RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Radioddity GD-168
Our pick
Radioddity GD-168$139.99
The Baofeng UV-28 is the better choice for most buyers. The single most important differentiator is digital mode support: the GD-168 includes DMR and APRS, while the UV-28 does not. However, the UV-28 costs $45 versus $140 and offers double the transmit power at 10W, plus GPS and Bluetooth connectivity. The UV-28 is also CHIRP compatible for easier programming. Owners report nearly identical satisfaction with both radios (4.1 vs 4.2 out of 5), though the UV-28 has more reviews to draw from. The GD-168 is noticeably lighter at 220g versus 360g.
Buy the UV-28 if you want maximum power and features at the lowest price, or if you need GPS and Bluetooth. Buy the GD-168 if you specifically operate on DMR networks or need APRS for position tracking and messaging, and you can accept half the transmit power and higher cost. For general analog FM use without digital mode requirements, the UV-28 offers significantly better value and more capability per dollar.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee on a tight budget
It costs considerably less and its beginner-friendly controls make it easy to learn on right away.
UV-28SOTA or POTA portable activator
Its 10W transmit power and built-in GPS suit field operations where reaching distant stations matters.
UV-28ARES or RACES emergency volunteer
Its 10W output, large 1000-channel memory, and low cost make it practical to equip several deployable operators.
UV-28Operator moving into DMR digital voice
It supports DMR and offers a higher feature score with 4000 memory channels for contact storage.
Radioddity GD-168Ham who wants APRS and a color screen
It includes APRS and a color display, features the Baofeng model does not offer.
Radioddity GD-168Hiker wanting a lighter everyday handheld
At 220g it is noticeably lighter than the 360g Baofeng, making it easier to carry all day.
Radioddity GD-168
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 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)
- 140g lighter (220g vs 360g)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28
Search on AmazonRadioddity GD-168PICK
$139.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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