Baofeng UV-5RA vs Baofeng UV-6R - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-5RA and Baofeng UV-6R? 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-6R |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Baofeng UV-5RA | Baofeng UV-6R |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 5/2 | 2/4 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 1800 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1210 mAh | mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 245 mm | 251 mm |
| Width | 59 mm | 62 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 45 mm | 50 mm |
| Weight | 215 g | 232 g |
| Color Screen | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | LINK |
| Price | $25 | $29 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Rating by Price | C | C |
| Rating Overall | C | C |
| Rating Ergonomics | - | B |
| 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 am not a huge fan of the Baofeng UV-6R, but also don’t deny that it is actually a good radio. If you are not a heavy user of a handheld radio, want something slicker than a box with a stick on it, and value good audio, then this might be an excellent radio for you. Its actual performance is pretty good and the price is absolutely right. Overall, this is a good, inexpensive radio. |