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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-25 vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng UV-25$54.39

The Baofeng UV-25 is the clear winner here. It outperforms the RT-880 across nearly every measurable category with a significantly higher overall score of 76 versus 52, lower price point, and more useful features.

The single most important differentiator is the UV-25's GPS capability combined with CHIRP compatibility and confirmed 10W transmission power. The RT-880 lacks GPS, CHIRP support, and even publishes its TX power specification, which raises reliability concerns. These aren't minor conveniences—GPS is invaluable for emergency situations, while CHIRP compatibility makes programming straightforward for users of any skill level.

The UV-25 should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want practical features without compromises, particularly those planning any mobile or emergency operations where location tracking matters. The RT-880 might only interest someone with very specific use cases already determined, though its lower feature set and score don't justify recommending it to anyone given the UV-25 exists at a better price.

For most amateur radio operators, the Baofeng UV-25 is the obvious choice. It delivers better value, superior specifications, and practical features that make it genuinely useful beyond basic communication.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner needing basic VHF/UHF coverage

    Its higher beginner score and multi-band capability make it easier to start with.

    UV-25
  • Experienced operator needing maximum channel count

    The 1024 channel memory is ideal for operators covering multiple regions.

    RT-880
  • Operator needing GPS and APRS features

    The built-in GPS and APRS support make it perfect for field coordinate sharing.

    UV-25
  • Budget-conscious user needing basic multi-band radio

    It offers superior features and multi-band coverage at a lower price point.

    UV-25
  • Technician needing simple, reliable analog VHF/UHF

    Its focus on analog VHF/UHF and high channel count suits experienced users.

    RT-880

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-25

  • 27% cheaper ($54.39 vs $74.00)
  • 117% more battery (5200 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-25SpecRadtel RT-880
$54.39
Price
$74.00
73
Overall Score
52
+41% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
408g
Weight
5200 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
2.2× difference
Color LCD
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
UV-25 Plus
Model Number
RT-880
5200mAh Li-ion Battery x 1, Type-C Charging Cable x 1, Adapter x 1, Gooseneck ANT x 1, High-Gain ANT x 1, Radio Pouch x 1, Belt Clip x 1, Wrist Strap x 1, Speaker Mic x 1, Headset x 1, UV-25 Plus Radio x 1
Built-In Media
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
UHF VHF 1.25M
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Repeater
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
2" Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Rechargable with USB-C Port, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
5.91"D x 1.97"W x 2.76"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-25PICK

$54.39 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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