RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-493
Our pick
Radtel RT-493$32.99
The Baofeng UV-28 offers better listed specifications for the money, earning a RadioRanked score of 75 versus the Radtel RT-493's 59. Both radios deliver identical 10W transmit power, but the UV-28 includes GPS positioning while the RT-493 lacks this feature. The UV-28 also supports CHIRP programming, providing more flexibility for frequency management. The RT-493 does win on weight, coming in 80 grams lighter, though at 280g versus 360g neither qualifies as particularly portable by modern standards.
The single most important differentiator is the GPS capability on the UV-28, which adds genuine utility for emergency and field operations without significantly raising cost.
The UV-28 is the better choice for operators who value navigation features and programming flexibility and don't mind the slightly heavier form factor. The RT-493 appeals strictly to budget-conscious buyers seeking the absolute lowest entry price, though both radios show identical owner satisfaction at 4.1 stars. We recommend the Baofeng UV-28 for most users, as the extra ten dollars captures meaningful features that justify RadioRanked's notably higher composite score.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest entry cost
Costs less than the alternative while still covering UHF analog simplex and outdoor use.
RT-493SOTA or POTA activator needing VHF and UHF
Dual-band coverage with GPS and a higher feature score suits summit-to-summit coordination and field logging.
UV-28Simplex repeater link and GMRS field operator
IP67 weatherproofing and lower weight suit outdoor use on UHF simplex and business frequencies.
RT-493Emergency communications group needing VHF and UHF
Dual-band operation with 1000 memory channels and GPS supports ARES or RACES deployment and net coordination.
UV-28Weight-sensitive hiker wanting a compact carry
Lighter at 280 grams and sealed to IP67 makes it the easier pack-along choice.
RT-493Beginner wanting Bluetooth and GPS features
Bluetooth, GPS, and CHIRP programming support give a beginner more room to grow.
UV-28
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 199)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-493
- 27% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- 80g lighter (280g vs 360g)
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28PICK
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-493
$32.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads