Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here, though the margin is razor-thin. Both radios score virtually identically on performance metrics, but the UV-28 costs less than 40 percent of the RT95's price while maintaining a slightly higher overall score. The single most important differentiator is value for money. At $47, you're getting comparable core functionality to a radio costing nearly three times as much, and the UV-28 includes GPS capability that the RT95 lacks entirely.

The Baofeng UV-28 should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want basic dual-band handheld capability without breaking the bank. The Retevis RT95 makes sense only if CHIRP programming support is essential to your workflow and you can justify the premium price for that convenience.

For most amateur radio operators, particularly those new to the hobby or building a budget-conscious repeater kit, the UV-28 delivers better value proposition. However, verify that unknown TX power rating before purchasing, as this missing specification is a notable gap in the comparison data that could affect your decision.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Retevis RT95

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Ultra-budget entry-level operator

    The UV-28 offers excellent features and monitoring for the lowest possible price.

    UV-28
  • New operator needing learning features

    The RT95's CHIRP support and higher beginner score make it ideal for learning modes.

    Retevis RT95
  • Portable SOTA/POTA field activators

    The UV-28's strong axes in field coordination and GPS make it perfect for outdoor use.

    UV-28
  • Home base station experimentation

    The RT95 is better suited for home setups due to its higher memory and CHIRP capability.

    Retevis RT95
  • Emergency/ARES/RACES deployment

    The UV-28 is specifically listed for ARES/RACES, making it a reliable choice for emergency use.

    UV-28
  • Operator needing advanced digital modes

    The RT95's inclusion of CHIRP gives it superior capability for modern digital modes.

    Retevis RT95

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 71% cheaper ($40.99 vs $139.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 200)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecRetevis RT95
$40.99
Price
$139.99
77
Overall Score
49
+56% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1000
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
Color LCD
Display
TFT Color
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
11
Black
Color
Black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
Dual band
1 Pounds
Item Weight
645 Grams
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
RT95
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
1 x RT95 Mobile radio, 1 x Power cable, 1 x Handheld mic, 1 x One pack of screw and accessories, 1 x User’s manual, 1 x Magnet Mount Antenna
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
FA9129A-J9129A-C9058A
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Vehicle power supplies, microphones, external antennas, other two-way radios on the same frequency band
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Dual Band, Dual Band Mobile Transceiver; Mobile Two Way Radio;Mobile Radio for RV Offroad 4x4, Emergency Alarm
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

Retevis RT95

$139.99 on Amazon

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons