Baofeng is a well-known brand among amateur radio enthusiasts and professionals for providing affordable and feature-rich two-way radios.
Two of their popular models are the Baofeng UV-5R and the Baofeng AR-5RM, both offering excellent communication tools at a budget-friendly price. While these radios share some similarities, they also have key differences that make them suited for different users and environments.
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In this article, we’ll compare the two radios to help you decide which model best fits your needs.
Comparison Table
| Feature | AR-5RM | UV-5R |
|---|---|---|
| 💳 Pricing | Check Price | Check Price |
| Output Power | 10 Watt | 5 Watt |
| Frequency (TX) | VHF/UHF/12.5 m | VHF/UHF |
| Frequency (RX) | FM: 68-108 MHz | 136-174 MHz |
| AM: 108-136 MHz | 400-520 MHz | |
| 136-174 MHz | ||
| 220-260 MHz | ||
| 350-390 MHz | ||
| 400-520 MHz | ||
| Copy Frequency | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Type-C Charger | ✔️ | ❌ |
| DTMF | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Stopwatch Timer | ✔️ | ❌ |
| Screen Size | 1.77″ Large Screen | Smaller screen |
| Power Output | H/M/L Power | H/M/L Power |
| Antenna | Improved version of a High Gain Antenna | Standard Antenna |
| Dimensions | 13″ height, 5.3″ width, 2.5″ depth | 9.6″ height, 4.3″ width, 2.3″ depth |
Key Differences Between the Baofeng UV-5R and AR-5RM
Frequency Range
The Baofeng UV-5R supports transmission on VHF (136-174 MHz) and UHF (400-520 MHz), which makes it a versatile option for many users, particularly amateur radio operators and those in need of basic two-way communication.
In comparison, the Baofeng AR-5RM offers a broader frequency range, including:
- VHF (136-174 MHz)
- UHF (400-520 MHz)
- FM: 68-108 MHz
- AM: 108-136 MHz
- 220-260 MHz
- 350-390 MHz
This extended frequency range allows the AR-5RM to operate on more bands, making it suitable for more advanced users who need access to a wider array of frequencies.
Display Size
One of the standout features of the Baofeng AR-5RM is its larger 1.77-inch screen, which provides better readability compared to the smaller display on the UV-5R. The larger screen is especially useful for users who need to monitor multiple channels or see more information on the screen at a glance.
Additional Features
The AR-5RM comes with several additional features that are not available on the UV-5R:
- Copy Frequency: The AR-5RM allows users to easily copy frequencies from other radios, which is a handy feature when setting up communication with other users in the field.
- Type-C Charger: While the UV-5R uses a standard charger, the AR-5RM features a Type-C charger, offering faster charging times and compatibility with modern charging systems.
- DTMF: The AR-5RM supports Dual Tone Multi-Frequency (DTMF), which enables users to send dual-tone signals for advanced communication protocols like remote access to repeaters.
- Stopwatch Timer: The AR-5RM includes a stopwatch timer, adding to its utility for time-sensitive activities or events.
Antenna Upgrade
The AR-5RM ships with a high gain antenna (like the one shown below) while the UV-5R includes a standard antenna.
Power Output
Both the UV-5R and AR-5RM offer the same high/mid/low power output, which allows users to adjust the power level depending on their communication needs. This feature helps to conserve battery life when operating in close-range environments or boost signal strength for long-distance communication.
The max output from the AR-5RM is 10 Watt while it’s only 5 Watt in the case of the UV-5R. This enables transmissions from the AR-5RM to go further thereby increasing its range over that of the UV-5R.
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Which Baofeng Radio Should You Choose?
The choice between the Baofeng UV-5R and the Baofeng AR-5RM depends on your specific needs:
- Choose the Baofeng UV-5R if you are a beginner or need a simple, budget-friendly radio for casual use. It’s affordable, easy to use, and provides reliable performance for most amateur radio operations.
- Choose the Baofeng AR-5RM if you need a rugged, feature-rich radio with extended frequency capabilities and enhanced range. It’s the better choice for outdoor adventurers, professionals, and more advanced users who require additional features like Copy Frequency, DTMF, and faster charging.
In summary, both radios are excellent choices within their price range, but the AR-5RM offers more advanced features and ruggedness, making it a solid option for those willing to invest a bit more for better performance and durability.
