Top Features of the Quansheng UV-K5
- Full-Band Coverage: Supports AM, VHF (136-174MHz), and UHF (400-520MHz) transmission, with a wide receive range up to 600MHz covering air band (118-137MHz), FM broadcast, and more.
- 200 Memory Channels: Store and scan up to 200 frequency channels at high speed for efficient channel management across multiple teams or locations.
- Enhanced Battery Life: The 1600mAh Li-ion battery provides up to 12 hours of continuous use. Recharge via USB-C fast charging from any standard phone charger or power bank.
- Built-In Frequency Counter: A built-in frequency meter enables precise tuning and helps identify nearby active frequencies — a valuable tool for ham radio operators.
- Custom Firmware Support: Supports official Quansheng firmware and community open-source firmware (EGZUMER) with regular updates for expanded functionality.
- 10 NOAA Weather Channels: Monitor weather alert frequencies for up-to-date conditions — essential for outdoor adventures and field operations across the UK.
- Stock Antenna with Upgrade Option: SMA-F connector for easy upgrade to higher-gain antennas when extended range is required.
- Base Charger Included: Conveniently charge your UV-K5 at home, in the office, or in the field using the included desktop base charger.
- Programming Cable Compatible: Easily connect to a PC via a USB programming cable to manage channels, update firmware, and fine-tune settings.
- Additional Features: VOX hands-free operation, dual watch/standby, CTCSS/DCS squelch tones, keypad lock, battery voltage display, and FM radio receiver.
Quansheng UV-K5 vs UV-K6: Which Should You Choose?
Not sure whether to go with the UV-K5 or the newer UV-K6? Here is a direct side-by-side comparison to help you decide:
| Feature |
Quansheng UV-K5 |
Quansheng UV-K6 |
| Receive Range |
50-600MHz |
50-600MHz |
| Transmit Range |
VHF 136-174MHz / UHF 400-520MHz |
VHF 136-174MHz / UHF 400-520MHz |
| Output Power |
5W / 1W |
5W / 2W |
| Air Band Reception |
Yes (118-137MHz AM) |
Yes (118-137MHz AM) |
| Memory Channels |
200 |
200 |
| Charging |
USB Type-C |
USB Type-C |
| Battery |
1600mAh |
1500mAh |
| Speaker |
Standard |
Upgraded |
| Open Firmware Support |
Widest community support |
Full support |
| CHIRP Compatible |
Yes |
Yes |
| Wireless Frequency Copy |
Yes |
Yes |
| Best For |
Firmware enthusiasts & value buyers |
Users wanting latest hardware |
Technical Specifications — Quansheng UV-K5
General Specifications
| Receive Frequency Range | 50-600MHz (Multi-Band) |
|---|
| Transmit Frequency Range | VHF: 136-174MHz | UHF: 400-520MHz |
|---|
| Air Band Reception | 118-137MHz (AM, Receive Only) |
|---|
| Memory Channels | 200 Channels |
|---|
| Channel Spacing | 25KHz (Wide) / 12.5KHz (Narrow) |
|---|
| Operating Voltage | DC 7.4V |
|---|
| Battery | 1600mAh Li-ion (USB-C Rechargeable) |
|---|
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours (typical use) |
|---|
| Charging | USB Type-C / Desktop Base Charger |
|---|
| NOAA Weather Channels | 10 Channels |
|---|
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +60°C |
|---|
| Antenna Connector | SMA-F (Female) |
|---|
| Dimensions | 110 x 58 x 30mm (excluding antenna) |
|---|
| Weight | Approx. 200g (including battery & antenna) |
|---|
Transmitter Specifications
| Output Power | 5W (High) / 1W (Low) |
|---|
| Modulation | 16KF3E (Wide) / 11KF3E (Narrow) |
|---|
| Maximum Frequency Deviation | ≤ ±5KHz (Wide) / ≤ ±2.5KHz (Narrow) |
|---|
| Spurious Emission | ≤ -60dBm |
|---|
| Adjacent Channel Power | ≤ -65dB |
|---|
Receiver Specifications
| Receiver Sensitivity | ≤ 0.2uV (12dB SINAD) |
|---|
| Audio Output Power | 500mW @ 10% |
|---|
| Adjacent Channel Selectivity | ≥ 65dB (Wide) / ≥ 60dB (Narrow) |
|---|
| Intermodulation Rejection | ≥ 65dB |
|---|
| Spurious Response Rejection | ≥ 65dB |
|---|
How to Program the Quansheng UV-K5 Using CHIRP
Programming your UV-K5 with CHIRP software is straightforward. Follow these steps to configure your channels on a PC or laptop:
- Download and install the free CHIRP software from chirpmyradio.com on your Windows, Mac, or Linux PC.
- Connect your UV-K5 to your PC using a compatible USB programming cable. Power the radio on.
- In CHIRP, go to Radio → Download From Radio. Select Quansheng UV-K5 from the model list and choose the correct COM port.
- Edit your channels in the CHIRP channel editor — enter frequencies, CTCSS/DCS tones, channel names, and power settings as required.
