RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng BF-F8HP vs Baofeng UV-28
Our pick
Baofeng BF-F8HP$84.89
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?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
Costs slightly less and offers far more memory channels for a growing local repeater list.
UV-28Weight-sensitive hiker on long trails
Weighs noticeably less, making it easier to carry during long hikes and backpacking trips.
BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-CSOTA activator needing field logging
GPS and Bluetooth support suit summit logging and field coordination better than the simpler model.
UV-28ARES or RACES emergency team member
Higher transmit power and a larger channel bank help during ARES or RACES deployments.
UV-28Operator wanting a simple radio
Fewer features mean a simpler menu structure for someone learning basic VHF and UHF operating.
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
- 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-F8HPPICK
$84.89 on AmazonBaofeng UV-28
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