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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

AnyTone AT-D878UV vs TYT TH-UV88

Our pick

AnyTone AT-D878UV$249.99

The AnyTone AT-D878UV is the clear winner for anyone serious about amateur radio. The price difference is substantial, but you're paying for genuinely superior capabilities that justify the investment.

The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The AT-D878UV includes DMR digital mode, APRS tracking, and GPS functionality, making it future-proof and versatile for modern radio operations. The TYT TH-UV88 is a basic analog FM transceiver with no digital capabilities or emergency location features.

The AT-D878UV suits hams who want a capable dual-band radio for repeaters, digital networks, and emergency preparedness. The TYT TH-UV88 is best for budget-conscious beginners who need nothing more than simple local FM communication and aren't concerned about programming through CHIRP.

We recommend the AnyTone AT-D878UV for virtually anyone with a flexible budget. It delivers strong power output, essential digital features, and emergency tools at a reasonable price point. The TYT is tempting on price alone, but its lack of digital capability and CHIRP support creates real limitations that undermine any savings within a year of ownership.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Ham enthusiast needing DMR and APRS

    The AT-D878UV offers essential advanced features like DMR and APRS.

    AT-D878UV
  • New licensed operator on a tight budget

    The TYT TH-UV88 provides basic functionality for monitoring repeaters affordably.

    TH-UV88
  • Operator needing reliable backup or loaner radio

    Its low cost makes it perfect for a secondary or temporary radio unit.

    TH-UV88
  • Advanced user prioritizing feature count and modes

    The AT-D878UV supports multiple digital modes and has a high feature count.

    AT-D878UV
  • Casual repeater monitoring or basic testing

    This radio is sufficient for simple monitoring without needing advanced features.

    TH-UV88

Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D878UV

  • 40% more TX power (7W vs 5W)
  • 20x more memory channels (4,000 vs 200)
  • 121% more battery (3100 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display
  • IP54 water resistance

Reasons to choose TYT TH-UV88

  • 84% cheaper ($39.99 vs $249.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D878UVSpecTYT TH-UV88
$249.99
Price
$39.99
85
Overall Score
57
+49% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+41% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
200
20.0× difference
280g
Weight
3100 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
2.2× difference
Color TFT
Display
LCD
IP54
IP Rating
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
5 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts
AT-D878UVII Plus
Model Number
TH-UV88
antenna, battery pack, programming cable, belt clip, wrist strap, user manual, and warranty card.
Built-In Media
1 x TH-UV88 Handheld Radio, 1 x Original Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x High Gain Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x Acoustic Tube Headset, 1 x 1400mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Charger Kit, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x User Manual
Two-way radios operating on VHF (136-174MHz) and UHF (400-480MHz) frequencies with 4FSK digital modulation, and standard two-way radio accessories
Compatible Devices
CHIRP software, TYT radios (VHF/UHF)
Battery Strength Indicator
Additional Features
Dual Band

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D878UVPICK

$249.99 on Amazon

TYT TH-UV88

$39.99 on Amazon

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