- Go to Radio → Upload To Radio to write your settings back to the UV-K5. Your radio is now fully programmed.
Tip: Save your CHIRP channel file (.img) to your PC as a backup. This makes it easy to reprogram replacement radios or share settings with team members.
Applications for Every Need
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Stay connected during hiking, camping, or trekking across the UK countryside. The UV-K5 provides long-range communication and NOAA weather monitoring from the Yorkshire Dales to Snowdonia.
Ham Radio Operators
Leverage frequency scanning, multi-band coverage, open firmware, and CHIRP compatibility. The UV-K5 is the go-to radio for UK amateur radio clubs and Foundation licence holders.
Event Organisers
Coordinate large UK festivals, sporting events, and corporate functions. The 200 memory channels and high scanning speed keep teams connected without crosstalk.
Security Professionals
Depend on the UV-K5 across demanding environments — from city centres to remote UK estates. The 12-hour battery supports full working shifts without recharging.
UV-K5 Bulk Orders & B2B Solutions for UK Businesses
Need radios for your team? The Quansheng UV-K5 offers exceptional value for UK organisations. We provide volume discounts, pre-programmed channel setups, and dedicated account support for business clients.
Popular UK Business Use Cases
- Security firms & door supervisors
- Construction & building sites
- Event management & festivals
- Hotels & hospitality venues
- Farms & rural estates
- Schools & universities
- Warehouse & logistics operations
- Film & TV production crews
Request a B2B quote: info@baofengradio.co.uk
Frequently Asked Questions — Quansheng UV-K5
Is the Quansheng UV-K5 legal to use in the UK?
The UV-K5 is legal to own and use for receiving (listening) in the UK without any licence. To transmit, you must hold a valid UK Amateur Radio Licence (Foundation, Intermediate, or Full) or an Ofcom Business Radio Licence. Air band transmission is strictly prohibited. To learn how to get licensed, read our UK Ham Radio Licence guide.
What is the difference between the Quansheng UV-K5 and UV-K6?
The UV-K6 is the newer model featuring an upgraded speaker and minor firmware refinements. Both share the same receive range (50-600MHz), 200 channels, USB-C charging, and open firmware support. The UV-K5 has a slightly larger 1600mAh battery and remains the preferred choice for users who want the widest community firmware support.
Can I install custom firmware on the Quansheng UV-K5?
Yes. The UV-K5 is one of the most firmware-friendly radios available. It supports the official Quansheng firmware and the popular open-source EGZUMER firmware, which unlocks additional features including a spectrum analyser, enhanced scanning, and expanded memory. You can flash firmware using a USB programming cable connected to a PC.
Does the Quansheng UV-K5 support CHIRP software?
Yes. The UV-K5 is fully compatible with CHIRP, the free open-source radio programming software. You can manage all 200 memory channels, set CTCSS/DCS tones, configure power levels, and import or export channel files. A USB programming cable is required.
Can the Quansheng UV-K5 receive air band frequencies?
Yes. The UV-K5 receives air band frequencies between 118-137MHz in AM mode, ideal for aviation enthusiasts monitoring ATC at UK airports such as Heathrow, Gatwick, and Manchester. Transmitting on air band is strictly illegal in the UK and carries serious criminal penalties under the Wireless Telegraphy Act 2006.
What battery does the Quansheng UV-K5 use and how long does it last?
The UV-K5 uses a 1600mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery providing up to 12 hours of use. Battery life depends on transmit power and usage pattern. The USB Type-C port allows charging from any standard phone charger or portable power bank.
How do I program the Quansheng UV-K5?
You can program the UV-K5 manually via the keypad, or use a USB programming cable with CHIRP software (select ‘Quansheng UV-K5’ from the radio list) or the official Quansheng CPS software. Both allow full control over all 200 channels, CTCSS/DCS tones, and power settings. See our step-by-step programming guide in the section above.
What is included in the Quansheng UV-K5 box?
Each UV-K5 package includes: 1x radio unit, 1x 1600mAh Li-ion battery, 1x stock antenna, 1x USB-C charging cable, 1x desktop base charger, 1x belt clip, 1x hand strap, 1x earpiece, and 1x instruction manual. Everything you need to get started right out of the box.
Order Your Quansheng UV-K5 Today
12 months warranty, and full technical support included as standard.
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The Best Budget Multi-Band Radio for UK Ham Enthusiasts
The Quansheng UV-K5 has earned its reputation as one of the best-value multi-band handheld radios in the United Kingdom. Combining full-band coverage up to 600MHz, custom firmware flexibility, USB-C charging, and a feature set that rivals radios costing three times as much, the UV-K5 is the go-to choice for UK Foundation licence holders, amateur radio clubs, outdoor adventurers, and budget-conscious professionals alike. From monitoring ATC at regional airports to coordinating security teams across large UK venues, this radio delivers reliable, versatile performance every time.
All Quansheng UV-K5 radios sold by Baofeng Radio UK are genuine units, with 12 months warranty and dedicated UK customer support. New to amateur radio? Our UK Ham Radio Licence guide explains everything you need to know to get started legally and confidently.
