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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-26 vs Baofeng UV-28

The UV-28 is the clear winner here, though we lack complete specifications for the UV-26 to make a fully informed comparison.

Both radios transmit at 10W, so power output is a draw. The key differentiator is the UV-28's GPS and Bluetooth connectivity, which the UV-26 lacks entirely. The UV-28 also supports CHIRP programming, making configuration easier, while we have no data on the UV-26's compatibility. The UV-28 carries a known price of $45 and comes with documented weight specs, whereas the UV-26 lacks both price and weight information.

Owner ratings tell us the UV-26 owners report favorable experiences (4.4/5 from 94 reviews), while the UV-28 owners are somewhat less enthusiastic (4.1/5 from 44 reviews), though both scores reflect general satisfaction.

The UV-26 should appeal to users seeking a basic, straightforward radio without modern features, if its missing specs and lower feature set meet their needs. The UV-28 is better for anyone wanting built-in GPS, wireless connectivity, and CHIRP support at an accessible price point.

Buy the UV-28 unless you specifically need a simpler radio and can confirm the UV-26 meets your requirements.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee wanting low cost

    It costs less and scores higher on beginner-friendliness, making it the easier entry point.

    UV-28
  • Local repeater user needing 1.25m band access

    It covers the 1.25m band in addition to VHF and UHF, which the UV-28 lacks.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • SOTA or POTA activator logging summits

    GPS and Bluetooth support make it better suited to field logging and coordination on summits.

    UV-28
  • ARES or RACES emergency deployment team member

    Its higher feature set and 1000-channel memory suit organized emergency communications and net coordination.

    UV-28
  • Operator prioritizing pocket-friendly compact size

    It suits buyers who want a smaller radio and do not need GPS or Bluetooth.

    Baofeng UV-26

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26

  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-26SpecBaofeng UV-28
49
Overall Score
64
+30% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
999
Memory Channels
1000
—
Weight
360g
2500 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+14% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
Color
Black
VHF/1.25M/UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
UV26
Model Number
UV-28 Plus
①1X UV26 Ham Radio, ②1X 6.1" antenna, ③1X 15.12" 771 antenna, ④1X 10.63" 771 Air-band antenna, ⑤1X 2500mAh Battery, ⑥1X Type-C charger with cable, ⑦1X earpiece with mic, ⑧1X belt, ⑨1X hand strap, ⑩1X charging base station, 10WHTC, 2500mAh Battery, 10WHTC Charger, USB Cable
Built-In Media
1 x Headset, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Wrist Strap, 1 x High-Gain ANT, 1 x Speaker Mic, 1 x UV-28 PLUS Ham Radio, 2 x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Desktop Charger with Adapter
UV26
Mfr Part Number
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
BAOFENG UV26 Ham Radios, other devices on the same frequency bands and channels, CHIRP, CPS, TIDRADIO wireless programmer, earpiece, belt, hand strap, charging base station
Compatible Devices
Repeater, Smartphone
771 Antenna, Air-band antenna, Superior grip, Enhanced design, Wider frequency band, 10W power, USB C charging, 1.77inch colour screen, Frequency copy
Additional Features
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-26

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Baofeng UV-28PICK

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