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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

ABBREE AR-30W vs TYT MD-UV390

Our pick

TYT MD-UV390$120.99

The TYT MD-UV390 is the stronger choice for most buyers. The decisive factor is DMR digital mode support: the MD-UV390 can access DMR networks, while the AR-30W cannot. For digital radio enthusiasts or anyone in an area with DMR repeaters, this alone makes the MD-UV390 essential. Beyond that, the MD-UV390 offers an IP67 weather rating for durability in wet conditions, where the AR-30W has no rating listed. Both carry identical 4.0 out of 5 owner ratings, though the MD-UV390 draws from 142 reviews versus 7, giving much stronger evidence of consistent owner satisfaction. The MD-UV390 also specifies 5W transmit power while the AR-30W leaves this unknown. At 31 dollars more, the MD-UV390 delivers better documented features and buyer feedback.

The AR-30W appeals only to budget buyers who need GPS for location features and accept analog-only operation. The MD-UV390 is the pick for anyone serious about digital modes or wanting proven weather resistance and deeper owner validation.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained buyer wanting a basic handheld

    It costs less than the alternative and covers VHF and UHF with 500 channels for everyday use.

    ABBREE AR-30W
  • New licensee building a first shack

    Its simpler analog operation and lower price make it an easier starting point for a new licensee.

    ABBREE AR-30W
  • Vehicle installation for RV or truck

    It suits mobile use in a truck or RV and works well for coordinated net operations.

    ABBREE AR-30W
  • Hams wanting to try DMR on a budget

    It adds DMR digital mode support, which the other radio lacks, at a moderate price difference.

    MD-UV390
  • Wet or dusty outdoor outings

    Its IP67 rating protects it against water and dust, which the other radio does not offer.

    MD-UV390
  • Operator who programs large codeplugs

    With 3000 channels and a higher feature score, it handles large channel lists better than the alternative.

    MD-UV390

Reasons to choose ABBREE AR-30W

  • 28% cheaper ($86.96 vs $120.99)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390

  • 6x more memory channels (3,000 vs 500)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • IP67 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

ABBREE AR-30WSpecTYT MD-UV390
$86.96
Price
$120.99
52
Overall Score
61
+18% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
500
Memory Channels
3000
5.9× difference
—
Battery
2200 mAh
Color LCD
Display
Color LCD
—
IP Rating
IP67
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

ABBREE AR-30W

$86.96 on Amazon

TYT MD-UV390PICK

$120.99 on Amazon

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