RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng BF-F8HP vs Y23UV-98PLUS
Our pick
Baofeng BF-F8HP$45.00
The Baofeng BF-F8HP is the clear winner for most users.
The single most important differentiator is the owner feedback: the BF-F8HP has 4.5 stars from over 15,000 Amazon reviews versus 4.0 stars from just 16 reviews for the Y23UV-98PLUS. This massive difference in review volume gives us real confidence in what owners actually experience with the Baofeng.
Both radios offer comparable listed specifications. The Y23UV adds APRS and GPS while the Baofeng offers slightly lower price and CHIRP compatibility. However, these spec differences are modest and the Y23UV's weight is unknown, making full comparison difficult.
The Baofeng costs $33 less and comes with substantially more owner data supporting its performance. The Y23UV's limited review count makes it impossible to assess whether its extra features justify the price premium or how it holds up in real use.
Buy the Baofeng BF-F8HP if you want proven reliability at the best price. Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS only if APRS and GPS are essential to your operations and you're willing to bet on minimal owner feedback.
Get the Baofeng.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time, budget-conscious hams
The Baofeng offers excellent basic functionality at a significantly lower entry price point.
BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-CHams needing basic APRS tracking
The Y23UV includes dedicated APRS support, which the Baofeng lacks.
Y23UV-98PLUSOperators prioritizing maximum value
The Baofeng provides a strong feature set while maintaining the lowest possible cost.
BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-CPortable field use and camping
The Y23UV is better suited for portable use due to its added APRS and GPS features.
Y23UV-98PLUSBeginners needing basic VHF/UHF
Its simple operation and low cost make it ideal for initial learning and basic communication.
BF-F8HP PRO 10W Tri Band Two-Way Radio, IP54, 1000 Channels, GPS, Aviation RX, USB-C
Reasons to choose Baofeng BF-F8HP
- 43% cheaper ($45.00 vs $78.28)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS
- 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
- 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
- 20% more battery (2400 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng BF-F8HPPICK
$45.00 on AmazonY23UV-98PLUS
$78.28 on AmazonKeep researching
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