RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Baofeng 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.
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
- 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
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28PICK
$40.99 on AmazonRetevis A3
$69.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

