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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs TYT MD-UV390

Our pick

TYT MD-UV390$120.99

The UV-28 is the better value for most users. The single most important differentiator is price paired with practical features: the UV-28 costs half as much while delivering double the transmit power, GPS, Bluetooth, and CHIRP compatibility. The TYT offers DMR digital mode capability and IP67 weather sealing, which matter for specific use cases, but comes at nearly double the price with half the TX power and no programmability via CHIRP.

Owners report similarly positive experiences with both radios (4.1 vs 4.0 stars), though the TYT has more reviews at 142 compared to 44. That larger sample suggests consistent performance but doesn't indicate the UV-28 has quality problems.

Buy the UV-28 if you want maximum power on a budget, need GPS and Bluetooth features, or value easy programming through CHIRP. Buy the TYT if DMR digital mode is essential for your network and you need weatherproof IP67 sealing for harsh conditions.

The UV-28 is the stronger pick for the majority of handheld radio users. Choose the TYT only if its specific features directly match your operating requirements.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee on a tight budget

    It costs less and scores higher on beginner friendliness, making it the sensible entry point for new operators.

    UV-28
  • Wet or dusty outdoor operator

    Its IP67 rating tolerates water and dust better, which suits rough outings in harsh conditions.

    MD-UV390
  • Hams wanting to try DMR

    DMR support lets operators explore digital voice, which the Baofeng does not offer.

    MD-UV390
  • SOTA or POTA summit activator

    Its 10W output and GPS suit summit and field operations where transmit power matters most.

    UV-28
  • Operator programming large channel lists

    It holds 3000 channels, three times the Baofeng's 1000, for operators managing extensive lists.

    MD-UV390
  • ARES or RACES emergency team member

    Its 10W output, GPS, and lower cost make it a practical radio for emergency deployment.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,000)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • IP67 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecTYT MD-UV390
—
Price
$120.99
64
Overall Score
61
+5% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
3000
3.0× difference
360g
Weight
—
2200 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
Color LCD
Display
Color LCD
—
IP Rating
IP67
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1

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Baofeng UV-28PICK

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TYT MD-UV390

$120.99 on Amazon

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