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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Quansheng UV-K5(8) vs Radtel RT-860

Our pick

Quansheng UV-K5(8)$27.99

The Quansheng UV-K5(8) is the clear winner here. Both radios offer the same core features—no DMR, APRS, or GPS—so the decision comes down to price, power, and what owners report.

The single most important differentiator is value for money. The UV-K5(8) delivers better listed specifications at nearly half the price: 5W of transmit power, CHIRP compatibility for easy programming, and significantly lighter weight. We don't have the Radtel's transmit power specification, so we cannot make a direct power comparison there.

Owner feedback provides real-world perspective. The UV-K5(8) has earned 4.5 stars across 686 Amazon reviews, while the Radtel RT-860 received 3.9 stars from 139 reviews. That's substantial evidence of user satisfaction favoring the Quansheng, and the larger review count gives more confidence in the rating.

The UV-K5(8) should appeal to budget-conscious operators, hobbyists getting started, and anyone prioritizing lightweight portability. The Radtel RT-860 might interest buyers who specifically need its particular feature set or form factor, though that case isn't obvious from the available data.

Buy the Quansheng UV-K5(8) unless the Radtel's unknown specs address a specific need you have.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its extremely low price point makes it ideal for a first radio purchase.

    RT-860
  • Operator needing maximum channel memory

    The 1024 channel memory provides ample space for local repeaters and nets.

    RT-860
  • Field monitor or testing open source firmware

    The radio is specifically recommended for testing and open-source firmware use.

    RT-860
  • Local repeater and basic simplex operations

    Its robust memory and focus on local communication make it a reliable choice.

    RT-860
  • Buyer prioritizing maximum features over cost

    The higher channel count and slightly better feature set give it an edge.

    RT-860
  • Operator needing wideband reception capabilities

    This radio is noted for its ability to handle wideband reception needs.

    RT-860

Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K5(8)

  • 28% cheaper ($27.99 vs $39.00)
  • 55g lighter (200g vs 255g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP65 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 200)
  • 43% more battery (2000 mAh vs 1400 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng UV-K5(8)SpecRadtel RT-860
$27.99
Price
$39.00
70
Overall Score
45
+56% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
—
200
Memory Channels
1024
5.0× difference
200g
Weight
255g
+28% difference
1400 mAh
Battery
2000 mAh
+43% for winner
LCD
Display
—
IP65
IP Rating
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
With SW/MW Antennas
1
unitCount
1
7.1 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception,
UV-K5(8)
Model Number
RT-860
Earphones, Type-C charging devices
Compatible Devices
External antennas (50 ohm)
Dual Band
Additional Features
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
1.48"D x 4.53"W x 1.48"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.18"D x 2.36"W x 4.72"H

Made your choice?

Quansheng UV-K5(8)PICK

$27.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-860

$39.00 on Amazon

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