RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-26 vs Radtel RT-950 PRO
Our pick
Radtel RT-950 PRO$96.00
The Radtel RT-950 PRO is the clear winner for most users, despite the UV-26's higher transmit power.
The single most important differentiator is features versus raw power. The RT-950 PRO includes APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth, which the UV-26 lacks entirely. These are meaningful capabilities for field ops and location sharing. The UV-26 compensates with 10W output versus 4W, but that power advantage alone does not offset the feature gap for most modern applications.
Owner feedback slightly favors the UV-26 at 4.4 stars versus 4.1, though the RT-950 PRO has 371 reviews versus 94, giving a larger sample. We lack price for the UV-26, making direct value comparison impossible. However, at $87, the RT-950 PRO offers known, transparent pricing.
Neither radio has published IP ratings or CHIRP support, and weight data is missing for both.
The UV-26 suits users who prioritize maximum transmit power in a basic radio and don't need digital or location features. The RT-950 PRO is better for anyone wanting GPS, APRS, or Bluetooth connectivity without sacrificing practical range.
Buy the Radtel RT-950 PRO unless you specifically need the extra 6 watts and have no use for its advanced features.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensed operator learning handheld basics
The UV-26 suits a first handheld with a gentler learning curve for local repeater use.
Baofeng UV-26Operators wanting APRS position reporting and GPS
The RT-950 PRO includes built-in APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth that the UV-26 lacks entirely.
Radtel RT-950 PROBuyers needing 1.25m band access
Only the UV-26 covers 1.25m, making it the practical choice for that band.
Baofeng UV-26Emergency kit buyer prioritizing transmit reach
Its 10 watts of transmit power gives the UV-26 more reach than the RT-950 PRO's 4 watts.
Baofeng UV-26Budget-focused buyer wanting maximum features per dollar
The RT-950 PRO offers a stronger value proposition by packing more functions into its price tier.
Radtel RT-950 PRO
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26
- 150% more TX power (10W vs 4W)
- 4% more memory channels (999 vs 960)
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-26
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-950 PROPICK
$96.00 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

