Baofeng UV-K5 vs Baofeng UV-5R5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-K5 and Baofeng UV-5R5? 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-5R5
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-K5Baofeng UV-5R5
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm6/53.1/2
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2500 mAh1800 mAh
Tested mAh1780 mAh1210 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant328 mm260 mm
Width62 mm58 mm
Thickness w/clip53 mm43 mm
Weight315 g209 g
Color ScreenYesNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingYesNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book Link-LINK
Price$24$25
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesY
Rating by PriceFD
Rating OverallFD
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.

The Baofeng UV-5R5 is a good radio, but I think you would be better served by buying a different model of the UV-5R. Personally, I think the BF-F8+ is the best variant of this radio currently available.

On the other hand, if you bought the Baofeng UV-5R5 or just really like that lime green button colors (it is cool on the lower keypad), there is nothing wrong here. Use it and enjoy it!