RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Baofeng UV-82HP
The UV-82HP is the better choice for most users.
The single most important differentiator is weight and portability. The UV-82HP weighs 214g versus the UV-28's 360g, making it significantly more comfortable for extended carry and use. The UV-28 offers higher TX power (10W vs 7W), GPS, and Bluetooth, but these features don't overcome the portability gap for typical amateur radio use.
Owners reporting on the UV-82HP is far more meaningful here: 4820 Amazon reviews at 4.4/5 versus just 44 reviews at 4.1/5 for the UV-28. That sample size tells you the UV-82HP has real-world validation from thousands of users, while the UV-28 has limited owner feedback. Both radios support CHIRP programming and lack published IP ratings, so weather resistance remains unknown for each.
The UV-28 makes sense only if you specifically need GPS capability, Bluetooth connectivity, or maximum power output for your application. Buy the UV-82HP if you want a proven handheld radio with excellent owner feedback, lighter weight, and reasonable power for most amateur radio activities. The five-dollar price difference is negligible compared to the advantages the UV-82HP delivers.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee making local VHF and UHF contacts
Its larger memory bank and beginner-friendly setup make it the easier starting point for new operators.
UV-28Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest purchase cost
It costs less than the alternative while still offering VHF, UHF, and 10W transmit power.
UV-28Hiker wanting a light secondary radio for trails
At 214 grams versus 360 grams, it adds far less weight to a daypack.
UV-82HPPortable SOTA or POTA activator in the field
Its 10 watt output and GPS support suit field coordination and summit-to-base contacts.
UV-28ARES or RACES volunteer for emergency deployment
Higher transmit power and 1000 memory channels suit organized emergency net operations.
UV-28Operator needing a compact everyday carry radio
Its lower weight makes it easier to carry on a belt all day.
UV-82HP
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 43% more TX power (10W vs 7W)
- 8x more memory channels (1,000 vs 128)
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP
- 146g lighter (214g vs 360g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
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