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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs KSUN HF123D

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$58.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here. It offers significantly better specified features for less money, including 10W transmit power and GPS capability, while the KSUN HF123D lacks published transmit power and GPS specifications entirely. The UV-28 also supports CHIRP programming, making field adjustments easier.

The single most important differentiator is the transmit power and feature set. The UV-28 delivers known 10W output plus GPS; we cannot evaluate the KSUN's power without manufacturer data.

The Baofeng UV-28 should appeal to users seeking a budget dual-band radio with GPS for location tracking and solid specified performance. The KSUN HF123D might interest buyers specifically seeking an HF-capable handheld, though its incomplete specifications make confident evaluation impossible.

RadioRanked's composite scoring reflects that the UV-28 delivers better listed specs per dollar, supported by stronger owner feedback from a larger review sample. The UV-28's 4.1 rating across 44 reviews versus the KSUN's 3.4 across 13 reviews shows what buyers are reporting. Unless you specifically need HF capabilities and are willing to accept unknown performance characteristics, the UV-28 represents better value and clearer capability.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious SOTA/POTA field use

    The UV-28 offers superior features and GPS for outdoor activities at a low cost.

    UV-28
  • Absolute beginner learning basic VHF operation

    This radio is perfect for new licensees focusing only on basic local repeater skills.

    HF123D
  • Emergency preparedness and ARES deployment

    Its high channel count and robust features make it ideal for emergency communications.

    UV-28
  • Testing ham radio interest before buying

    The limited functionality helps new hobbyists test their interest without overspending.

    HF123D
  • Advanced user needing digital modes (DMR)

    While not ideal, the UV-28's feature set is better suited for modern digital operation than the KSUN.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 4% more memory channels (1,000 vs 960)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D

  • 5% cheaper ($55.80 vs $58.99)
  • 82% more battery (4000 mAh vs 2200 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecKSUN HF123D
$58.99
Price
$55.80
75
Overall Score
31
2.4× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
1000
Memory Channels
960
+4% for winner
360g
Weight
—
2200 mAh
Battery
4000 mAh
+82% for winner
Color LCD
Display
—
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
KSUN-HF123D
1 x Headset, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Wrist Strap, 1 x High-Gain ANT, 1 x Speaker Mic, 1 x UV-28 PLUS Ham Radio, 2 x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Desktop Charger with Adapter
Built-In Media
Antenna
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
CB, HF, SSB, AM
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios (CB, HF, SSB, AM frequencies), Headsets, Earpieces
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Noise Reduction
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$58.99 on Amazon

KSUN HF123D

$55.80 on Amazon

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