RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Baofeng UV-5R Mini
The UV-5R Mini is the clear winner for most buyers. Despite costing $14 less, it delivers a higher overall score of 68 versus 54, and critically, it supports CHIRP programming while the UV-28 does not. This single differentiator matters enormously because CHIRP compatibility means easier frequency management, community support, and future-proofing without proprietary software headaches.
The UV-28's GPS capability is its only meaningful advantage, but insufficient to overcome the UV-5R Mini's superior score, lower price, and programming flexibility. The UV-28's unknown transmit power and weight specifications further undermine confidence in that model.
The UV-5R Mini is ideal for budget-conscious operators who value simplicity and don't need GPS navigation in their handheld. The UV-28 makes sense only for those specifically requiring integrated GPS and willing to accept programming limitations and higher cost.
Buy the UV-5R Mini. It's cheaper, better reviewed, and the CHIRP support removes a significant friction point that plagues many budget radios. Unless GPS is absolutely essential to your operations, the extra $14 saved plus the programming advantages make this the smarter choice.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning on a budget
Costs less and its simpler menu suits a new licensee without advanced features.
UV-5R Mini Dual-bandBudget-constrained backup communication buyer
Lower purchase cost and light 200g weight make it a sensible backup radio.
UV-5R Mini Dual-bandSummits on the air and field activators
The 10W transmitter and GPS features help portable operators coordinate and log summit activity.
UV-28Emergency deployment with ARES or RACES groups
Higher 10W output and 1000 channel memory cover more net frequencies than the compact alternative.
UV-28Local repeater user wanting an extra handheld
At 200g with a 2W transmitter, it works as a lighter secondary unit for local repeaters.
UV-5R Mini Dual-bandOperators wanting feature-rich monitoring and customization
Bluetooth, GPS, and CHIRP support give it a stronger feature set for customization and monitoring.
UV-28
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 400% more TX power (10W vs 2W)
- 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Mini
- 160g lighter (200g vs 360g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
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