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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-21R vs Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio

Our pick

Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio$105.99

The Baofeng UV-21R is the clear winner here. This is a straightforward choice where you get superior performance at a fraction of the cost.

The most important differentiator is value proposition. The UV-21R costs less than a quarter of the price while delivering higher transmit power (6W vs 5W) and a significantly better overall score (71 vs 38). CHIRP compatibility on the Baofeng also means easier programming without proprietary software, a practical advantage that matters in the field.

The UV-21R suits anyone building a starter radio kit or wanting a dependable dual-band handheld without overspending. The Wouxun appeals only to users with specific legacy system requirements or those who specifically prefer its ergonomics despite the cost and capability disadvantages.

For most amateur radio operators, the choice is obvious: buy the Baofeng UV-21R. You'll save money, gain more power, and get a radio that reviewers rated substantially higher. There's no compelling reason to spend four times as much for inferior specs and lower performance ratings.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee

    It costs less than the Wouxun and covers the VHF and UHF bands a new licensee needs for local repeaters.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
  • Buyer wanting a rugged radio for field use

    Its IP55 rating offers dust and water resistance that the Baofeng does not advertise.

    Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
  • ARES or local simplex net volunteer

    Its 6W transmit power and larger 999-channel memory suit net operations on many frequencies.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
  • Portable operator who values a lighter radio

    At 253g it is noticeably lighter than the 300g Baofeng, which matters on long hikes.

    Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
  • Operator needing 220MHz band access

    It includes the 220MHz band that the Wouxun does not cover, expanding the operating options.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
  • Buyer seeking a higher feature score

    It earns a higher feature score and includes CHIRP programming support for flexible channel setup.

    UV-21R 6W Tri-Band

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-21R

  • 20% more TX power (6W vs 5W)
  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 199)
  • 6% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1700 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio

  • 47g lighter (253g vs 300g)
  • IP55 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-21RSpecWouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
—
Price
$105.99
58
Overall Score
47
+23% for winner
6.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+20% for winner
999
Memory Channels
199
5.0× difference
300g
Weight
253g
+19% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
1700 mAh
+6% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
—
IP Rating
IP55
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
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
KG-UV6D
1XRadio Body, 1x21CM Antenna&1x39CM Antenna, 1xBelt Clip&1XType-C Charging Cable&1XUS Plug, 1xLanyard&1XManual&1xScrewdriver, Battery
Built-In Media
Li-ion Battery Pack (1700mAh), Charger, Antenna, Belt Clip, OTH-005, Hand Strap
UV-21R
Mfr Part Number
KG-UV6D
IP54
Waterproof Rating
IP55
Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Yaesu, ICOM, FRS two-way radios, and the included antenna
Emergency Alarm, Long Range
Additional Features
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-21RPICK

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Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio

$105.99 on Amazon

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