Baofeng UV-5RA vs Baofeng UV-13R - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-5RA and Baofeng UV-13R? 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-5RA | Baofeng UV-13R |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Baofeng UV-5RA | Baofeng UV-13R |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 5/2 | 3/2 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 1800 mAh | 1500 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1210 mAh | mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 245 mm | 265 mm |
| Width | 59 mm | 57 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 45 mm | 43 mm |
| Weight | 215 g | 249 g |
| Color Screen | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | LINK |
| Price | $25 | $50 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Rating by Price | C | D |
| Rating Overall | C | D |
| Conclusions | The Baofeng UV-5RA is literally a UV-5R in slightly new clothes, nothing more. If you prefer the looks (I don’t like the shiny face), then buy this one. If you want something less shiny, get the UV-5R. Either way, excellent radio for the price. | I absolutely am not a fan of the Baofeng UV-13R series radios, which should be obvious by now. It is built fairly well and does its job fairly well, but beyond that, not much positive can be said. If you need a radio that can be charged directly via USB-C, then the Baofeng UV-13R might be a workable solution. I can not think of another reason to buy one of these, and even that is a stretch. |