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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Retevis A3

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here. With a significantly higher overall score of 54 versus 31, this radio outperforms the Retevis A3 across the board. The single most important differentiator is the UV-28's GPS capability, which the A3 lacks entirely. GPS functionality is increasingly valuable for amateur radio operators who need location tracking, emergency response coordination, or field operations documentation.

The UV-28 also costs $33 less than the A3, making it the more economical choice without sacrificing features or performance. Neither radio supports DMR or APRS, and both lack CHIRP compatibility, but the UV-28's GPS advantage combined with its lower price and higher reliability score makes this decision straightforward.

Buy the Baofeng UV-28 if you want reliable performance, GPS functionality, and value for money. Buy the Retevis A3 only if you have a specific reason to prefer it, as the data doesn't support choosing it over the UV-28.

The Baofeng UV-28 is the recommended purchase for most operators seeking an affordable handheld with practical features. It delivers better performance at a lower price point, making it the smarter investment.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Retevis A3

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-28
  • Beginner monitoring NOAA and basic VHF/UHF

    The A3 provides sufficient basic multi-band coverage for initial monitoring needs.

    A3
  • Budget-conscious entry-level operator

    The UV-28 offers more features and channels for a lower entry price point.

    UV-28
  • Emergency communications and ARES deployment

    Its robust feature set and high channel count suit emergency field coordination.

    UV-28
  • New 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

  • 41% cheaper ($40.99 vs $69.99)
  • 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)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRetevis A3
$40.99
Price
$69.99
77
Overall Score
30
2.6× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1000
Memory Channels
999
2200 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+14% for winner
Color LCD
Display
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Green
1
unitCount
1
1 Pounds
Item Weight
1.92 pounds

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

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