RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Retevis A3
Our pick
Baofeng UV-28$58.99
The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner for most buyers. The single most important differentiator is price paired with specifications: the UV-28 costs less than half as much while delivering known TX power of 10W, GPS capability, and CHIRP programming support. The Retevis A3 is lighter and costs more, but we lack its TX power specification, and it omits GPS and CHIRP compatibility entirely.
Owner feedback slightly favors the UV-28, with 4.1 out of 5 stars across 44 reviews versus the A3's 3.6 stars from 31 reviews. This suggests buyers report better experiences with the Baofeng. RadioRanked's overall scores reflect better listed specifications for the money with the UV-28.
Buy the Baofeng UV-28 if you want the best value and need GPS or programmability via CHIRP. Buy the Retevis A3 only if weight savings matter critically and you don't need GPS or computer programming. For the vast majority of amateur radio users, the UV-28 offers more capability at a fraction of the cost.
By use case
Which should you buy?
SOTA/POTA activators needing GPS and range
The UV-28's GPS and superior features make it ideal for field operations.
UV-28Beginner monitoring NOAA and basic VHF/UHF
The A3 provides sufficient basic multi-band coverage for initial monitoring needs.
A3Budget-conscious entry-level operator
The UV-28 offers more features and channels for a lower entry price point.
UV-28Emergency communications and ARES deployment
Its robust feature set and high channel count suit emergency field coordination.
UV-28New licensed user focused on simplicity and basics
The A3's simpler feature set is less overwhelming for brand new licensees.
A3
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 45% cheaper ($58.99 vs $107.99)
- 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- 74g lighter (286g vs 360g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28PICK
$58.99 on AmazonRetevis A3
$107.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

