Baofeng has earned a reputation for making reliable, affordable, and highly capable handheld radios that appeal to both amateur operators and professionals. The UV-5R became a global favorite for its unbeatable value, while the UV-5R Plus aims to refine that experience with a tougher chassis and more polished design. But is the Plus version worth the upgrade? Let’s find out.
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🔍 Overview
The Baofeng UV-5R is one of the best-selling handheld radios in the world. It covers the 136-174 MHz (VHF) and 400-520 MHz (UHF) bands, making it a dual-band transceiver perfect for ham radio enthusiasts, preppers, and general communication.
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The UV-5R Plus keeps all of the UV-5R’s functionality but upgrades the exterior. It features a metallic body shell, providing better heat dissipation and durability. Internally, the firmware and radio performance remain nearly identical, though some users report slightly improved stability on transmit power and battery longevity.
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📊 Specification Comparison
| Feature | Baofeng UV-5R | Baofeng UV-5R Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency Range | 136-174 MHz / 400-520 MHz | 136-174 MHz / 400-520 MHz |
| Output Power | 1 W / 5 W | 1 W / 5 W |
| Channels | 128 | 128 |
| Battery | 1800 mAh Li-Ion | 1800 mAh Li-Ion |
| Body Material | Plastic | Metal-reinforced |
| Audio Output | 700 mW | 1000 mW |
| Antenna Connector | SMA-Female | SMA-Female |
| Display | Dual-band LCD | Dual-band LCD |
| Dual Watch | Yes | Yes |
| FM Radio | 65-108 MHz | 65-108 MHz |
| VOX Function | Yes | Yes |
| Flashlight | Yes | Yes |
| Programming | CHIRP compatible | CHIRP compatible |
| Weight | 210 g | 225 g |
| 💳 Pricing | 💲 Check UV-5R Price | 💲 Check UV-5R Plus Price |
⚙️ Performance and Functionality
Both the UV-5R and UV-5R Plus deliver identical radio performance. They offer clear audio, stable transmission, and solid range – typically 1 to 3 miles handheld-to-handheld in open environments, and more when using repeaters.
Where the UV-5R Plus stands out is in build quality. Its metallic chassis offers better resistance to drops and heat, making it ideal for field or industrial use.
Community discussions on Reddit’s r/baofeng and ham radio forums consistently note that the Plus version “feels premium” compared to the UV-5R, though its radio performance remains the same. In short, it’s an aesthetic and durability upgrade rather than a technical leap.
🧰 Build and Design
The UV-5R sports the classic Baofeng look with a plastic case, dual-display LCD, and large keypad buttons. It’s lightweight and well-balanced, perfect for everyday use.
The UV-5R Plus swaps plastic for a zinc alloy body shell that gives it a more professional, rugged appearance. The extra weight adds a touch of solidity without making it bulky. Both models use the same batteries, chargers, and accessories, so they’re fully interchangeable.
💡 Ease of Use and Programming
Both models share the same interface and CHIRP compatibility. You can easily program frequencies, tones, and channels via the keypad or USB cable. The menu system is simple but dated – once you’ve learned a few key settings, operation becomes second nature.
Users on ham radio forums note that Baofeng’s learning curve is steep at first but manageable with community support. You’ll find hundreds of CHIRP templates and tutorials online to help with setup.
🧩 Ideal Use Cases
| User Type | Recommended Model | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Beginners | UV-5R | Best entry-level radio at lowest price |
| Outdoor Enthusiasts | UV-5R Plus | Tougher build, better durability |
| Emergency Kits | UV-5R | Affordable and easy to replace |
| Security Teams | UV-5R Plus | Professional look and stronger housing |
| Ham Operators | UV-5R | Well-documented, easy to modify |
🏁 Verdict
Both the Baofeng UV-5R and UV-5R Plus are outstanding value options for dual-band communication. They perform almost identically, share the same accessories, and can be programmed using identical methods.
Choose the UV-5R if you want the best bang for your buck and a proven performer with massive community support.
Choose the UV-5R Plus if you prefer a sturdier, more premium-looking radio that can handle rougher environments.
In essence, the UV-5R is the classic, while the UV-5R Plus is the refined version built to last.
👉 Buy the Baofeng UV-5R on Amazon
👉 Buy the Baofeng UV-5R Plus on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Baofeng UV-5R and UV-5R Plus?
The UV-5R and UV-5R Plus share the same internal electronics, RF board, and performance specs. The main difference is the exterior housing. The UV-5R Plus uses a reinforced shell with a more premium metallic finish, while the original UV-5R has a simpler plastic casing.
Is the UV-5R Plus more durable than the UV-5R?
Yes. The UV-5R Plus has a more rugged exterior that resists scratches and minor drops better than the standard UV-5R. However, internally both radios use the same components, so the durability improvement is mainly cosmetic and structural, not electronic.
Do the UV-5R and UV-5R Plus have the same range?
Yes. Both radios share the same transmitter power levels and antenna connector, so real-world range is virtually identical. Any difference you notice will come from the antenna, environment, or tuning rather than the radio body itself.
Does the UV-5R Plus transmit stronger than the UV-5R?
No. Both are rated for the same output power, typically around 4–5 watts on high. Because they share the same RF hardware, transmit power is the same between models.
Are the UV-5R and UV-5R Plus internally the same radio?
Yes. Inside, the radios use identical circuitry, menus, firmware structure, and RF components. The UV-5R Plus is essentially a UV-5R with an upgraded shell.
Do both models use the same batteries and accessories?
Yes. All UV-5R batteries, chargers, antennas, hand mics, programming cables, and extended battery packs work with both models. This makes either radio easy to integrate into an existing setup.
Is the UV-5R Plus compatible with UV-5R programming files?
Yes. Channel programming files created for the UV-5R work perfectly on the UV-5R Plus. Both models use the same CHIRP profiles and configuration structure.
Can both radios be programmed with CHIRP?
Absolutely. CHIRP fully supports both models. The UV-5R profile works for both versions, so programming repeaters, tones, and custom channel lists is straightforward.
Does the UV-5R Plus have better audio quality?
Audio quality is nearly identical because the radios use the same speaker and audio circuitry. Some users feel the UV-5R Plus sounds slightly fuller due to the sturdier housing, but the difference is minimal.
Are antennas interchangeable between the two radios?
Yes. Both use the SMA-Female connector, meaning any aftermarket antenna suitable for the UV-5R will work exactly the same on the UV-5R Plus.
Is the UV-5R Plus worth upgrading to if I already own a UV-5R?
If your existing UV-5R works well, upgrading is not necessary. The UV-5R Plus performs the same. The biggest reason to choose the Plus model is the improved exterior durability and more polished look.
Which model is easier for beginners to use?
Both models use the same menus, keypad layout, and firmware, so they are equally easy to learn. Tutorials, guides, and CHIRP programming instructions apply to both versions.
Is the UV-5R Plus just a cosmetic upgrade?
Yes, for the most part. The improvements relate to the case design and overall feel. The electronics and RF performance are identical to the UV-5R.
Which radio has better display visibility?
The displays are essentially the same, with equal brightness and contrast. Any difference you might notice comes from the angle of the screen cutout in the housing, but this is extremely minor.
Does the UV-5R Plus offer better battery life?
Battery life is identical because both radios use the same battery packs and power circuitry. Expect 10–12 hours of mixed use with the standard battery.
Do both radios perform equally well on repeaters?
Yes. Both models handle repeater offsets, tones, and programming in the same way. Their sensitivity and transmit clarity are also the same.
Are both radios legal for amateur radio use?
Yes. Both models are Part 97 compliant and widely used by amateur operators worldwide. You will need at least a Technician-class ham license to transmit legally in the U.S.
Which model is better for emergency or prepper use?
Either radio works well, but the UV-5R Plus may be preferred because of its tougher exterior shell, which holds up better to rough handling. Functionally, however, they are equal.
Can the UV-5R and UV-5R Plus talk to each other?
Yes. As long as both radios are on the same frequency, bandwidth, and tones, they communicate perfectly. They share the same channel structure and compatibility.
Which radio should I buy: UV-5R or UV-5R Plus?
Choose the UV-5R if you want the most affordable option with proven performance.
Choose the UV-5R Plus if you want the same functionality but with a stronger, more premium-feeling housing that offers slightly better durability.
