Baofeng UV-5R III Tri-Band Walkie Talkie | Accessory Bundle
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★ Baofeng UV-5R III Tri-Band Highlights:
- Tri-Band Operation: 136–174MHz (VHF) + 220–260MHz (1.25M) + 400–520MHz (UHF) — three bands in one radio.
- 128 Programmable Channels: 50 CTCSS & 104 DCS codes for private, interference-free communication.
- 5W Output Power: High/Low switchable for range vs. battery balance.
- FM Radio Reception: 65–108MHz FM broadcast reception — monitor emergency broadcasts while on standby.
- Dual Watch & Standby: Monitor two frequencies simultaneously across different bands.
- VOX Hands-Free: Voice-activated transmission — no button press needed.
- Built-in LED Flashlight: Handy torch for low-light field use.
- CHIRP Compatible: Full PC programming support via CHIRP and Baofeng CPS software.
- Choose Your Bundle: Select radio only or add accessories from the options above.
Baofeng UV-5R III — The UK's Favourite Tri-Band Amateur Radio
The Baofeng UV-5R III is the tri-band evolution of the world's best-selling UV-5R. Where the standard UV-5R covers two bands, the UV-5R III adds a third — the 220–260MHz (1.25 metre) band — making it one of the most versatile handheld amateur radios available in the UK today. Whether you're a Foundation licensee exploring your first repeaters, an experienced operator wanting tri-band flexibility, or a team needing a dependable dual-watch radio for UK operations, the UV-5R III delivers.
Built on Baofeng's proven UV-5R platform, the UV-5R III inherits all the features UK amateur radio users trust — 128 programmable channels, CTCSS/DCS tone encoding, FM broadcast reception, VOX, and full CHIRP software support — while adding the exclusive 1.25M band that sets it apart from every other radio in its class.
Select your preferred accessory bundle from the options above — radio only, with programming cable, with speaker mic, or with tactical antenna upgrade — to get exactly the configuration your operation requires.
Choose Your Bundle — Select from Options Above
- ▶ UV-5R III Only — The radio with all standard accessories. Ideal if you already own a programming cable and accessories.
- ▶ + Programming Cable — Adds the official Baofeng USB cable for fast PC programming via CHIRP or CPS software.
- ▶ + Speaker Mic — Adds an original Baofeng K-Type handheld shoulder mic for hands-free communication.
- ▶ + Speaker Mic + Programming Cable — The complete professional kit — radio, mic, and cable in one bundle.
- ▶ + 18.8 inch Foldable CS Tactical Antenna — Adds a compact foldable tactical antenna for improved signal and range in the field.
- ▶ + NA-771 Antenna — Adds the popular NA-771 high-gain dual-band antenna (38.5cm, SMA-Female) for extended range over the stock antenna.


What Makes the UV-5R III Different — The 1.25M Band Explained
Most Baofeng radios cover two bands — VHF (2m) and UHF (70cm). The UV-5R III adds the 220–260MHz (1.25 metre) band, making it a genuine tri-band radio. This third band is less congested than VHF and UHF in many UK areas, providing a useful additional frequency range for amateur operators who want more options. The UV-5R III can receive and transmit on all three bands.
UV-5R III Tri-Band Frequency Coverage
Band 1 — VHF (2m)
136–174MHz
TX & RX
Ideal for open terrain & rural UK use
Band 2 — 1.25M
220–260MHz
TX & RX
Less congested — exclusive to UV-5R III
Band 3 — UHF (70cm)
400–520MHz
TX & RX
Best for urban UK & indoor use
Also receives: FM Broadcast 65–108MHz — monitor local radio stations in the background while keeping your channels active.
