RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-730
Our pick
Baofeng UV-28$58.99
The Baofeng UV-28 edges out the Radtel RT-730 for better listed specifications at a competitive price point. Both radios match on core transmit power at 10 watts and support CHIRP programming, with owners reporting identical 4.1/5 satisfaction across different sample sizes. The UV-28's GPS capability is the decisive differentiator, providing location tracking that the RT-730 lacks. The UV-28 scores higher overall because its extra feature delivers more capability for the money, though we lack weight data for the RT-730 so cannot fully evaluate portability comparison.
The UV-28's $4 price premium is justified by GPS functionality, which matters for emergency situations, repeater hunting, or field operations. The RT-730 remains a solid budget option if you need basic VHF/UHF performance and price is paramount, though its feature set is more stripped-down.
Buy the Baofeng UV-28 if you want location tracking and value-added features for minimal extra cost. Choose the Radtel RT-730 only if you need the absolute lowest price and GPS is irrelevant to your use case.
The UV-28 is the better overall choice for most amateur operators.
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-730SOTA activators needing GPS and high channel count
The UV-28's built-in GPS and higher channel count are ideal for field operations.
UV-28Emergency communications and ARES deployment
Its robust feature set makes it excellent for coordinated emergency radio deployment.
UV-28Technician prioritizing reliable output and CHIRP
The RT-730's focus on reliable TX power and CHIRP makes it a technician's choice.
RT-730Portable 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
- 34% cheaper ($39.00 vs $58.99)
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28PICK
$58.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-730
$39.00 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

