The Baofeng UV-5R has been the king of budget radios for over a decade, but it was showing its age. No USB-C charging and the struggle of manual programming were sticking points. The Baofeng UV-5R Mini changes everything by bringing modern tech to a classic design.
Overview
The UV-5R Mini is significantly more compact than the original. It keeps the core dual-band functionality but adds two massive features: USB-C charging directly into the radio and wireless app programming via Bluetooth. No more hunting for specialized cables or using a clunky charging cradle.
Specifications
| Frequency Range | 136-174 MHz (VHF) / 400-520 MHz (UHF) |
|---|---|
| Channels | 999 Programmable |
| Charging Port | USB Type-C |
| Programming | Bluetooth App + K-Port |
| Weather | NOAA Weather Alert Channels |
✅ Pros
- USB-C Charging - Charge from any power bank
- App Programming - Full setup from your smartphone
- 999 Channels - Massive memory for its size
- Dual PTT - Quick switching between A/B bands
❌ Cons
- Smaller Screen - Can be harder for some to read
- Cramped Keypad - Not ideal for large hands
- Lower Battery Capacity - Trade-off for the small size
The Verdict
The Verdict
The UV-5R Mini is the perfect radio for hiking, EDC, and emergency kits where space is a premium. The wireless programming makes it the most beginner-friendly Baofeng on the market.