.

For most amateur radio operators, the UV-5RM Pro delivers better capability at a better price.

Winner
Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
Runner-up
Radtel RT-950 PRO

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Ultra-budget first-time operator

    The Baofeng offers excellent entry-level features at a significantly lower price point.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Advanced feature enthusiast needing more channels

    The Radtel provides more memory and Bluetooth connectivity for advanced setup needs.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Portable SOTA/POTA field communication

    Its lighter weight and high TX power make it ideal for long-duration outdoor activations.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Secondary emergency kit radio with modern features

    The extra memory and Bluetooth make it a versatile backup radio for emergencies.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • New operator prioritizing simplicity and low cost

    The Baofeng's straightforward operation and low cost are perfect for beginners.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

  • 34% cheaper ($59.99 vs $91.19)
  • 150% more TX power (10W vs 4W)
  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO

  • 50% more memory channels (960 vs 640)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM ProSpecRadtel RT-950 PRO
$59.99
Price
$91.19
77
Overall Score
77
10.00W
TX Power (High)
4.00W
2.5× difference
640
Memory Channels
960
+49% for winner
301g
Weight
2500 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+14% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black-2
color
Black
Black-2
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
UV-5RM
Model Number
RT-950 PRO
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
1x RT-950 PRO Main unit, 1x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English 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
Smartphones, Desktops
Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
27MHz TX/RX at FM Modulation with power 3-4W,Shortwave ML/LW/SW/USB/LSB/CW Reception, Bluetooth App Programming,High Output Power,GPS/APRS Position Sending, Channel Zone Function,Full-Color Display,PC Programming, Integrated Spectrum Analyzer,Wireless Frequency Copy,NOAA Weather Channel Support
1 Year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM ProPICK

$59.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-950 PRO

$91.19 on Amazon

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