Key Features of the Baofeng UV-5R III
- Earpiece / Mic Type: Kenwood K-Type 2-Pin Plug
- Antenna: SMA-Female, High Gain Tri-Band
- Frequency Range: 136–174MHz (VHF) / 220–260MHz (1.25M) / 400–520MHz (UHF)
- FM Receive Only: 65–108MHz
- Dual-Band Display, Dual Frequency Display, Dual Standby
- Output Power: 5W (High) / 1W (Low)
- 128 Channels, 50 CTCSS & 104 DCS codes
- Built-in VOX (Voice-Activated Transmission)
- 1750Hz Burst Tone for repeater access
- Built-in LED Flashlight
- Large LCD Display
- High/Low RF Power Switchable
- 25KHz / 12.5KHz Bandwidth Switchable
- Emergency Alert Function
- Low Battery Alert
- Battery Saver Mode
- Time-Out Timer (TOT)
- Keypad Lock
- Monitor / Scan Function
- Busy Channel Lock-Out (BCLO)
- Channel Step: 2.5 / 5 / 6.25 / 10 / 12.5 / 25KHz
- Roger Beep
- DTMF Tone Sending (ANI / Remote Commands)
- CTCSS / DCS / DTMF Group Tone Support


Baofeng UV-5R III Technical Specifications
| General | |
| Model | UV-5R III |
| Frequency Range (TX/RX) | 136–174MHz (VHF) / 220–260MHz (1.25M) / 400–480MHz (UHF) |
| FM Receive Only | 65–108MHz |
| Channels | 128 |
| Frequency Stability | ±2.5ppm |
| Antenna | SMA-Female, High Gain Tri-Band |
| Antenna Impedance | 50Ω |
| Operating Voltage | DC 7.4V |
| Operation Mode | Simplex / Semi-Duplex |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 100 x 52 x 32mm |
| Weight | 250g (including battery & antenna) |
| Transmitter | |
| Output Power | 4W (High) / 1W (Low) — Max 5W |
| Modulation Mode | 16kφF3E (Wide) / 11kφF3E (Narrow) |
| Maximum Deviation | <5kHz (Wide) / <2.5kHz (Narrow) |
| Spurious Radiation | <7μW |
| Adjacent Ch. Power | ≤-65dB (Wide) / ≤-60dB (Narrow) |
| Pre-Emphasis | 6dB |
| Current | ≤1.6A (5W) |
| CTCSS/DCS Deviation | 0.5±0.1kHz (Wide) / 0.3±0.1kHz (Narrow) |
| Intermediation Sensitivity | 8–12mV |
| Intermediation Distortion | <10% |
| Receiver | |
| Sensitivity (12dB SINAD) | ≤0.20μV |
| Selectivity | 55dB / 50dB |
| Intermodulation | ≥65dB |
| Adjacent Channel Selectivity | ≥60dB |
| Spurious Response | ≥60dB |
| Audio Power Output | 1000mW |
| Battery | |
| Battery | 7.4V 1800mAh Li-ion (BL-5) |
| Charger | Desktop Drop-In Charger with USB Connector |
What's in the Box
- 1 x Baofeng UV-5R III Tri-Band Walkie Talkie (Black)
- 1 x 7.4V 1800mAh Original Baofeng Li-ion Battery Pack
- 2 x Antenna (stock dual-band + tri-band)
- 1 x Hand Strap
- 1 x Belt Clip
- 1 x English User Manual
- 1 x Desktop Charger with USB Connector
- 1 x PTT Earpiece
- + Any accessories selected from bundle options above
Programming the Baofeng UV-5R III
▶ Recommended: Programme via CHIRP or Baofeng CPS Software
PC programming is the fastest and most accurate method for the UV-5R III. Use the free CHIRP software or official Baofeng CPS software with an original Baofeng USB programming cable to set all 128 channels, CTCSS/DCS tones, and repeater offsets in minutes.
▶ Read our step-by-step guide: How to Program Your Baofeng Radio Using CHIRP
How to Manually Programme a Simplex Channel
- Press [VFO/MR] to enter Frequency Mode.
- Press [A/B] and choose the A Side (upper display). — Programming data entered on the B Side will not be saved.
- Press [BAND] to choose your frequency band — toggle between 136MHz (VHF) or 470MHz (UHF).
- Disable TDR (Dual Watch):
[MENU] 7 [MENU] → OFF [MENU] [EXIT] - Enter the frequency using the numeric keypad.
- Optional — Enter CTCSS:
[MENU] 13 [MENU] [code] [MENU] [EXIT]
or DCS:[MENU] 12 [MENU] [code] [MENU] [EXIT] - Assign to a channel:
[MENU] 27 [MENU] [channel number] [MENU] [EXIT]
How to Manually Programme a Repeater Channel
- Press [VFO/MR] to enter Frequency Mode.
- Press [A/B] and choose the A Side (upper display).
- Press [BAND] to choose your frequency band.
- Optional — Clear existing CTCSS/DCS codes:
RX DCS:[MENU] 10 [MENU] 0 [MENU] [EXIT]
RX CTCSS:[MENU] 11 [MENU] 0 [MENU] [EXIT]
TX DCS:[MENU] 12 [MENU] 0 [MENU] [EXIT]
TX CTCSS:[MENU] 13 [MENU] 0 [MENU] [EXIT] - Disable TDR:
[MENU] 7 [MENU] → OFF [MENU] [EXIT] - Optional — Delete existing channel data:
[MENU] 28 → [channel number] [MENU] [EXIT] - Enter the repeater output frequency (your receive frequency) using the keypad.
- Input the repeater offset:
[MENU] 26 [MENU] [offset] [MENU] [EXIT] - Enter the TX frequency shift:
[MENU] 25 [MENU] [1 = positive / 2 = negative] [MENU] [EXIT] - Optional — Enter TX CTCSS/DCS tone for repeater access:
CTCSS:[MENU] 13 [MENU] [code] [MENU] [EXIT]
DCS:[MENU] 12 [MENU] [code] [MENU] [EXIT] - Assign receive frequency to channel:
[MENU] 27 [MENU] [channel number] [MENU] [EXIT] - Press [*Scan] to activate Reverse Mode and display the TX frequency.
