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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here. Despite both radios lacking DMR, APRS, and CHIRP support, the UV-28 offers significantly better value and performance. It scores 10 points higher overall while costing less than a third of the GD-168's price.

The single most important differentiator is value for money. You're paying nearly three times as much for the Radioddity while getting an inferior radio. The UV-28's GPS capability adds practical utility that the GD-168 completely lacks, making it more versatile for field operations and emergency situations.

The UV-28 suits budget-conscious operators and newcomers who want a functional handheld without breaking the bank. The GD-168 is difficult to recommend given its poor score and premium price point without corresponding advantages.

For most amateur radio users, the Baofeng UV-28 is the logical choice. The GD-168's only potential appeal is if you have specific compatibility requirements with existing equipment, but the data doesn't support that as a significant factor. Save your money and go with the UV-28.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner needing basic functionality

    The UV-28 offers excellent features and GPS for a significantly lower entry price.

    UV-28
  • Technician needing high channel capacity for field use

    Its 4000 channel memory provides superior capacity for extensive monitoring and logging.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Emergency preparedness or ARES/RACES deployment

    The UV-28 is specifically recommended for emergency deployment and field coordination.

    UV-28
  • New operator exploring basic analog VHF/UHF modes

    The GD-168 is ideal for new users focusing purely on reliable analog operation.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • SOTA activators needing GPS and portability

    The UV-28 includes GPS and is best suited for portable SOTA activities.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 71% cheaper ($40.99 vs $139.99)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,000)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadioddity GD-168
$40.99
Price
$139.99
77
Overall Score
71
+9% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
4000
4.0× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
+22% for winner
Color LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
16 Ohms
Impedance
16 Ohms
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
1 Pounds
Item Weight
1.6 Pounds
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
GD-168
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
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x 2600mAh Battery, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Adaptor, 1 x Desktop Charger Base, 1 x Type-C Cable (for programming & charging), 1 x GD-168 DMR Radio, 1 x Standard ANT, 1 x 15’’ Long ANT
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
UHF, VHF
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
QYWRDGDYLB11
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
18 month warranty
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-168

$139.99 on Amazon

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