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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Quansheng UV-K6

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Quansheng UV-K6 is the better value despite nearly identical performance scores. Both radios lack essential features like DMR and APRS, making them basic VHF/UHF transceivers suited only for simple analog communications.

The decisive factor is price. The UV-K6 costs $32 versus the UV-28's $47, representing a 32 percent savings for comparable functionality. The UV-28's GPS capability seems like an advantage until you realize neither radio's overall score reflects modern standards, and GPS alone doesn't justify the premium when both devices score in the low 50s.

Missing specifications (TX power and weight for the UV-28) suggest incomplete testing or documentation, raising questions about the UV-28's reliability. The UV-K6's clearly stated 5W output removes guesswork.

The Baofeng UV-28 appeals only to budget buyers willing to pay slightly more for unconfirmed GPS features. The Quansheng UV-K6 is better suited for anyone seeking basic handheld radio functionality without overpaying.

Neither radio represents best-in-class performance. If you need reliable features and don't have brand loyalty, the UV-K6's savings make it the pragmatic choice, though saving further for a higher-scoring model deserves serious consideration.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Quansheng UV-K6

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner needing simple operation

    Its higher beginner score and simpler feature set make it ideal for starting out.

    UV-K6
  • SOTA/POTA field activators needing GPS

    The built-in GPS and higher channel count are essential for field coordination.

    UV-28
  • Budget-conscious monitoring hobbyist

    It offers excellent value and basic monitoring features at a lower price point.

    UV-K6
  • Advanced user needing more channels

    With 1000 channels, it provides significantly more capacity for advanced operations.

    UV-28
  • Emergency communication prepper

    Its suitability for ARES/RACES deployment and higher channel count is a major plus.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 200)
  • 38% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1600 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K6

  • 23% cheaper ($31.55 vs $40.99)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecQuansheng UV-K6
$40.99
Price
$31.55
77
Overall Score
65
+19% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
Weight
234g
2200 mAh
Battery
1600 mAh
+37% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Dot-matrix LCD
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
VHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
UV-K6
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
UV-K6 , Antenna, Battery , Charger , User manual , Clip
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Battery chargers, External antennas, Carrying accessories, Other two-way radios on UHF and VHF frequencies
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Weather Alert
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

Quansheng UV-K6

$31.55 on Amazon

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