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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-730

Our pick

Radtel RT-730$39.00

The UV-28 is the better choice for most buyers. Both radios deliver identical transmit power and CHIRP support, but the UV-28 adds GPS and Bluetooth connectivity while weighing only slightly more at 360g. The RT-730's weight is unknown, preventing a fair comparison on portability. Owners report the same 4.1 out of 5 stars for both, though the RT-730's rating draws from 176 reviews versus the UV-28's 44, providing a larger sample of user experience. The UV-28 costs six dollars more, a minor premium for gaining practical features that matter in the field.

The single most important differentiator is the UV-28's GPS and Bluetooth capabilities, which the RT-730 lacks entirely. These features justify the price difference for users who value navigation or smartphone integration.

The UV-28 suits operators who want modern conveniences and connectivity in a capable handheld. The RT-730 makes sense only if you need a no-frills radio at the lowest possible price and prefer its design.

Buy the Baofeng UV-28. The extra features and proven owner satisfaction make it worth the modest cost difference.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee on a tight budget

    Costs less and offers the simpler feature set that suits a first handheld well.

    RT-730
  • Operator wanting GPS and Bluetooth features

    Includes GPS and Bluetooth, which the other radio lacks, for operators wanting extra features.

    UV-28
  • SOTA or POTA summit activator

    Ten watts, GPS, and a large memory bank suit summits and field coordination.

    UV-28
  • Field day backup radio buyer

    Lighter overall handling and a simple layout make it a practical backup for field day.

    RT-730
  • ARES or RACES emergency volunteer

    Larger memory and GPS support make it the stronger choice for ARES and RACES deployment.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 199)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730

  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadtel RT-730
—
Price
$39.00
64
Overall Score
63
+2% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
1000
Memory Channels
199
5.0× difference
360g
Weight
—
2200 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+14% for winner
Color LCD
Display
LCD
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
RT-730
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
1 RT-730 Ham Radio, 1xProgramming Cable,1x 2500mAh Li-ion Battery Pack, 1x Standard Long Antenna, 1x Desktop charger, 1x belt clip, 1x user manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144-148MHZ / 420-450MHZ
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
RT-730
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on the same frequency band, compatible accessories like headsets, earpieces, or external antennas, and computers for programming.
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
16-630Mhz Receiver, Long Range, High quality resolution LCD, Type C charging, Full band radio am/fm/air/cb/ham/noaa/short wave receiver
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

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Radtel RT-730

$39.00 on Amazon

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