RadioRanked verdict
Baofeng
Baofeng UV-5R
The UV-5R is a reliable, budget-friendly entry radio. Its CHIRP compatibility and dual-band capability make it a practical starting point for new operators.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New HAM radio hobbyists
- ✓Local repeater monitoring/work
- ✓Budget-conscious field use
- ✓Introductory radio experimentation
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Contest radio operations
- ✕Heavy-duty field workhorses
- ✕Operators needing IP rating
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- Excellent price point for entry radio
- Full CHIRP compatibility for programming
- Dual-band VHF/UHF functionality
- 128 memory channels available
- Highly reliable for basic local comms
What we don't
- No IP rating for outdoor use
- Battery life could be an upgrade
- Range is expectedly short
- Basic, entry-level radio design
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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5.00W
TX Power
1800mAh
Battery
128
Channels
250g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Affordability and value
Buyers praise the radio's unbeatable price point.
Ease of use
The radio is described as simple and intuitive.
Outdoor reliability
It is seen as a dependable companion for adventures.
Programming flexibility
CHIRP support is highlighted as a key feature.
Overview
The UV-5R is the entry point for a reason. At $16, it's the radio you hand a new Technician before they decide whether this hobby sticks, and it covers the two bands that matter most for local repeater work on VHF and UHF. It is not a shack anchor, a go-bag workhorse, or a contest radio.
What it does do, it does cheaply and adequately. Five watts on high, one watt on low, 128 memory channels, and full CHIRP compatibility mean you can program it sanely without wrestling the keypad. CHIRP support is the single most practical feature here; without it, the native menu system would test the patience of even experienced operators. Beginner-friendliness scores well in our engine, which tracks.
At this price, the trade-offs are real and worth naming. There is no IP rating, so keep it out of the rain. Features are thin by any measure, and TX power tops out where budget radios typically do. Buy it as a loaner, a backup, or a first radio for a new ham. If you already have a license and a use case, spend more.
Specifications
| Price | $15.99 |
| TX Power (High) | 5.00W |
| TX Power (Low) | 1.00W |
| Memory Channels | 128 |
| Weight | 250g |
| Dimensions | 58x32x110 mm |
| Battery | 1800 mAh Li-ion |
| Display | LCD |
| RX Range | 65.0000–108.0000 MHz |
| TX Range | 136.0000–174.0000 MHz |
| FCC ID | 2AJGM-UV5R |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 15B |
| FCC Grant Date | 2020-11-03 |
| color | Blue |
| unitCount | 1 |
| releaseDate | 2012-03-12T00:00:01Z |
| UPC | 653391505106 |
| Color | Blue |
| Voltage | 4 Volts |
| Tuner Type | VHF/UHF 144-148 mhz / 420-450mhz |
| Model Number | Baofeng UV-5R+ blue |
| Built-In Media | 1 x BaoFeng UV-5R Two-Way Radio 1 x 7.4V 1800mAh Li-ion Battery Pack 1 x Antenna 1 x Earphone Mic/Headset 1 x Belt Clip 1 x Hand Strap 1 x ENG Manual 1 x Adapter 1 x Desktop Charger |
| Mfr Part Number | 2698812239 |
| Waterproof Rating | IPX7 |
| Compatible Devices | UV-5R series accessories |
| Additional Features | Keypad Lock |
| Battery Average Life | 72 Hours |
| Warranty Description | No |
| Connectivity Protocol | VHF/UHF |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.2"D x 2.1"W x 10.2"H |
Key Features
- Dual-band VHF (144-148 MHz) and UHF (420-450 MHz) coverage; no out-of-band TX
- 5W high / 1W low TX power; no mid-power option stated in spec data
- 128 memory channels with 50 CTCSS and 104 CDCSS tone options
- CHIRP-compatible; strongly recommended over native keypad programming
- Dual-band simultaneous display with A/B independent operation and dual standby
- Busy channel lockout (BCLO) and keypad lock supported
- Not water resistant; unsuitable for outdoor use without additional protection
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Baofeng UV-5R.
Similar Radios
Baofeng UV-5R in Our Guides & Reviews
What Customers Say
An absolute classic for a reason. For the price, you simply cannot beat the value and versatility of the UV-5R. The build quality is surprisingly rugged, and it feels solid in the hand. It’s a great entry-level radio for anyone getting into ham radio, but it’s also a reliable backup for seasoned ope...
Def and absolutely worth the money!!!!! Works very nicely
My rating reflects the value for the price and not necessarily a flawless product. At time of purchase in Q4 2025, the cost was ~$16.50.The Baofeng UV-5R is a good entry point into amateur radio. You can fairly easily exchange antennas, and listen to regular broadcast FM with or without headphones/e...