UV-5R III Black

Baofeng UV-5R III Tri-Band Ham Radio UK — VHF / UHF / 1.25m

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Explore the Baofeng UV-5R III, the tri-band model in the Baofeng UV-5R family. Compare single-radio bundles, multi-packs and accessory combinations to find the right option for your amateur radio setup. Looking for the classic dual-band version? Browse our Baofeng UV-5R radios. For computer programming, explore our programming cables and confirm compatibility with your exact radio version. Review each listing for the pack quantity, battery specification and included accessories. The UV-5R III covers the specialised 220–260 MHz band alongside standard VHF and UHF frequencies, making it a popular choice for UK amateur radio operators accessing local repeater networks, SOTA activations and Duke of Edinburgh radio communications.

True Tri-Band Operation

Transmit and receive on 136–174 MHz, 400–520 MHz, and the specialised 220–260 MHz band to avoid crowded radio traffic.

Dual Watch & Reception

Monitor two different frequencies simultaneously. Never miss an important call from your team or emergency broadcasts.

CHIRP Compatible

Easily program all 128 memory channels via PC with CHIRP software, or manually input frequencies directly from the keypad.

Essential Field Features

Equipped with a built-in FM broadcast radio receiver, an emergency LED flashlight, and a solid 1800 mAh Li-ion battery.

UV-5R III Model

Looking for the tri-band version? Check that the product title specifies UV-5R III before comparing it with the classic dual-band UV-5R.

Single Radios & Multi-Packs

Compare single-radio options with multi-radio packs. Check the selected option and total number of radios included before adding to your basket.

Accessory Bundle Options

Browse bundles with accessories such as speaker microphones, programming cables or additional antennas. Contents vary by listing and selected option.

Check Your Setup

Review the battery, charging equipment and supplied accessories on the product page to choose a package that suits your existing setup.

UK Licensing Notice: Transmitting on amateur radio frequencies in the UK requires a valid Ofcom licence. Please ensure your operations are fully compliant by reading our UK Ham Radio Licence Guide before using the PTT button.

Baofeng UV-5R III vs UV-5R Classic

Wondering what sets the UV-5R III apart from the standard model? Check the detailed comparison below to see why the tri-band upgrade delivers unmatched communication flexibility.

Specification Baofeng UV-5R III Baofeng UV-5R
Product Image Baofeng UV-5R III Tri-Band Ham Radio UK Baofeng UV-5R Classic Dual Band Radio UK
Power Output 5W 5W
Battery Capacity 1800 mAh 1800 mAh
Radio Frequencies Tri-Band:
  • 136–174 MHz
  • 220–260 MHz
  • 400–520 MHz
 Dual Band:
  • 144–146 MHz
  • 430–440 MHz
Display LCD Screen LCD Screen
Antenna SMA-Female Flexible Antenna Standard SMA-Female Antenna
Key Features & Functions
  • 128 Channels
  • Built-in VOX Function
  • Tri-Band Operation
  • Emergency Alert
  • Low Battery Alert
  • Battery Save Function
  • Time Out Timer
  • 128 Channels
  • Built-in VOX Function
  • VHF / UHF Dual-Band
  • Emergency Alert
  • Low Battery Alert
Ideal Usage Amateur radio, outdoor activities, SOTA activations, general communications. Beginner amateur radio, general communications.

Downloads, Firmware & Programming

Customise your 128 memory channels, set up private lines (CTCSS/DCS), and unlock the full potential of your tri-band radio. Need help getting started? Read our step-by-step UV-5R Series Programming Guide.

FAQs About Baofeng UV-5R III Radios

Q1: Is the Baofeng UV-5R III the same as the standard UV-5R? +

No. The Baofeng UV-5R III is marketed as a tri-band model, while the classic UV-5R is a dual-band radio. Check the exact model and product specifications before ordering, as similar UV-5R names do not mean the radios have identical features. Browse the full UV-5R series to compare all available models.

Q2: Which Baofeng UV-5R III bundle should I choose? +

Choose according to the number of radios and accessories you need. Compare single-radio options with multi-packs, then check whether the selected bundle includes items such as a speaker microphone, programming cable or additional antenna.

Q3: Can I use the Baofeng UV-5R III without a licence in the UK? +

The UV-5R III is not a licence-free PMR446 radio. To transmit on amateur radio frequencies in the UK, you need a valid Ofcom amateur radio licence. UK amateur licences are issued at three levels — Foundation, Intermediate and Full — each permitting different power levels and frequency access. Reception only does not require a licence. Visit Ofcom to check licence requirements and apply before operating.

Q4: Does tri-band coverage mean I can transmit on every supported frequency? +

No. A radio’s advertised frequency coverage does not give you permission to transmit throughout that range. Check the frequencies and operating conditions authorised by your licence before programming or transmitting.

Q5: How do I programme the Baofeng UV-5R III? +

The UV-5R III supports both keypad programming and computer programming via USB. For computer programming, the radio is compatible with CHIRP — select the correct model in CHIRP before writing any settings to the radio. Confirm your programming cable is compatible with your exact radio version before connecting. Our Baofeng CHIRP Programming Guide covers the full process step by step.

Baofeng UV-5R III — UK Amateur Radio Use

The Baofeng UV-5R III is one of the most popular tri-band handheld radios among UK amateur radio operators. Its 220–260 MHz capability sets it apart from standard dual-band handhelds, giving licensed operators access to a less congested frequency band alongside traditional VHF and UHF channels. This makes the UV-5R III well suited to situations where standard amateur bands are busy — including club events, RAYNET callouts and emergency communications exercises.

The UV-5R III is widely used across a range of UK outdoor activities. From SOTA (Summits on the Air) activations in the Scottish Highlands and Snowdonia to Duke of Edinburgh expeditions requiring reliable group communications, the radio’s compact form factor and 5W output make it a practical field choice. For those new to amateur radio in the UK, the Foundation licence provides the starting point to operate legally on permitted frequencies. For general outdoor two-way radio use, review which frequencies and power levels your licence permits before heading out.

Explore the Full Baofeng Amateur Radio Range

Browse all Baofeng ham radios available in the UK — from entry-level dual-band models to advanced tri-band and multi-band handhelds. Find the right radio for your licence level and operating style.

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