Baofeng UV-K5 vs Baofeng UV-25 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-K5 and Baofeng UV-25? 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-K5Baofeng UV-25
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-K5Baofeng UV-25
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm6/59/7
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2500 mAh2800 mAh
Tested mAh1780 mAh4860 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant328 mm510 mm
Width62 mm71 mm
Thickness w/clip53 mm56 mm
Weight315 g675 g
Color ScreenYesYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$24$43
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Rating by PriceFA
Rating OverallFC
Rating ErgonomicsC-
Conclusions

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.

So would I recommend the radio? Sure! The power output is amazing, the screen is beautiful, the buttons are excellent, and I love that stupid gaudy knob at the top. For the price, you are getting a very capable basic radio with a battery that should keep you going for days, lol.

The downside is that it weighs a ton and has a garbage antenna.

You could get a better deal on something like the Baofeng 5RH Pro, which also has GPS and costs less. I still think I would take this one if just for the fun factor.