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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro vs Yaesu FT-60R

Our pick

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro$59.99

The Baofeng UV-5RM Pro is the clear winner in this matchup. Despite the Yaesu's brand prestige, the UV-5RM Pro delivers superior value across nearly every meaningful dimension for amateur radio operations.

The single most important differentiator is the combination of price and features. The UV-5RM Pro costs less than half the price while offering double the transmit power, built-in GPS, and APRS capability—features the Yaesu completely lacks. The Baofeng's 58 overall score also substantially outpaces the Yaesu's 37, reflecting broader performance advantages.

The UV-5RM Pro suits budget-conscious operators who want modern features like position tracking and emergency beacon capability without breaking the bank. The FT-60R is only worth considering if you have specific loyalty to Yaesu's interface or existing ecosystem compatibility that justifies paying a premium for inferior specifications.

For most amateur radio operators evaluating these options, the Baofeng UV-5RM Pro represents the smarter purchase. It offers genuine technical advantages, superior scoring, and exceptional value. The Yaesu's higher price point cannot be justified by the specifications here, making it difficult to recommend unless you have reasons beyond this comparison's scope.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner starting out

    The UV-5RM Pro offers essential features and digital modes at a much lower cost.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Experienced operator needing reliable analog backup

    The FT-60R's pure analog design provides simple, dependable operation for critical comms.

    FT-60R
  • Portable SOTA/POTA activations and scouting

    Its lightweight design and built-in GPS make it ideal for outdoor field deployments.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Technician needing simple repeater monitoring

    The FT-60R's analog simplicity is perfect for monitoring established repeater links.

    FT-60R
  • Operator needing modern digital networking features

    The inclusion of APRS and GPS makes the UV-5RM Pro much more feature-rich.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

  • 71% cheaper ($59.99 vs $209.95)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 79% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • 69g lighter (301g vs 370g)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R

  • 56% more memory channels (1,000 vs 640)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-5RM ProSpecYaesu FT-60R
$59.99
Price
$209.95
77
Overall Score
36
2.1× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
640
Memory Channels
1000
+56% for winner
301g
Weight
370g
+23% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+79% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black-2
color
Black
Black-2
Color
Black
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
UV-5RM
Model Number
FT-60R
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
1400mA Battery, Charger, antenna, belt clip
Hand Microphone, Original Headphones, High Gain Antennas (BF-771), Original Antennas, Other Two-Way Radios using the same frequency bands and channels
Compatible Devices
MH-37A4B, MH-34B4B, E-DC-5B, EDC-6, CT-44, FBA-25A
Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
Weather Alert
1 Year
Warranty Description
3 Years
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-5RM ProPICK

$59.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-60R

$209.95 on Amazon

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