RadioRanked verdict
Baofeng
Baofeng UV-5R Plus
The UV-5R Plus is an entry-level, functional handheld that excels in basic VHF/UHF operation. Its primary value lies in its affordability and CHIRP compatibility for quick setup.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New HAM radio operators starting out
- ✓Emergency preparedness and backup comms
- ✓Casual VHF/UHF field operation
- ✓Budget-conscious radio enthusiasts
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Operators needing published TX power
- ✕Users requiring advanced radio features
- ✕Professionals needing guaranteed reliability
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- Highly affordable entry-level platform
- CHIRP compatibility simplifies setup
- Dual VHF/UHF band operation
- Serviceable battery and memory capacity
What we don't
- TX power specs are not published
- Programming via keypad is tedious
- Build quality is basic for price
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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1800mAh
Battery
128
Channels
250g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Value and Price
Users praise the excellent performance relative to the low cost.
CHIRP Compatibility
Software compatibility makes programming much easier.
Durability and Build
The radio is reported as surprisingly durable for its price.
Operational Limitations
Some users noted issues with included accessories.
Overview
If you just passed your Technician exam and want a functional VHF/UHF FM handheld without committing serious money to the hobby, the UV-5R Plus is the obvious starting point. It sits at the low end of the market in price and capability, and it makes no apologies for either.
CHIRP compatibility is the single most practical feature here. Programming via keypad is tedious and error-prone on this platform, so the ability to use CHIRP to load repeater data quickly is less a bonus and more a necessity. The 1800mAh battery and 128-channel memory are serviceable for casual VHF/UHF FM operation, though TX power specs are not published by Baofeng for this variant, which is a transparency issue worth noting. The radio scores very well for beginner accessibility and very poorly on features.
The UV-5R Plus is a radio you buy to get on the air cheaply while you figure out what you actually need. It is not weather-resistant, carries no warranty, and will likely be replaced once you develop specific operating habits. Buy it if budget is the hard constraint; skip it if you already know you want digital modes, durability, or reliable published specs.
Specifications
| Price | $33.28 |
| Memory Channels | 128 |
| Weight | 250g |
| Battery | 1800 mAh |
| FCC Authorization | Covers the electronics only (Part 15B) |
| FCC ID | 2AJGM-UV5R |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 15B |
| FCC Grant Date | 2020-11-03 |
| size | Black-2Pack-AR-771 |
| color | Black-2Pack-AR-771 |
| unitCount | 2 |
| Color | Black-2Pack-AR-771 |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Tuner Type | VHF UHF |
| Model Number | UV-5R |
| Built-In Media | 2X1800mAh battery, 2XBelt&Sling, 2xAR-771, 2xRadio, Earpiece |
| Frequency Range | VHF UHF |
| Mfr Part Number | FR1024-677 |
| Compatible Devices | Two-way radios supporting UHF VHF frequencies |
| Additional Features | Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Long Range, Rechargable |
| Battery Average Life | 24 Hours |
| Warranty Description | no |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 2.17"D x 1.38"W x 3.94"H |
Key Features
- Dual-band VHF/UHF FM operation; no DMR, no digital modes
- CHIRP-compatible; strongly recommended over manual keypad programming
- 128 memory channels with dual-display and dual-standby capability
- 1800mAh Li-Ion battery included; two batteries shipped in the bundle
- VFO mode supported alongside memory channel operation
- Not water resistant; avoid wet conditions entirely
- No stated warranty from manufacturer
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 Plus.
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Baofeng UV-5R Plus in Our Guides & Reviews
What Customers Say
The Baofeng UV-5R is hands down the best price-to-performance radio out there! For the cost, you get a dual-band, feature-packed radio that performs just as well as models that are several times more expensive. The signal clarity is excellent, the battery life is solid, and the range is impressive, ...
These multi frequency radios are affordable and easy to use. Having alternative communications could help if the SHTF. Plus, they work where cell phones don't. Good little radios.
Most of you know what you’re here for, so I’m not going to rehash the quality of the radios and core equipment. Everything there is fine.One of the two whip antennae (which I believe are aftermarket by Abree) was defective. I tested it on both radios and it doesn’t work most of the time. As stated, ...