RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-26 vs Radtel RT-470X
Our pick
Baofeng UV-26$28.21
The UV-26 edges out the RT-470X, primarily on price and owner feedback. Both radios omit several key specs: the UV-26's weight and the RT-470X's transmit power are not listed here, so we cannot compare them fully. The UV-26 costs two dollars less and owners report a 4.4 out of 5 rating across 94 Amazon reviews, compared to the RT-470X's 4.1 out of 5 across 256 reviews. The RT-470X does list an IP54 rating, indicating weather resistance, while we have no rating for the UV-26. Both support CHIRP programming and neither offers DMR, APRS, or GPS.
The single most important differentiator is the owner rating: buyers of the UV-26 report higher satisfaction, though the RT-470X's larger review sample provides broader feedback. The UV-26 suits operators prioritizing cost and reported owner experience on a budget. The RT-470X appeals to those who need documented weather sealing and want feedback from a larger buyer pool.
Choose the UV-26 for the best combination of price and reported owner satisfaction.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New amateur radio licensee starting out
It offers more channels and better overall coverage for diverse local operations.
Baofeng UV-26Budget-conscious prepper needing local comms
Its higher power output and more channels provide better emergency reliability.
Baofeng UV-26Casual local simplex operation enthusiast
The slightly better portability and multi-band receiver make it ideal for local use.
RT-470XBeginner needing basic VHF/UHF coverage
The UV-26's superior coverage options suit a beginner exploring multiple bands.
Baofeng UV-26Hobbyist needing a multi-band receiver
The RT-470X's specific focus on multi-band reception is its key advantage.
RT-470X
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26
- 6% cheaper ($28.21 vs $29.99)
- 4x more memory channels (999 vs 256)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X
- 12% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- IP54 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-26PICK
$28.21 on AmazonRadtel RT-470X
$29.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads