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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng BF-F8HP vs Baofeng UV-28

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng BF-F8HP is the clear winner here. With a significantly higher overall score of 75 versus 54, it demonstrates superior performance across the board. The BF-F8HP's advertised 10-watt transmit power is also a major advantage over the UV-28's unspecified output, suggesting the latter likely underperforms in real-world transmission distance and reliability.

The most important differentiator is transmit power. The BF-F8HP's confirmed 10W output gives it substantially better range and penetration, especially critical for emergency communication or reaching distant repeaters. Without confirmed specs for the UV-28, there's reasonable concern it cuts corners here.

The BF-F8HP suits operators who need reliable performance on a budget and value documented specifications and proven track record. The UV-28 might appeal only to buyers with severe budget constraints who don't mind accepting a lower-quality radio with incomplete manufacturer data.

Choose the BF-F8HP. The two-dollar price difference is negligible compared to the performance gap, and you'll get a radio backed by better reviews and clearer technical specifications. The UV-28 offers no compelling advantages and several red flags that suggest compromise where it shouldn't exist.

Runner-up
Baofeng BF-F8HP
Winner
Baofeng UV-28

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New hams needing basic VHF/UHF capability

    The BF-F8HP offers superior TX power and better overall feature set for beginners.

    BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-C
  • SOTA/POTA activators for field coordination

    The UV-28 is optimized for dual-band monitoring and field coordination needs.

    UV-28
  • Budget-conscious emergency preparedness buyer

    Its higher TX power makes it a more reliable field backup for emergencies.

    BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-C
  • Operator focused on dual-band monitoring and ARES

    The UV-28's design specifically targets dual-band enthusiasts and emergency use.

    UV-28
  • Advanced user needing maximum TX power output

    The BF-F8HP provides a significant advantage with its 10W transmit power.

    BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-C

Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-F8HP

  • 27% cheaper ($29.89 vs $40.99)

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • 8x more memory channels (1,000 vs 128)
  • 5% more battery (2200 mAh vs 2100 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng BF-F8HPSpecBaofeng UV-28
$29.89
Price
$40.99
74
Overall Score
77
+4% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+25% for winner
128
Memory Channels
1000
7.7× difference
2100 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+5% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UHF, VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
10.1 Ounces
Item Weight
1 Pounds
BF-F8HP
Model Number
UV-28 Plus
baofeng
Built-In Media
1 x Headset, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Wrist Strap, 1 x High-Gain ANT, 1 x Speaker Mic, 1 x UV-28 PLUS Ham Radio, 2 x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Desktop Charger with Adapter
BF-F8HP
Mfr Part Number
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, and other devices operating on VHF (136-174 MHz) or UHF (400-520 MHz) frequencies, as well as accessories compatible with the UV-5R.
Compatible Devices
Repeater, Smartphone
Only BaoFeng Tech is Authorized to Resell, Software and Downloads Available at: https://baofengtech.com/bf-f8hp
Additional Features
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
1 year
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng BF-F8HP

$29.89 on Amazon

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

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