--By James Burnett
Today we’re diving into a really cool new handheld radio that Baofeng sent over, the UV-5G Mini. They actually sent me two of these little radios to test out, and I’ve got to say, I’m impressed.
Baofeng added a new feature to this model that’s not found on any of their other GMRS radios, and I think it’s going to be a game changer, especially for folks running comms networks, prepper groups, or net control stations.
Let’s dig into the specs, features, and real-world performance, including our distance test results.
Compact Size, Big Performance
The UV-5G Mini lives up to its name. Measuring in at 4.25 x 2 x 1.46 inches and weighing only 0.4 lbs, it’s one of the smallest GMRS radios Baofeng has made, yet it outperformed both the UV-5G Pro and the Radioddity GM-30 series in clarity and range.
It still delivers 5 watts of transmit power (and 0.5W on low channels 8–14), with a 1,600mAh battery. That’s not massive, but plenty for everyday use, and Baofeng will likely release extended battery options soon.
Antenna Test Results
We ran our standard distance test using both the included stubby antenna and our 15-inch whips, and surprisingly, the stubby performed just as well. That’s something we haven’t seen on previous Baofeng handhelds, which usually need the longer whips to get solid range.
Frequency Coverage
Compared to the UV-5G Plus, the Mini adds a new receive range of 350–390 MHz, giving you:
76–108 MHz (FM radio)
136–174 MHz (VHF)
350–390 MHz
400–520 MHz (GMRS frequencies in this range)
That means you can monitor local fire, EMS, sheriff, and police channels, as long as they’re still analog.
Feature Rundown
This little radio packs in nearly every feature you could want in a compact GMRS handheld:
Dual Display & Dual Watch: Monitor two channels or frequencies at once, for example, your team’s GMRS channel and a local repeater.
999 Programmable Channels: Customize frequencies, rename channels, and make all changes directly from the radio, no computer required.
CTCSS/DCS Privacy Codes: Filter out unwanted chatter or background transmissions.
Custom Repeater Offset: Works with non-standard GMRS repeaters.
Customizable Side Buttons: Program them for scanning, voice activation, SOS light, or other quick functions.
Built-in FM Radio: Listen to music or local stations, automatically mutes when someone transmits.
USB-C Charging: You can charge it upright without removing the battery, a simple but appreciated touch.
NOAA Weather Channels & Alerts: Built-in weather scan and emergency notifications.
Bluetooth Configuration: Program the radio from your phone (though I prefer field configuration).
The menu system is a major improvement over older Baofengs, intuitive, responsive, and easy to navigate with the bright 1.4” TFT display.
The Game-Changer: Dual PTT Transmit
Here’s where the UV-5G Mini really stands out,
It has two separate transmit buttons, one for each display.
On most dual-display radios, you can only listen to both channels but transmit on whichever one is selected. With this radio, you can instantly transmit on either channel without switching back and forth.
For anyone managing multiple networks, like a preparedness group or event security, this is huge.
For example, I often work with church security teams and bring my own crew to help out. The church runs their own FRS channel, while my team operates on a different GMRS channel. Normally, that means carrying two radios. With the UV-5G Mini, I could talk to the church on one button and my team on another, no juggling radios.
It’s a small change that makes a massive difference in practical use.
Real-World Distance Test
For our test, my wife headed out to our farthest checkpoint (about 2.5 miles away, with hills and power lines in between). Despite the terrain, we maintained clear, understandable (sort of?) communication, on par with the UV-5G Plus, and far better than the UV-5G Pro or Radioddity GM-30.
Even when switching to the stock stubby antenna, range performance stayed the same. That’s impressive, especially considering the obstacles in our test area.
Final Thoughts
The Baofeng UV-5G Mini is a solid, affordable, and well-built GMRS handheld that punches way above its size.
✅ Dual PTT transmit
✅ Great range even with a short antenna
✅ Lightweight and rugged
✅ All the standard GMRS and NOAA features
✅ USB-C charging and Bluetooth configuration
At around $50 for a set of two, it’s honestly one of the best budget radios out there right now. Whether you’re new to GMRS or building a reliable comms setup, this radio deserves a spot in your kit.
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