RadioRanked verdict
Updated Sep 2026Baofeng BF-F8HP vs Baofeng UV-28
Our pick
Baofeng UV-28$42.99
The UV-28 edges out the BF-F8HP as the better value proposition, though the margin is narrow. Both radios offer solid specifications for the price, with nearly identical overall scores reflecting good listed specs for their cost.
The single most important differentiator is GPS capability. The UV-28 includes GPS while the BF-F8HP does not. The UV-28 also delivers 2 watts more transmit power and costs two dollars less, though it is 74 grams heavier. Both support CHIRP programming, lack DMR and APRS, and are priced under fifty dollars.
The BF-F8HP should appeal to buyers who prioritize lightweight portability and have less need for location tracking. The UV-28 is the better choice for operators who want GPS functionality and extra power output without paying a premium.
If GPS matters for your operations, the UV-28 is the clear pick. If you have no use for GPS and value a lighter radio, the BF-F8HP remains solid. The BF-F8HP's higher owner rating reflects feedback from substantially more reviews, which carries more statistical weight than the UV-28's limited sample. For most users, the UV-28 offers better specified capabilities for equivalent money, making it the stronger recommendation overall.
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-CSOTA/POTA activators for field coordination
The UV-28 is optimized for dual-band monitoring and field coordination needs.
UV-28Budget-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-COperator focused on dual-band monitoring and ARES
The UV-28's design specifically targets dual-band enthusiasts and emergency use.
UV-28Advanced 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
- 74g lighter (286g vs 360g)
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 4% cheaper ($42.99 vs $45.00)
- 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
- 8x more memory channels (1,000 vs 128)
- 10% more battery (2200 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng BF-F8HP
$45.00 on AmazonBaofeng UV-28PICK
$42.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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