Baofeng UV-3R vs Baofeng UV-5R - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-3R 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.

FeatureBaofeng UV-3RBaofeng UV-5R
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-3RBaofeng UV-5R
Bands2m, 70cm2m/70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm1/.43/1.4
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts3.7 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1500 mAh1800 mAh
Tested mAh mAh1210 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant174 mm265 mm
Width55 mm58 mm
Thickness w/clip40 mm44 mm
Weight147 g209 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINKLINK
Price$45$18
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Rating by PriceFA
Rating OverallDC
Conclusions

The Baofeng UV-3R Plus is a good little radio and while there is nothing particularly wrong with it, it is seriously outclassed by the UV-5R for the same amount of money.

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.