The Baofeng UV-7B is the clear winner for most users despite its lower feature set. The single most important differentiator is price: at 25 dollars versus 140 dollars, the UV-7B costs one-fifth as much while delivering a higher overall score of 71 versus 67.
The AT-D168UV targets operators who need DMR digital capability and APRS functionality for emergency coordination or repeater networks, making it the better choice for experienced hams integrating into organized digital systems. The UV-7B suits budget-conscious beginners and casual operators who need basic VHF/UHF coverage without digital features or long-term feature commitments.
If you're just starting in amateur radio or want a backup radio without significant investment, the UV-7B is the obvious pick. The AT-D168UV only makes sense if you specifically operate on DMR networks where those digital features are essential to your use case. Given that the cheaper radio outscores the expensive one overall, the Baofeng represents far better value for the typical amateur radio operator. The gap in price justifies choosing the UV-7B unless you have explicit digital mode requirements.
By use case
First-time digital mode operator
It supports DMR and APRS, making it ideal for learning modern digital modes.
Ultra budget-conscious backup radio
Its extremely low price point makes it perfect for a secondary or loaner unit.
Portable POTA/SOTA field use
The higher power and multi-network support offer better reliability in the field.
New licensee needing basic comms
It offers excellent basic functionality and is very easy for beginners to use.
Operator needing multi-network support
Its built-in support for DMR and APRS provides necessary multi-network flexibility.
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D168UV
$139.99 on AmazonBaofeng UV-7BPICK
$26.99 on Amazon