RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Baofeng UV-5RM Pro vs Retevis A3
Our pick
Baofeng UV-5RM Pro$59.99
The Baofeng UV-5RM Pro is the clear winner here. This comparison heavily favors the Baofeng across nearly every measurable dimension, from price to features to overall performance.
The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The Baofeng includes GPS and APRS capability—practical tools for emergency communication and location tracking—while the Retevis A3 offers neither. The Baofeng also delivers specified 10W transmission power, whereas the Retevis specs are completely unknown. The Baofeng's overall score of 77/100 versus the A3's 30/100 tells you everything about real-world testing results.
The Baofeng UV-5RM Pro is the obvious choice for anyone wanting a capable, affordable handheld with modern features and proven performance. The Retevis A3 might appeal only to someone with a very tight budget and no feature requirements, though even then the unknown specifications and poor testing scores make it a risky purchase.
Buy the Baofeng. It costs less, works better, and comes packed with features the Retevis lacks entirely. Unless you find the A3 at a significant discount and have zero need for GPS or APRS, there's no practical reason to choose it over the Baofeng's superior value proposition.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New HAM operator needing digital modes
Its APRS and GPS features make it ideal for modern field operations.
UV-5RM Plus GPS HamBudget-conscious NOAA monitoring setup
It offers basic multi-band coverage for simple, analog monitoring tasks.
A3Portable SOTA/POTA field activations
The combination of GPS and high power supports complex outdoor deployments.
UV-5RM Plus GPS HamBeginner needing basic repeater access
Its simple analog design is perfect for learning basic VHF/UHF repeater usage.
A3Advanced user needing IP connectivity
The built-in digital features support modern, connected radio operations.
UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
- 14% cheaper ($59.99 vs $69.99)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 56% more memory channels (999 vs 640)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-5RM ProPICK
$59.99 on AmazonRetevis A3
$69.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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