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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-470X

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$39.99

The Radtel RT-470X is the clear winner despite its lower price point. It delivers better overall value with a significantly higher performance score of 65 versus the UV-28's 54, while costing $21 less.

The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility. The RT-470X's support for CHIRP programming software makes frequency management substantially easier and more efficient for operators who work with multiple channels or frequencies. This practical advantage combined with its superior score makes it the objectively better choice for most users.

The UV-28 might appeal to operators who specifically need GPS functionality for location tracking or emergency situations where that feature justifies the premium price and lower overall performance rating. The RT-470X suits budget-conscious operators who prioritize programming flexibility and don't require GPS capability.

For most amateur radio enthusiasts, the Radtel RT-470X is the recommended purchase. It offers better performance metrics, costs less, and includes CHIRP support which solves real-world usability challenges. Only choose the UV-28 if GPS is a non-negotiable requirement for your specific application.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Radtel RT-470X

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner needing easy setup and high features

    Its high beginner score and CHIRP support make initial setup straightforward.

    RT-470X
  • SOTA/POTA field activators needing GPS and channels

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

    UV-28
  • Budget-conscious casual simplex operator

    It offers excellent value and multi-band receiving capabilities at a lower price point.

    RT-470X
  • Emergency preparedness and ARES deployment

    Its established use in emergency services makes it reliable for disaster scenarios.

    UV-28
  • Advanced user needing deep frequency customization

    The inclusion of CHIRP allows for advanced frequency and mode programming.

    RT-470X

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 4x more memory channels (1,000 vs 256)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X

  • 25% cheaper ($29.99 vs $39.99)
  • 27% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • IP54 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadtel RT-470X
$39.99
Price
$29.99
77
Overall Score
66
+16% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1000
Memory Channels
256
3.8× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
2800 mAh
+27% for winner
Color LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
IP Rating
IP54
Authorized
FCC Authorization
Not Found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
16 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
FM/AM
1 Pounds
Item Weight
448 Grams
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
RT-470X
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
1x Radtel RT-470X Ham Radio,1x 2800mAh Type-C Battery, 1x 7.87-inch Dual Band 145/435 Antenna, 1x 39-inch USB-C Charger Cable, 1x Belt Clip with Metal Piece, 1x English User Manual,1x AC Power Adapter with USB Port (FCC ID: 2AZSA-RT470X)
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144-148/420-450Mhz
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
RT-470X
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
K-connector
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year Warranty
Bluetooth, GPS
Connectivity Protocol
K-connector

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$39.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-470X

$29.99 on Amazon

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