Baofeng UV-26 vs Baofeng UV-5R - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-26 and Baofeng UV-5R? 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 | Baofeng UV-26 | Baofeng UV-5R |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Baofeng UV-26 | Baofeng UV-5R |
| Bands | 2m, 1.25m, 70cm | 2m/70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 8/4 | 3/1.4 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 2500 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1670 mAh | 1210 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 327 mm | 265 mm |
| Width | 64 mm | 58 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 52 mm | 44 mm |
| Weight | 310 g | 209 g |
| Color Screen | Yes | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | - | LINK |
| Price | $26 | $18 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Receiver Sensitivity 2m/70cm | 133/133 | - |
| Rating by Price | A | A |
| Rating Overall | C | A |
| Rating Ergonomics | B | B |
| Conclusions | Would I recommend this radio? Not on a bet. I like the way it feels mostly, I like the color screen and larger battery, and I like the little touches like the shields for the knob and a couple buttons. What I can’t get over is the spurious emissions. Unfortunately, most people who use or buy this radio will never know that over half their power is going down the drain. Not to mention what all that is going to do to the electronics over time. | The Baofeng UV-5R is a fantastic little radio for the price. Is it as good as a Yaesu FT-60R or Kenwood TH-D74, sorry, it’s not even in the same universe. The great news is that most people don’t really want or need the $200-$500 radio. Sure, they are nice and superior in every possible way, but that isn’t the point. Think of the Baofeng UV-5R in terms of cars, no one who has owned a BMW, a Mercedes, and a Kia will tell you that the Kia is just as good, but if they are being honest, they will tell you all three will get you to Walmart and back with your groceries just as well. The same holds true here. The Baofeng UV-5R will let you communicate with anyone on 2m or 70cm analog using simplex and repeaters in your local area 90% as well as the big boys, for a tenth or less money. That is hard to pass up and might be the best Baofeng radio for you. I own two, go ahead and get your own Beofeng UV-5R. |