Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng 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-26
  • Operators 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 PRO
  • Buyers needing 1.25m band access

    Only the UV-26 covers 1.25m, making it the practical choice for that band.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Emergency 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-26
  • Budget-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

Baofeng UV-26SpecRadtel RT-950 PRO
—
Price
$96.00
49
Overall Score
76
+56% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
4.00W
2.5× difference
999
Memory Channels
960
+4% for winner
2500 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+14% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
color
Black
2
unitCount
1
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
Color
Black
VHF/1.25M/UHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
UV26
Model Number
RT-950 PRO
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
1x RT-950 PRO Main unit, 1x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
UV26
Mfr Part Number
Black
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
Smartphones, Desktops
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
27MHz TX/RX at FM Modulation with power 3-4W,Shortwave ML/LW/SW/USB/LSB/CW Reception, Bluetooth App Programming,High Output Power,GPS/APRS Position Sending, Channel Zone Function,Full-Color Display,PC Programming, Integrated Spectrum Analyzer,Wireless Frequency Copy,NOAA Weather Channel Support
Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-26

Search on Amazon

Radtel RT-950 PROPICK

$96.00 on Amazon

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons