RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026APX-8000 vs Radioddity GD-168
Our pick
Radioddity GD-168$139.99
The Radioddity GD-168 is the clear winner for most buyers. It offers substantially better listed specifications for identical price, scoring 72 versus 39 on RadioRanked's composite metric. The most important differentiator is feature set: the GD-168 includes DMR and APRS capability while the APX-8000 lacks both, making the Radioddity far more versatile for digital modes and location tracking. The APX-8000 does transmit at higher power (12W versus 5W), but this alone doesn't offset its feature disadvantage at the same price point.
Owners report different experiences: GD-168 buyers rate it 4.2 out of 5 across 12 reviews, while APX-8000 owners average 3.5 out of 5 across 30 reviews. This suggests satisfaction with the Radioddity, though the APX-8000's larger review pool provides more buyer data.
Buy the Radioddity GD-168 if you want digital modes and better overall specifications at this price. Buy the APX-8000 only if you specifically need 12W transmit power and have no interest in DMR or APRS. For most amateur radio use cases, the GD-168 provides better value.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-minded buyer moving into DMR
The GD-168 brings DMR and APRS at a price that costs less than the APX-8000, making digital access affordable.
Radioddity GD-168Technician operator needing long simplex range
The 12W transmitter gives the APX-8000 more output for analog simplex contacts than the 5W GD-168 can match.
APX-8000Entry-level user wanting simple analog repeater access
Its analog-only VHF and UHF operation suits basic repeater coverage without the added menus of digital modes.
APX-8000Buyer who wants a color screen and APRS
The GD-168 offers APRS and a color display, features the APX-8000 does not provide.
Radioddity GD-168Operator needing deep channel and contact storage
With 4000 channels, the GD-168 holds far more memory than the APX-8000's 128-channel capacity.
Radioddity GD-168Buyer prioritizing a lighter, more compact handheld
The APX-8000 scores higher on portability, making it the better pick for carrying all day on the go.
APX-8000
Reasons to choose APX-8000
- 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
Made your choice?
APX-8000
Search on AmazonRadioddity GD-168PICK
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