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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-26 vs Retevis A3

Our pick

Retevis A3$109.99

The Baofeng UV-26 is the clear winner here based on available data. Both radios share identical feature sets: no digital modes, no GPS, no Bluetooth, and neither supports CHIRP programming. The single most important differentiator is owner satisfaction. The UV-26 reports a 4.4 out of 5 rating from 94 Amazon reviews, while the Retevis A3 scores 3.6 out of 5 from only 31 reviews. That's a meaningful gap in what actual buyers report about their experience with each radio.

The UV-26 also specifies 10 watts of transmit power, a useful detail for range planning. We lack the A3's TX power figure, so we cannot compare them on that front. The A3's price of $110 is stated, while the UV-26's cost is unknown, making direct value assessment difficult.

The Baofeng UV-26 should appeal to buyers seeking documented owner satisfaction and confirmed power output. The Retevis A3 might interest budget-conscious shoppers if price proves significantly lower once the UV-26's cost emerges, though current owner feedback favors the Baofeng.

Choose the UV-26 unless a substantial price advantage makes the A3 compelling.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensed operator

    Its stronger beginner rating and 10 watt output make it a practical first handheld.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Budget-conscious emergency preparedness buyer

    It earns a stronger value rating and offers 10 watts for emergency VHF and UHF reach.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Operators wanting 1.25 meter coverage

    The UV-26 covers 1.25 meters, which the A3 does not offer, alongside VHF and UHF.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Experimenters wanting 6 meter band access

    The A3 includes 6 meter coverage that the UV-26 lacks, suiting band-hopping experimenters.

    A3

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26

  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis A3

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-26SpecRetevis A3
—
Price
$109.99
49
Overall Score
27
+82% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
999
Memory Channels
999
—
Weight
286g
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
color
Green
2
unitCount
1

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