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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radioddity GD-88

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Radioddity GD-88 is the clear winner for most users, despite its significantly higher price point.

The single most important differentiator is feature capability. The GD-88 includes DMR and APRS support alongside GPS, making it a substantially more versatile radio for modern amateur operations. The UV-28 offers only basic GPS functionality with a simpler feature set. This gap directly explains the 9-point difference in overall scores.

Budget-conscious operators who only need basic VHF/UHF capabilities and occasional GPS marking should choose the UV-28. Serious amateur radio enthusiasts who want digital mode support and advanced features should choose the GD-88.

The GD-88 delivers better long-term value despite tripling the initial investment. If you plan any progression into DMR networks or APRS operations, buying the cheaper UV-28 forces a future upgrade anyway. The GD-88 provides that capability now and scores higher across the board. Only pick the UV-28 if budget is truly your limiting factor and you can definitively confirm you'll never need digital modes.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Radioddity GD-88

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its low price and high channel count make it an excellent entry point.

    UV-28
  • Technician needing DMR and APRS modes

    The GD-88 offers necessary digital modes and advanced features for serious operation.

    GD-88
  • Emergency communications and ARES use

    The UV-28's simplicity and robust nature are ideal for emergency deployments.

    UV-28
  • Operator needing dual-mode monitoring and features

    It supports multiple modern modes and features that the UV-28 lacks.

    GD-88
  • Portable SOTA/POTA field activations

    Its lightweight design and high channel count are perfect for field use.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 77% cheaper ($40.99 vs $176.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 200)
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-88

  • 36% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • IP54 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadioddity GD-88
$40.99
Price
$176.99
77
Overall Score
67
+15% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1000
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+37% for winner
Color LCD
Display
IP Rating
IP54
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
UHF, VHF
1 Pounds
Item Weight
0.7 Pounds
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
GD 88
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
3000mAh lithium-ion battery, programming cable
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
[Other two-way radios on VHF/UHF bands & accessories with compatible connectors]
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Uhf
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-88

$176.99 on Amazon

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