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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs TIDRADIO TD-H3

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

This comparison comes down to value proposition. Both radios tie at 54/100 overall, but the TD-H3 wins on pure economics at $30 versus $47. That 37% price difference matters significantly in the budget handheld segment where performance gaps between these categories are already minimal.

The single most important differentiator is the Baofeng's GPS capability. If you need location tracking for emergency situations or outdoor activities, the UV-28 justifies its higher cost. Without GPS, the TD-H3 is purely a communication device with no situational awareness features.

Buy the TD-H3 if you're a casual user prioritizing simplicity and low entry cost for basic local repeater access. Buy the UV-28 if you regularly venture into remote areas where GPS coordinates matter for safety or if you anticipate needing location data in the future.

Neither radio excels, but the TD-H3 represents better value for cost-conscious operators without GPS needs. If you can stretch to the UV-28's price, the GPS feature adds genuine utility that's difficult to replicate with external devices. For most beginners, the TD-H3's affordability wins unless GPS specifically addresses your use case.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
TIDRADIO TD-H3

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • SOTA/POTA field activators needing GPS

    The UV-28's built-in GPS and higher feature set are ideal for field coordination.

    UV-28
  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    The TD-H3 offers basic VHF/UHF functionality at a lower cost for starting out.

    TD-H3
  • Emergency preparedness/ARES/RACES use

    The UV-28 is better suited for emergency deployment due to its expanded features and memory.

    UV-28
  • Simple GMRS/scanner monitoring backup

    The TD-H3's focus on analog VHF/UHF makes it excellent for basic monitoring tasks.

    TD-H3
  • Advanced user needing maximum features

    The UV-28 provides more channels and advanced features for experienced hobbyists.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 199)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose TIDRADIO TD-H3

  • 22% cheaper ($31.99 vs $40.99)
  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecTIDRADIO TD-H3
$40.99
Price
$31.99
77
Overall Score
68
+14% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1000
Memory Channels
199
5.0× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+14% for winner
Color LCD
Display
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
1Pack Full Kits (Black)
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
1Pack Full Kits (Black)
16 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
TD-H3
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 Airband Antenna, 1 x 771 Antenna, 1 x Standard Antenna, 1 x Desktop Charger, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x TIDRADIO TD-H3 Ham Radio, 1 x USB-C Cable (Programming and Charging), Battery, Earpiece
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
VHF/UHF
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Ham Radio Handheld,such as baofeng uv-5r series quangsheng uv-k5 etc.
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
AM/FM Reception, Dual PTT/Dual Watch/Dual Display, One Key Frequency Match, USB-C Programming & Charging, Wireless Radio Replication
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
30days
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

TIDRADIO TD-H3

$31.99 on Amazon

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