Baofeng UV-5RE Specifications and Complete Practical Guide

The Baofeng UV-5RE is a refined and stylish evolution of the UV-5R series. Designed to combine rugged dependability with upgraded aesthetics, the UV-5RE retains the same dual-band versatility, clear audio, and wide programming support that made its predecessors so successful. Whether you’re a licensed amateur operator, event coordinator, or off-grid enthusiast, the UV-5RE delivers reliable communication in a compact package.

Below is a full breakdown of its specifications, features, and performance, along with practical insights and known issues reported by users in the field.

Table of Contents

⚙️ Core Specifications

Specification	UV-5RE Value	Practical Meaning
Frequency Range	136–174 MHz (VHF), 400–520 MHz (UHF)	Supports both VHF and UHF bands, enabling use with local ham repeaters, community networks, and emergency channels.
FM Broadcast Receiver	65–108 MHz	Lets you tune in to FM radio stations for entertainment or monitoring news and weather.
Transmit Power	4–5 W typical	Sufficient for most personal and community communication within a few miles.
Power Levels	High / Low (4 W / 1 W)	Switch between maximum output and battery-saving modes depending on range needs.
Operating Voltage	7.4 V DC (Li-ion)	Standard Baofeng voltage; compatible with all UV-series chargers.
Battery Capacity	1800 mAh standard / 2800 mAh optional	Offers 6–10 hours of active use or up to 36 hours of standby time.
Modulation Type	FM (F3E), wide/narrow selectable	Allows better clarity and compliance with regional channel spacing requirements.
Audio Output Power	≈ 1 W	Clear and loud audio for field or group environments.
Receiver Sensitivity	≈ 0.25 µV	Strong sensitivity ensures clean reception even at longer distances.
Selectivity / Spurious Rejection	60 dB typical	Reduces noise from nearby frequencies, improving clarity.

🔊 Communication Features

Feature	UV-5RE Value	What It Means in Practice
Dual Watch / Dual Standby	Supported	Lets you monitor two frequencies simultaneously — useful for coordinating between groups.
CTCSS / DCS Tone Squelch	50 CTCSS + 104 DCS	Ensures you only hear transmissions from your group, filtering out random signals.
VOX (Hands-Free)	Adjustable sensitivity	Enables voice-activated transmission; great for hands-free or mobile use.
Channel Memory	128 channels	Stores local repeaters, simplex channels, and emergency frequencies.
Scan Function	Yes (5–10 channels/s)	Automatically searches for active signals.
Voice Prompt	English / Chinese	Helps guide setup without reading the manual.
TX Timeout Timer (TOT)	15–180 s adjustable	Prevents overheating or long accidental transmissions.
Keypad Backlight	Blue / Orange dual-color	Easy to read in low-light conditions.
Programming Software	CHIRP compatible	Simple computer-based setup for channels and tones.

🔋 Power, Battery & Charging

Parameter	Value	Practical Note
Battery Type	7.4 V Li-ion	Long-life rechargeable battery pack.
Standard Battery	BL-5 (1800 mAh)	Comes included and supports daily use.
Extended Battery	BL-5L (2800 mAh)	Increases operating time by about 50%.
Charging Time	≈ 4 hours	Uses included desktop charger with LED status.
Charger Input	10 V DC / 500 mA	Works with wall or vehicle adapters.
Battery Eliminator	Optional 12 V car cable	Powers the radio directly from a vehicle outlet.

🧱 Physical & Build Characteristics

Attribute	Value	Practical Meaning
Dimensions (H × W × D)	110 × 58 × 32 mm	Compact and ergonomic — easy to carry or clip onto gear.
Weight	≈ 250 g	Light but solid, suitable for long operational use.
Antenna Connector	SMA-Female	Compatible with a wide variety of aftermarket antennas.
Material / Build	ABS polycarbonate	Rigid, shock-resistant, and durable for outdoor conditions.
Water Resistance	IP-54 approx.	Can withstand light rain and dust exposure.
Display Type	Dual-line LCD	Displays both active channels or names simultaneously.
Design Finish	Silver faceplate with reinforced edges	Adds a modern look and slightly improved grip.

📡 Range & Performance in the Field

Condition	Expected Range	Notes
Urban Areas	0.5–2 miles	Shorter range due to building interference.
Suburban / Rural	2–5 miles	Performs well in open areas or moderate terrain.
High-Gain Antenna Upgrade	5–10 miles	Recommended upgrade for outdoor use; improves signal reach.
Repeater Communication	Up to 20 miles	Strong signal through local repeater systems.

🧩 Accessories & Expandability

Accessory	Compatibility	Why It Matters
Speaker Mic	Kenwood 2-pin	Improves clarity for group or event communications.
Programming Cable	USB-to-TTL (Kenwood 2-pin)	Enables CHIRP software programming.
Extended Battery / Eliminator	BL-5L / DC cable	Extends use or powers the radio indefinitely from vehicles.
Headset / Earpiece	Yes (2-pin PTT)	Great for security and event coordination.
High-Gain Antenna	SMA-Male compatible	Boosts range significantly.
Car Charger / Dock	Included desktop dock	Simple drop-in recharging solution.

🌐 Regulatory & Certification Details

Parameter	Value	Meaning for Users
FCC ID	ZP5BF-5RE	Approved for U.S. use under Part 97 (amateur radio).
CE Mark	Yes	Certified for EU compliance and EMC safety.
License Requirement	Amateur license (U.S. Part 97)	Required to transmit legally.
Frequency Restrictions	Not certified for FRS/GMRS	May only receive on those bands unless specifically licensed.
Firmware Compatibility	UV-5R / UV-5RA shared firmware	Ensures full accessory and programming compatibility.

🛰️ Model Variants & Compatibility

Model Variant	Key Difference	Shared Features
UV-5RE Plus	Enhanced metal faceplate and improved speaker housing	Same specs and firmware as UV-5RE.
UV-5R Classic	Original body design	Identical internals and channel programming.
UV-5RA / UV-5RM	Design and color variants	Functionally identical, fully compatible accessories.

⚠️ Known Issues

Issue	Description	Impact / Fix
Audio Distortion at High Volume	Users report crackling at maximum speaker level.	Keep volume below 80% for clearer sound.
Firmware Inconsistency	Some UV-5RE batches ship with slightly different menu numbering.	Use CHIRP software to identify firmware version and align menus.
Battery Dock Misalignment	Charging contacts may not always seat perfectly.	Ensure radio clicks into place or slightly adjust dock spring.
Keypad Wear Over Time	Heavy users notice faded keypad markings.	Use a keypad overlay or label kit for long-term use.
FM Mode Lockout Bug	Occasional glitch when switching between FM and memory channels.	Power-cycle or reset fixes it immediately.
Antenna Quality Variation	Stock antenna range inconsistent between batches.	Replace with a Nagoya NA-771 for better performance.

🧭 Practical Takeaways

The UV-5RE delivers all the power and reliability of the UV-5R but with a sleeker metallic design and slightly improved audio output.
Ideal for beginners and ham operators alike, with CHIRP compatibility and simple dual-band operation.
For best performance, consider upgrading the antenna and using an extended battery pack.
Known issues are minor and easily addressed – none affect core communication reliability.

🏁 Conclusion

The Baofeng UV-5RE continues the tradition of the UV-5R family: powerful, compact, and affordable. It offers the same dual-band flexibility with a more refined exterior and excellent accessory compatibility.

If you need a dependable, budget-friendly radio for field use, events, or hobby communication, the UV-5RE stands as one of Baofeng’s most balanced models – durable, adaptable, and ready for any task.