- Assign TX frequency to same channel:
[MENU] 27 [MENU] [same channel number] [MENU] [EXIT] - Press [*Scan] to exit Reverse Mode.
Recommended Accessories for the UV-5R III
- ▶ Speaker Mic — Handheld shoulder mic for easier hands-free communication.
- ▶ Programming Cable — Programme all 128 channels quickly via PC & CHIRP software.
- ▶ Bluetooth Programming Adapter — Programme your UV-5R III wirelessly from your smartphone.
- ▶ View All Baofeng Accessories
Who Uses the Baofeng UV-5R III in the UK?
The UV-5R III is popular with UK amateur radio operators, outdoor enthusiasts, and professional teams who need tri-band flexibility:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What makes the UV-5R III different from the standard UV-5R?
A: The key difference is the addition of the 220–260MHz (1.25 metre) band. The standard UV-5R covers VHF (2m) and UHF (70cm). The UV-5R III adds a third band — making it a genuine tri-band radio. All other features — 128 channels, CTCSS/DCS, VOX, FM receive, CHIRP compatibility — are shared with the standard UV-5R platform.
Q: Is the UV-5R III legal to use in the UK?
A: The UV-5R III is legal to own and receive on in the UK without a licence. To transmit, you require a valid UK Amateur Radio (Ham) Licence or a UK Business Radio Licence issued by Ofcom. It is not authorised for PMR446 licence-free channels. See our guide: UK Ham Radio Licences — Your Complete Guide.
Q: How do I programme the UV-5R III?
A: Two options are available. Use the free CHIRP software or official Baofeng CPS software with an original Baofeng USB programming cable — recommended. Manual keypad programming is also available — see the step-by-step guide in the programming section above. Full CHIRP guide: How to Program Your Baofeng Radio Using CHIRP.
Q: Does the UV-5R III work on UK repeaters?
A: Yes. With a valid UK Amateur Radio Licence, the UV-5R III can access UK repeaters on the VHF (2m) and UHF (70cm) bands. Programme the repeater input/output frequency, correct CTCSS access tone, and shift offset using CHIRP or the manual keypad method described above.
Q: Which antenna bundle should I choose?
A: The stock antenna is a good general-purpose option for most users. The NA-771 (38.5cm) provides higher gain on VHF and UHF for improved range — ideal for outdoor and rural UK use. The 18.8 inch CS Tactical Antenna is foldable and compact — suitable for field use where a longer fixed antenna would be impractical. All antennas use the SMA-Female connector and are plug-and-play compatible with the UV-5R III.
Q: VHF vs UHF — which band should I use with the UV-5R III?
A: VHF (136–174MHz) delivers greater range in open UK outdoor environments — hills, countryside, and large open sites. UHF (400–520MHz) penetrates buildings and urban structures better — ideal for cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham. The 1.25M band (220–260MHz) sits between the two and is less congested in most UK areas. Read more: VHF vs UHF — Which is Better?
Q: What earpiece connector does the UV-5R III use?
A: The UV-5R III uses a Kenwood K-Type 2-pin connector, compatible with all K-Type speaker mics, earpieces, and headsets. A PTT earpiece is included in the box.
Helpful Resources
- ▶ How to Program Your Baofeng Radio Using CHIRP — Step-by-Step Guide
- ▶ Download CHIRP — Free Radio Programming Software
- ▶ Download Official Baofeng CPS Programming Software
- ▶ UK Radio Licences — Ofcom Official Licensing
- ▶ VHF vs UHF — Which is Better? Full UK Guide
- ▶ UK Ham Radio Licences, Bands & Gear — Your Guide from Foundation to First Contact
UK LEGAL NOTICE: LICENCE REQUIRED TO TRANSMIT
IMPORTANT: The Baofeng UV-5R III is not a PMR446 licence-free radio. To transmit on its frequencies within the UK, you must hold a valid UK Amateur Radio (Ham) Licence or a UK Business Radio Licence issued by Ofcom. Transmitting without a licence is illegal and may result in prosecution. Receiving (listening only) is permitted without a licence. Please ensure you comply with all current UK radio licensing regulations before transmitting.
Reviews
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Uv5rx3
Nice little radio like most radios works better with a longer antenna it arrived very fast and was tracked 1st class product
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BAOFENG UV-5R III TRI-BAND
Great piece of kit just what I wanted and its a great price.
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Excellent
Excellent radio, excellent price, excellent service. Thank you.
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A* - Would use again!
Excellent service. Thank you.
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UV-R5 III
Efficient seller - All as expected, no problems - Fast delivery
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Capable and compact
The UV-R5 Tri-Band is a small but highly functional VHF/UHF transceiver that is readily portable with a long lasting battery. The radio can be programmed directly via the keyboard or via a PC. Highly recommended.