Arcshell AR-6 vs Baofeng UV-K5 - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Arcshell AR-6 and Baofeng UV-K5? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.
| Feature | Arcshell AR-6 | Baofeng UV-K5 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Arcshell AR-6 | Baofeng UV-K5 |
| Bands | 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 0/1 | 6/5 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 3.7 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 1500 mAh | 2500 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 690 mAh | 1780 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 240 mm | 328 mm |
| Width | 57 mm | 62 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 28 mm | 53 mm |
| Weight | 164 g | 315 g |
| Color Screen | No | Yes |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | Yes |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | - |
| Price | $26 | $24 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Rating by Price | C | F |
| Rating Overall | D | F |
| Rating Ergonomics | - | C |
| Conclusions | The Arcshell AR-6 is an effective little radio which works exceptionally well for what it costs. When I need an easy, fast, and disposable radio, this is what I reach for. It is hard to go wrong with this radio, grab one, turn to a specific channel, start talking. If you lose it or drop it into a lake, who cares? | The Baofeng UV-K5 Plus is a well-rounded beginner radio with some nice accessories and reasonable performance. Where it really falls short is in its spurious emissions. This is the single worst radio I have ever seen. It is so bad that it single-handedly lowers the average of all Baofeng radios 61% (so I omit it as an outlier). So would I recommend the K5Plus? LOL! There are a ton of better radios out there, pick anything but this. The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is a better radio and a better value. Just stay away from this horrible piece of.....equipment. |