Baofeng
Baofeng 5RM 3800mAh
The 5RM offers reliable, high-spec performance for the budget-conscious operator. CHIRP compatibility and a large battery make it a solid entry point.
★★★★⯪4.6(55 reviews)
Amazon's Choice
CHIRP
$60–$60
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New hobbyists starting out
- ✓Budget-conscious field operators
- ✓Local repeater monitoring
- ✓General amateur radio use
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Advanced digital mode enthusiasts
- ✕Operators needing advanced features
- ✕Professional commercial dispatch use
The good and the bad
What we like
- CHIRP compatibility for easy setup
- 3800 mAh battery for extended runtime
- 10W output power for its class
- USB-C charging convenience (Review 1)
- Excellent value for the price point
What we don't
- Performance may trail higher-end models
- Limited advanced feature depth
- May lack premium build quality
Proprietary RR Score
How we scored it
72
GoodValue
93
Features
30
Beginner
85
Portability
63
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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10.00W
TX Power
3800mAh
Battery
999
Channels
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Battery and Charging
Users appreciate the large battery and USB-C charging.
4.5
Programming Ease
The radio programs easily, even for beginners.
4.3
Signal Strength
Reported good range and clear signal reception.
4.2
Value Proposition
Considered a great, affordable radio purchase.
4.4
★★★★⯪4.6(55 Amazon reviews)
5 star
76%
4 star
16%
3 star
3%
2 star
5%
1 star
0%
Overview
The Baofeng 5RM is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians and budget-conscious operators who need a functional VHF/UHF handheld without a steep entry cost. At $59.98 for two radios, it competes in the crowded sub-$30-per-unit tier where Baofeng has always lived. Don't expect feature depth here; this is a get-on-the-air tool, not a shack centerpiece.
The 10W rated output is a reasonable claim for a radio in this class, and the 3800mAh battery should give you extended runtime on local repeaters without mid-day charging. CHIRP compatibility is the most practically important spec on this sheet; it means you can program 999 channels without wrestling with the front panel, which matters when you're getting started. The color screen and ergonomic body are minor conveniences, not differentiators.
There is no stated water resistance, no warranty, and no indication of advanced digital mode support like DMR or APRS. For a ham who wants inexpensive analog VHF/UHF coverage and easy CHIRP programming, this fills that role adequately. If you need anything beyond basic FM operation, look further up the market.
Specifications
| Price | $59.98 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 |
| Battery | 3800 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD |
| FCC ID | 2AJGM-5RM |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 11 |
| FCC Grant Date | 2024-02-23 |
| color | Black |
| unitCount | 2 |
| Color | Black |
| Tuner Type | VHF UHF |
| Model Number | 5RM |
| Built-In Media | 2XRadio |
| Frequency Range | Receiving Frequency Range:108MHZ-136MHZ,136MHZ-174MHZ,220MHZ-260MHZ,350MHZ-390MHZ,400MHZ-520MHZ, Transmitting Frequency Range:144MHZ-148MHZ,420MHZ-450MHZ |
| Compatible Devices | Baofeng radios on same frequency, compatible headsets |
| Additional Features | Battery Saver Mode, Long Range, Portable, Rechargable, Weather Alert |
| Warranty Description | NO |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Key Features
- TX output rated at 10W on VHF (144-148 MHz) and UHF (420-450 MHz)
- Receive coverage spans 108-520 MHz across five non-continuous bands
- 999 memory channels programmable via CHIRP
- 3800mAh battery included; charges via USB-C
- 1.77-inch color display
- No water resistance rating; not suitable for wet environments
- No DMR, APRS, or digital mode support; analog FM only
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What Customers Say
★★★★★Baofeng 5RM 10W
Can’t go wrong with Baofeng. Love the larger battery and the additional antennas. Love the 5RM model because it allows the USB C charging. Total game changer because I can charge this in my car without worry. Definitely a great deal and great value. Range is great and the functionality is great as w...
Victor Trang·Feb 13, 2026·Verified Purchase
★★★★★Impressive radio for its type
This radio is exactly as advertised. The range and clarity is impressive for its type and transmitting power. I strongly recommend this radio, and will most definitely purchase another pair.
Recardo Fitzroy Woodley·Apr 19, 2026·Verified Purchase
★★★★★Good price with Every accessory included.
Even though these were delayed a week due to weather conditions, they arrived safely and work as intended. Came with every accessory possible for these radios, even included the software to program these (which I cannot review because I do things the old fashioned way) as far as longevity, battery l...
Frank Carnevale·Feb 5, 2026·Verified Purchase