RadioRanked verdict
Baofeng
Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
The UV-5RM Plus is a highly capable, budget-friendly HT for entry-level operators needing robust features like CHIRP compatibility and high channel count.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New license holders
- ✓Budget-conscious operators
- ✓Local repeater monitoring
- ✓EmComm or field teams
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Advanced digital radio users
- ✕Operators needing high power
- ✕Serious long-distance DXing
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- 999-channel memory capacity
- Full CHIRP compatibility for ease
- 10W output power rating
- Dual-band operation
- Good starter kit value
What we don't
- Real-world power may vary
- Budget build quality expected
- Performance depends on LOS
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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10.00W
TX Power
1800mAh
Battery
999
Channels
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Local communication range
Users report reliable local communication links.
Value and package
The radio offers excellent value for money.
Sound quality
Audio is described as clear and distortion-free.
Ease of use
Functionality is straightforward and easy to operate.
Overview
The UV-5RM Plus is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians and budget-conscious operators who need a programmable dual-band HT for local repeater work, simplex monitoring, and NOAA weather scanning without spending serious money. It bundles two radios in the box, which makes it a practical starter kit for households or EmComm teams just building out their gear.
The claimed 10W output is the headline figure here, though real-world performance on budget HTs rarely matches the label. Where this radio genuinely earns its keep is in the 999-channel memory and full CHIRP compatibility, which means you can skip the frustrating front-panel programming entirely and load a repeater directory in minutes. NOAA weather channel scanning is a useful addition for operators in storm-prone regions who want weather alerting without a dedicated receiver.
Without field reports to draw from, the verdict rests on the specs and price alone. At $59.99 for a pair of radios with CHIRP support and a color display, the value proposition is reasonable for new hams or as a loaner rig. Operators needing waterproofing, a verified power output, or more advanced features should look elsewhere.
Specifications
| Price | $59.99 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 |
| Battery | 1800 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD |
| TX Range | 136.0000–174.0000 MHz |
| FCC ID | 2AJGM-5RM |
| FCC Rule Parts | Part 15B |
| FCC Grant Date | 2024-02-23 |
| color | Black 2Pack Full Kit |
| unitCount | 2 |
| Color | Black 2Pack Full Kit |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF |
| Model Number | UV-5RM |
| Built-In Media | 2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual |
| Frequency Range | 136-512 MHz |
| Compatible Devices | Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios |
| Additional Features | Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Key Features
- Dual-band VHF/UHF HT with claimed 10W TX output; actual output typical of class
- Full CHIRP compatibility allows fast, repeatable channel programming via PC
- 999 programmable memory channels; well above average for this price tier
- 1.77-inch color display improves menu legibility over the original UV-5R
- NOAA weather scan across all 10 channels with receive capability
- AM receive included; useful for airband monitoring (TX on airband is not legal)
- Not water resistant; keep it out of rain and field conditions that warrant an IP rating
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Baofeng UV-5RM Plus.
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What Customers Say
Can’t get anything cheaper and for the price they work really well.
I have a bunch of these, good starter radio
I recently purchased the BAOFENG UV-5RM walkie-talkie, and I am truly impressed! As an outdoor enthusiast, I needed a reliable communication device, and this walkie-talkie fits the bill perfectly.First of all, the sound quality is excellent. Whether I’m communicating at a distance or having close co...