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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-730

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Radtel RT-730 is the clear winner here. Despite costing eight dollars less, it scores nine points higher overall and offers practical advantages that matter for everyday operation.

The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility. The RT-730's support for this free programming software means you can manage frequencies, settings, and memories on your computer without wrestling with the radio's interface. This alone saves frustrating hours of button-pressing, especially if you need to program multiple channels or switch between different frequency sets.

The Baofeng UV-28 appeals only to users specifically seeking GPS capability for tracking or outdoor navigation, but the missing specifications on transmit power and weight suggest incomplete product information. The RT-730's confirmed 10W output gives you reliable coverage expectations.

Buy the Radtel RT-730 if you want straightforward value, ease of programming, and honest specifications. Buy the Baofeng UV-28 only if GPS functionality is essential to your use case and you're willing to accept incomplete documentation and lower performance marks.

For most operators, the RT-730 represents better bang for buck and eliminates programming headaches entirely.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Radtel RT-730

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner ham radio operator

    The RT-730 offers excellent value and strong CHIRP support for new users.

    RT-730
  • SOTA activators needing GPS and high channel count

    The UV-28's built-in GPS and higher channel count are ideal for field operations.

    UV-28
  • Emergency communications and ARES deployment

    Its robust feature set makes it excellent for coordinated emergency radio deployment.

    UV-28
  • Technician prioritizing reliable output and CHIRP

    The RT-730's focus on reliable TX power and CHIRP makes it a technician's choice.

    RT-730
  • Portable field day backup radio

    The RT-730 provides reliable performance and CHIRP support for field day needs.

    RT-730

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

  • 5% cheaper ($39.00 vs $40.99)
  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadtel RT-730
$40.99
Price
$39.00
77
Overall Score
63
+22% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
1000
Memory Channels
199
5.0× difference
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

$40.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-730

$39.00 on Amazon

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