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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Radtel RT-920 is the clear winner here, though the margin is modest. Both radios lack modern features like DMR and APRS, making them basic VHF/UHF handhelds for straightforward communication.

The single most important differentiator is power output. The RT-920's confirmed 8W transmission capability gives it meaningful range advantage over the Baofeng UV-28, whose power rating remains unspecified—a concerning omission that suggests it may be significantly weaker. This practical difference translates to the higher overall score of 61 versus 54.

The UV-28's only potential advantage is its integrated GPS, which could matter if you need position tracking in the field. However, without knowing its actual transmit power or weight specifications, you're buying blind on critical performance metrics.

The Baofeng UV-28 is worth considering only if GPS functionality is essential and you can verify the TX power meets your needs. The Radtel RT-920 should appeal to users prioritizing straightforward, reliable communication with adequate coverage range.

For most amateur radio operators, the RT-920's superior documented specifications and higher score make it the safer choice, despite the modest nine-dollar premium.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Radtel RT-920

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner exploring ham radio

    Its slightly higher beginner score and Bluetooth connectivity make initial use easier.

    RT-920
  • Budget-conscious SOTA/POTA field operator

    The lower price point and GPS feature offer excellent value for field use.

    UV-28
  • Emergency preparedness and ARES/RACES use

    The UV-28's reputation for ruggedness and dedicated emergency features is superior.

    UV-28
  • Operator needing wide-band monitoring and versatility

    The RT-920's focus on wide-band monitoring makes it better for general listening.

    RT-920
  • Advanced user needing deep customization and features

    The RT-920 has a slightly higher overall feature score for advanced tweaking.

    RT-920

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 13% cheaper ($40.99 vs $47.04)
  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • 4% more memory channels (1,000 vs 960)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRadtel RT-920
$40.99
Price
$47.04
77
Overall Score
63
+22% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+25% for winner
1000
Memory Channels
960
+4% for winner
2200 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
Color LCD
Display
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
UHF/VHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
RT-920
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-920 Main unit, 1x 2200mAh 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
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Smartphones, USB-C devices
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
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-920

$47.04 on Amazon

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