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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-21R vs Radioddity GS-10B

Our pick

Baofeng UV-21R$26.99

The Baofeng UV-21R offers better listed specs for the money, with a RadioRanked score of 74 versus 73 for the Radioddity GS-10B. However, this is effectively a tie—both radios share identical feature sets (no DMR, APRS, or GPS), both enjoy 4.5-star owner ratings, and both support CHIRP programming. The real difference comes down to price and power.

The UV-21R costs $27 and delivers 6W of transmit power, while the GS-10B runs $48 for 8W and slightly lighter weight at 280g versus 300g. The power difference is meaningful for reaching repeaters and simplex contacts, but the price gap is substantial. The Baofeng owners have submitted 775 reviews versus 23 for the Radioddity, giving significantly more buyer feedback to consider.

Buy the Baofeng UV-21R if budget is your primary concern and you can work with 6W output. Buy the Radioddity GS-10B if the extra 2W of power and marginally lighter weight justify nearly double the price for you.

For most new operators, the UV-21R makes more sense—it delivers solid performance at an unbeatable price point, with extensive owner feedback backing the 4.5-star rating.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its extremely low price and high channel count make it perfect for starting out.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
  • Portable field use requiring tri-band coverage

    The tri-band capability offers superior coverage for diverse field operations.

    GS-10B
  • Operator needing basic repeater access and simplicity

    It is designed for simple local repeater work and basic VHF/UHF operations.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
  • Hobbyist focused on emergency preparedness kits

    Its features and portability make it ideal for emergency communication kits.

    GS-10B
  • New licensee needing a simple, reliable starter radio

    The UV-21R is highly rated for beginners and offers basic functionality.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
  • Casual portable use needing extra power and connectivity

    The higher transmit power and Bluetooth feature enhance casual field use.

    GS-10B

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-21R

  • 44% cheaper ($26.99 vs $47.99)
  • 4x more memory channels (999 vs 256)
  • IP54 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radioddity GS-10B

  • 33% more TX power (8W vs 6W)
  • 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • 20g lighter (280g vs 300g)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-21RSpecRadioddity GS-10B
$26.99
Price
$47.99
74
Overall Score
73
+1% for winner
6.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+33% for winner
999
Memory Channels
256
3.8× difference
300g
Weight
280g
+8% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+39% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
Color LCD
IP54
IP Rating
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
gray
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
gray
Color
Black
3.7 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
UV-21R
Model Number
GS-10B
1XRadio Body, 1x21CM Antenna&1x39CM Antenna, 1xBelt Clip&1XType-C Charging Cable&1XUS Plug, 1xLanyard&1XManual&1xScrewdriver, Battery
Built-In Media
1 x GS-10B Ham Radio, 1 x Headset, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable & 1 x Adapter, Battery, Belt Clip
UV-21R
Mfr Part Number
QYWRAGSYLBA01
Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Handheld Radio, Mobile App, Repeater
Emergency Alarm, Long Range
Additional Features
1.77" Large Color Display, Bluetooth APP Programming, TX Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable, VOX
NO
Warranty Description
18-month warranty and lifetime support

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-21RPICK

$26.99 on Amazon

Radioddity GS-10B

$47.99 on Amazon

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