Baofeng UV-6R vs Baofeng UV-K5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-6R 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.

FeatureBaofeng UV-6RBaofeng UV-K5
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-6RBaofeng UV-K5
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm2/46/5
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh2500 mAh
Tested mAh mAh1780 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant251 mm328 mm
Width62 mm62 mm
Thickness w/clip50 mm53 mm
Weight232 g315 g
Color ScreenNoYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$29$24
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Rating by PriceCF
Rating OverallCF
Rating ErgonomicsBC
Conclusions

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.

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.