Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-4D DMR

Our pick

Radtel RT-4D DMR$60.00

The Radtel RT-4D edges ahead with slightly better listed specifications for the money, scoring 76 to the UV-28's 75. However, this is essentially a tie that comes down to your priorities and budget.

The most important difference is DMR capability. The RT-4D includes digital mobile radio support while the UV-28 does not. If DMR access matters to you, this alone decides the choice. If analog-only operation suffices, you're comparing radios with similar GPS and CHIRP programmability, though the UV-28 offers double the transmit power at 10W versus 5W.

The UV-28 suits budget-conscious operators who want higher power output and don't need DMR, plus its 360g weight doesn't differ meaningfully from the RT-4D's 198g for most users. The RT-4D is the pick for anyone wanting digital capability, especially if you value lighter weight and portability.

Owners report similar satisfaction with both radios—4.1 and 4.2 stars respectively—based on 44 and 112 Amazon reviews. Buy the UV-28 if analog power matters most and you want to save seventeen dollars. Choose the RT-4D if DMR justifies the cost and you prefer a lighter radio.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner needing basic features

    The Baofeng offers sufficient basic functionality at a lower entry price point.

    UV-28
  • Operator needing advanced digital modes like DMR

    The Radtel supports DMR and Bluetooth, offering superior modern digital communication options.

    RT-4D DMR
  • Portable SOTA/POTA field activators

    Its better portability and feature set make it ideal for extended outdoor operations.

    RT-4D DMR
  • Emergency deployment needing simple reliability

    The Baofeng's reputation for ARES/RACES use makes it a dependable emergency choice.

    UV-28
  • Experienced ham needing versatile analog and digital comms

    The Radtel's ability to handle both analog and DMR modes provides unmatched versatility.

    RT-4D DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 2% cheaper ($58.99 vs $60.00)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-4D DMR

  • 2% more memory channels (1,024 vs 1,000)
  • 59% more battery (3500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • 162g lighter (198g vs 360g)
  • Has DMR digital mode

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadtel RT-4D DMR
$58.99
Price
$60.00
75
Overall Score
76
+1% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
360g
Weight
198g
+82% difference
2200 mAh
Battery
3500 mAh
+59% for winner
Color LCD
Display
LCD
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
RT-4D
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 Rt-4d Radio, 1x 3500mAh Li-ion battery, 1x Desktop charger, 1x USB-C cable, 1x Dual band antenna, 1x belt clip, 1x Eng user manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144-148/420-450MHz
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
RT-4D
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on 144-148/420-450MHz frequency bands, compatible headsets, and external antennas
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Dual Band Analog/Digital , Type C charger, DMR/Analog,, Single Call/Group Call, NOAA, Two-Time Slot,Spectrum, FM Radio
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28

$58.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-4D DMRPICK

$60.00 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons