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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

APX-8000 vs Y23UV-98PLUS

Our pick

Y23UV-98PLUS$96.85

The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner here, delivering significantly better value and capability for less money.

The most important differentiator is the overall scoring gap: the Y23UV-98PLUS scores 70/100 while the APX-8000 limps in at 39/100. This isn't a close call. Beyond the numbers, the Y23UV-98PLUS includes APRS and GPS functionality that the APX-8000 entirely lacks, making it genuinely useful for location tracking and emergency situations. You're also saving $33 upfront with slightly lower but still respectable 10W transmit power.

The APX-8000 might appeal to budget-conscious buyers who prioritize absolute lowest price, but you're sacrificing too much capability for just $33 in savings. The Y23UV-98PLUS is the smarter choice for anyone wanting a functional radio that won't become obsolete.

Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS if you want a modern handheld that actually does something useful. The APX-8000 is only worth considering if the extra $33 genuinely breaks your budget and you have absolutely no interest in location features.

Get the Y23UV-98PLUS without hesitation. It outperforms the APX-8000 in nearly every meaningful way while costing less.

Runner-up
APX-8000
APX-8000

$129.99

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner needing basic tracking and features

    Its built-in GPS and APRS make it ideal for learning field operation.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Technician needing long-range simplex VHF/UHF

    The higher transmit power and analog focus suit dedicated long-distance operators.

    APX-8000
  • Budget-conscious buyer prioritizing overall features

    The lower price point combined with 1024 channels offers great value.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Experienced operator needing reliable basic repeater access

    Its focus on analog VHF/UHF and robust design suits traditional repeater use.

    APX-8000
  • Portable camping or field use with tracking

    The combination of GPS and portability makes it perfect for outdoor trips.

    Y23UV-98PLUS

Reasons to choose APX-8000

  • 20% more TX power (12W vs 10W)
  • 267% more battery (8800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)

Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS

  • 25% cheaper ($96.85 vs $129.99)
  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

APX-8000SpecY23UV-98PLUS
$129.99
Price
$96.85
39
Overall Score
70
+79% for winner
12.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+20% for winner
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
8800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
3.7× difference
Color LCD
Display
TFT Color
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Green
color
Standard
Green
Color
Standard
APX-8000
Model Number
Y23UV-98PLUS
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
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Y23UV-98PLUSPICK

$96.85 on Amazon

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