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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-25 vs Radtel RT-880G

Our pick

Baofeng UV-25$54.39

The Baofeng UV-25 is the clear winner here. Despite the Radtel RT-880G's additional features, the UV-25 delivers better overall performance at a significantly lower price point.

The single most important differentiator is value. The UV-25 costs $50 versus $95 while scoring 10 points higher overall and offering confirmed 10W transmission power. CHIRP compatibility is another advantage for the UV-25, enabling easier programming compared to the RT-880G's proprietary software limitations.

The Radtel RT-880G's APRS capability is its main selling point, but this doesn't justify the premium price when both radios share GPS functionality. The unknown transmit power specification for the RT-880G raises additional concerns about its actual capabilities.

Buy the UV-25 if you want reliable performance, easy programming, and maximum value for budget-conscious operators. Buy the RT-880G only if APRS functionality is essential for your specific operations and you're willing to pay the premium.

For most amateur radio users, the Baofeng UV-25 is the smarter purchase. Its combination of lower cost, documented specifications, and higher review score makes it the recommended choice unless APRS is a critical requirement.

Winner
Baofeng UV-25
Runner-up
Radtel RT-880G

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Technician moving to intermediate field use

    Its higher TX power and feature set make it a better step up for advanced operations.

    UV-25
  • Budget-conscious SOTA activators and field groups

    It offers necessary multi-mode versatility and APRS features at a lower cost.

    RT-880G
  • Operators needing robust backup for emergency comms

    The superior general features and higher power output provide better reliability.

    UV-25
  • New hobbyist needing basic multi-band coverage

    Its beginner-friendly focus and specialized features suit a newcomer's needs.

    RT-880G
  • Advanced users needing maximum channel capacity

    The 1024 channel memory provides more room for complex, dedicated operation plans.

    RT-880G

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-25

  • 35% cheaper ($54.39 vs $83.16)
  • 117% more battery (5200 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G

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

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-25SpecRadtel RT-880G
$54.39
Price
$83.16
76
Overall Score
72
+5% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
5200 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
2.2× difference
Color LCD
Display
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-880G
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-880G 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
Radtel two-way radios, devices on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies, compatible external antennas
2" Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Rechargable with USB-C Port, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
GPS/APRS, AM FM SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater
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-880G

$83.16 on Amazon

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