The Baofeng UV-7B is the clear winner here. Despite being nearly half the price at $25 versus $47, it outscores the UV-28 significantly with a 71/100 versus 54/100 rating. The most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility: the UV-7B supports this essential programming software, while the UV-28 does not. This matters greatly because CHIRP allows you to program frequencies and settings on your computer, which is far more convenient and less error-prone than manual entry on the radio's keypad.
The GPS feature on the UV-28 sounds appealing but doesn't justify its higher price and lower overall score. The UV-7B should appeal to anyone starting in amateur radio or wanting a reliable, budget-friendly handheld with proper computer programmability. The UV-28 might only interest someone with a specific need for built-in GPS, but the lower score suggests implementation quality issues may be present.
Buy the UV-7B. The price advantage combined with superior ratings and CHIRP support makes it the more practical choice for virtually any amateur operator. Save your money and get the better radio.
By use case
Absolute beginner or first-time licensee
Its extremely low price and high beginner score make it ideal for learning the basics.
SOTA activators or field coordination
The inclusion of GPS and its focus on field use makes it superior for portable operations.
Budget-conscious backup or secondary HT
It offers excellent value and necessary features like Bluetooth for minimal cost.
Emergency preparedness or ARES/RACES use
The UV-28's specific focus on emergency deployment makes it the more robust choice.
Advanced user needing basic functionality
The UV-28's higher feature score suggests more operational capability for advanced use.
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28
$46.99 on AmazonBaofeng UV-7BPICK
$26.99 on Amazon