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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

APX-8000 vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Radioddity GD-168$139.99

The Radioddity GD-168 edges out the APX-8000 by a slim margin, earning a slight overall advantage despite nearly identical specifications and pricing. Both radios lack modern digital features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, and neither supports CHIRP programming, which limits their appeal to serious hobbyists.

The single most important differentiator is the APX-8000's confirmed 12W transmit power versus the GD-168's unknown output. If raw transmission strength matters for your use case, the APX-8000 delivers measurable performance. However, the GD-168's marginally higher overall score of 44 versus 42 suggests better performance in other unmeasured categories, possibly receiver quality or build durability.

The APX-8000 suits budget-conscious operators who prioritize confirmed power output for range-critical applications. The Radioddity GD-168 works better for users willing to accept unknown TX specs in exchange for slightly better overall engineering and performance integration.

Given the tight scoring differential and comparable pricing, neither radio represents a standout choice. Consider waiting for units with modern digital capabilities, CHIRP support, and GPS integration, which are increasingly available at similar price points.

Runner-up
APX-8000
APX-8000

$129.99

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time VHF/UHF licensee

    The APX-8000 offers better value and a higher starting range for less money.

    APX-8000
  • Operator needing maximum channel capacity

    The GD-168's massive 4000 channel memory is ideal for high-traffic repeater areas.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • POTA/SOTA portable field use

    The APX-8000's superior axes scores suggest better overall performance and range for portability.

    APX-8000
  • Secondary radio for reliable backup use

    The GD-168's high channel count makes it a versatile secondary radio for various needs.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Technician needing basic repeater coverage

    The APX-8000 is specifically marketed for basic repeater needs and is highly rated for beginners.

    APX-8000

Reasons to choose APX-8000

  • 7% cheaper ($129.99 vs $139.99)
  • 140% more TX power (12W vs 5W)
  • 389% more battery (8800 mAh vs 1800 mAh)

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 31x more memory channels (4,000 vs 128)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

APX-8000SpecRadioddity GD-168
$129.99
Price
$139.99
39
Overall Score
71
+82% for winner
12.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.4× difference
128
Memory Channels
4000
33.3× difference
8800 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
5.0× difference
Color LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Green
color
Black
Green
Color
Black
APX-8000
Model Number
GD-168
Two-way radios operating on VHF (136.025-173.975 MHz) and UHF (406.125-469.125 MHz) frequencies, compatible headsets, earpieces, and external antennas
Compatible Devices
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Radioddity GD-168PICK

$139.99 on Amazon

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