BAOFENG MINI-5 is a compact 5 W radio with 999 channels, Airband, NOAA and app programming

BAOFENG MINI-5 is a compact handheld radio that combines classic VHF/UHF communication with extended reception and modern programming through a mobile app.

Official specifications list 999 memory channels, 5 or 2 W output power, Airband reception, NOAA, commercial FM radio and support for the OLA Radio app.

VHF and UHF transmission

The MINI-5 transmits in the following ranges:

• VHF 136–174 MHz
• UHF 400–480 MHz

The power can be switched between approximately 5 W and 2 W.

As with any programmable radio, the technical ability to tune to a frequency does not automatically mean that you are permitted to use it. Users must comply with local regulations and licensing requirements.

Extended receiver

The receiver covers a wider spectrum:

• FM 76–108 MHz,
• Airband 108–136 MHz,
• VHF 136–174 MHz,
• 350–390 MHz,
• UHF 400–520 MHz,
• NOAA.

Airband is of interest to listeners of aviation communications, while NOAA makes the radio more relevant to users in North America.

Up to 999 memory channels

The radio can store 999 channels.

With that many channels, programming from a computer or phone makes more sense than entering frequencies manually.

OLA Radio on mobile

BAOFENG lists support for the OLA Radio app for Android and iOS.

This makes it easier to create channels and change settings.

The model also has Bluetooth, which is used for wireless configuration and other supported features.

25 or 12.5 kHz channel width

The supported modes are:

• Wide 25 kHz,
• Narrow 12.5 kHz.

Narrow bandwidth is common in modern professional and licensed use, where spectrum is used more efficiently.

1600 mAh battery

The official datasheet lists a 1600 mAh battery.

This is important because some product listings mention 2200 mAh. For the MINI-5, it is therefore sensible to check the specific version and the label on the supplied battery.

The operating voltage is approximately 7.4 V.

1 W speaker

The manufacturer lists an audio output of 1 W at 16 ohms.

For a small handheld radio, speaker volume is especially important outdoors or in a noisy work environment.

Kenwood 2-pin connector

Accessories connect through the traditional 2-pin Kenwood connector.

This is an advantage because a wide range of headsets, microphones and programming cables are available for this standard.

Dimensions and weight

Without the antenna, the MINI-5 measures approximately:

• 108 × 52 × 37 mm
• 200 g including the battery

So it is not an extremely tiny radio, but it is still fairly compact.

BAOFENG MINI-5 key specifications

Watch out for differing seller specifications

Different battery capacity figures appear in listings for the MINI-5. The official BAOFENG website currently lists 1600 mAh, while some listings state 2200 mAh.

This may indicate a different regional version or simply an inaccurate product description.

Who is the MINI-5 suitable for?

It will appeal most to users who want a programmable VHF/UHF handheld with ample memory and the option to configure it using a phone.

Airband and the wide reception range are a welcome bonus.

Is the BAOFENG MINI-5 worth it?

The MINI-5 offers 999 channels, 5 W output, Airband and mobile programming in a relatively compact body.

The biggest drawback is the confusion in some sellers’ specifications, especially regarding the battery. It is therefore worth checking the specific variant before buying. The radio itself, however, makes sense on paper as a modern, inexpensive programmable handheld.