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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here. Both radios share similar limitations, but the UV-28 edges ahead with a lower price point, built-in GPS functionality, and a marginally higher overall score despite comparable feature sets.

The single most important differentiator is the GPS capability. The UV-28 includes GPS while the RT-880 does not, making it more versatile for field operations, emergency response, or location tracking scenarios. This feature justifies the $27 price difference alone.

The Baofeng UV-28 suits budget-conscious operators who want basic functionality with location awareness and don't require advanced digital modes. The Radtel RT-880 appeals to users seeking a slightly more robust build, though its advantage here is unclear given the missing GPS and higher cost.

For most amateur radio newcomers, the Baofeng UV-28 delivers better value. However, both radios score in the low-to-mid range, suggesting neither excels in reliability or feature richness. If budget allows, consider looking at higher-rated alternatives in the $100+ range for more robust performance and feature parity with modern standards.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner needing basic functionality

    The UV-28 offers more features and GPS for a lower entry cost.

    UV-28
  • Experienced operator needing high channel capacity

    The RT-880's slightly higher channel count suits advanced multi-band users.

    RT-880
  • SOTA/POTA activators needing field coordination

    The UV-28's dedicated features and GPS make it ideal for field operations.

    UV-28
  • Operator focused purely on analog VHF/UHF operation

    The RT-880 is specialized for analog bands, which is its primary strength.

    RT-880
  • Emergency communications and ARES/RACES use

    The UV-28's listed best-for use case matches emergency deployment needs.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 45% cheaper ($40.99 vs $74.00)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 2% more memory channels (1,024 vs 1,000)
  • 9% more battery (2400 mAh vs 2200 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadtel RT-880
$40.99
Price
$74.00
77
Overall Score
52
+47% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1000
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
2200 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+9% for winner
Color LCD
Display
TFT Color
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
16 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
RT-880
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-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
Programming Cable
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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