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RadioRanked

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro vs Retevis RA89

The Baofeng UV-5RM Pro is the clear winner here. It offers substantially better overall performance with a score of 77 versus 58, while costing only six dollars more.

The most important differentiator is feature completeness. The UV-5RM Pro includes GPS and APRS functionality, making it genuinely useful for location tracking and emergency situations. The RA89's specifications are frustratingly incomplete, with unknown transmit power and weight, which itself raises red flags about the radio's documentation and support quality.

The UV-5RM Pro's 10W output is confirmed and respectable for a handheld, while we simply don't know what the RA89 delivers. The UV-5RM Pro's only disadvantage is lacking CHIRP support, but this is minor since the radio likely has adequate programming options through other means.

Buy the Baofeng UV-5RM Pro if you want a capable handheld with modern features and reliable manufacturer specifications. Buy the Retevis RA89 only if CHIRP compatibility is absolutely critical to your workflow and you're willing to accept unknown performance characteristics.

We recommend the Baofeng UV-5RM Pro for nearly all users seeking a dependable dual-band handheld with practical features at a reasonable price.

Winner
Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
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Runner-up
Retevis RA89
Retevis RA89
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See full review and specs

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-focused buyer on a tight spending limit

    It costs less than the alternative while offering more channels, higher power, and APRS support.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham

  • Operator wanting APRS and GPS position reporting

    Only this model includes APRS and GPS, giving it a clear feature advantage.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham

  • ARES or RACES emergency field deployment

    Its IP68 rating suits rough field deployments where weather and dust are constant concerns.

    Retevis RA89

  • Adverse weather backup radio buyer

    Its listed IP68 rating offers stronger protection against rain and dust for a backup radio.

    Retevis RA89

  • First-time licensee wanting the easiest start

    Its beginner-friendly profile rates higher, making it the gentler first handheld.

    Retevis RA89

  • Summit or campsite portable operator

    Higher transmit power and APRS support suit summit and campsite operating better.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

  • 3x more memory channels (640 vs 200)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis RA89

  • 6g lighter (295g vs 301g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP68 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM ProSpecRetevis RA89
66
Overall Score
49
+35% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
640
Memory Channels
200
3.2× difference
301g
Weight
295g
+2% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
Color LCD
Display
LCD
—
IP Rating
IP68
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
Black-2
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
dual band
UV-5RM
Model Number
RA89
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 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, 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
Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories
Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range
24 Hours
Battery Average Life
75 Hours
1 Year
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM ProPICK

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Retevis RA89

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