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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-26 vs Quansheng TK11

Our pick

Quansheng TK11$96.99

The UV-26 edges out the TK11, though neither radio is exceptional by RadioRanked's metrics. The UV-26 scores 49 versus 39 largely because of its higher owner rating: 4.4 out of 5 from 94 reviews compared to the TK11's 4.2 from just 15. That rating difference reflects what actual owners report, not build quality we cannot assess.

The single most important differentiator is the UV-26's documented 10-watt transmit power against the TK11's unknown figure. Without knowing the TK11's output, you cannot compare their real-world range. The TK11 offers CHIRP programming support, which the UV-26 lacks, but that is a convenience feature for users with computers.

The UV-26 makes sense if you want the stronger owner consensus and confirmed power output. The TK11 appeals to buyers who need CHIRP compatibility or are drawn to its $97 price, assuming that matters given we lack the UV-26's price.

Buy the UV-26 for more owner confidence and verified specs. Choose the TK11 if CHIRP programming is essential to your workflow. The UV-26 remains the safer pick given incomplete data on its competitor.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee wanting simple controls

    It earns a higher beginner rating and suits someone learning basic simplex operation without extra complexity.

    TK11
  • Budget-conscious emergency preparedness buyer

    Offers a stronger value rating and 10W output for reaching repeaters during emergency use.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Licensed operators needing 1.25m band coverage

    Only this radio covers the 1.25m band, with 10W transmit power and a higher features rating.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Family loaner for casual local chats

    Its simpler setup and beginner-friendly controls suit occasional users who want minimal configuration.

    TK11
  • Portable operators activating parks and summits

    Higher 10W output and a higher features rating give better reach for portable activations.

    Baofeng UV-26

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26

  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 20% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-26SpecQuansheng TK11
—
Price
$96.99
49
Overall Score
39
+25% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
999
Memory Channels
999
—
Weight
284g
2500 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+20% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
Color
Black
UV26
Model Number
UV-K5
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
Handheld Radio
UV26
Mfr Part Number
Uni-TK11-8
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
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
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable
Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

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Baofeng UV-26PICK

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Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

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