RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-25 vs Retevis A3
Our pick
Retevis A3$109.99
The UV-25 is the clear winner for most users.
The most important differentiator is the TX power specification. The UV-25 delivers 10W, while the A3's transmit power is unlisted. This missing data leaves the A3 at a disadvantage since power output is fundamental to radio capability. The UV-25 also includes GPS, CHIRP support, and a higher owner rating of 4.3/5 from 89 reviews versus the A3's 3.6/5 from 31 reviews. Owners report more satisfaction with the UV-25 across a larger sample. The A3 is lighter at 286g versus 408g, but this modest weight difference rarely justifies sacrificing power and features.
The UV-25 should be your choice if you need confirmed TX power, GPS capability, and CHIRP programmability with stronger owner feedback. The A3 might appeal only to weight-conscious users who need a bare-bones radio and don't mind the unknown TX power specification, though the lower owner rating raises questions.
Buy the UV-25. It has better specifications where we have data, works with CHIRP, includes GPS, costs less (though the A3's exact price is known), and owners report notably better satisfaction. The A3's advantages don't outweigh these gaps.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
Costs less and weighs 286g, making it a sensible starting point for a new licensee.
A3Lightweight daily carry or hiking
At 286g versus 408g, the Retevis A3 is the easier radio to carry all day.
A3Operators needing higher transmit power
The 10W transmitter gives the UV-25 more reach for distant repeater and simplex contacts.
UV-25NOAA weather and repeater monitoring
The Retevis A3 is built for NOAA monitoring and repeater use without extra features to learn.
A3Technician growing into intermediate use
Multi-band coverage, CHIRP programming, and 999 channels leave room to grow beyond basic use.
UV-25
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-25
- 108% more battery (5200 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 122g lighter (286g vs 408g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-25PICK
Check on AmazonRetevis A3
$109.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

