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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs TYT TH-UV88

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

# Verdict

These radios are essentially matched at 54/100, making this a close call that depends on your priorities. The TYT TH-UV88 edges ahead for most users due to its lower price, confirmed 5W output, and CHIRP compatibility for easy programming. The Baofeng UV-28's GPS feature is interesting but undermined by missing specifications that should concern any serious buyer. You shouldn't have to guess whether your radio's transmit power is adequate or how much it weighs.

The single most important differentiator is CHIRP support on the TYT. Programming radios through computer software dramatically improves the user experience and frequency management, especially for those working with multiple channels or digital modes.

Buy the TYT TH-UV88 if you value ease of programming, confirmed specs, and the lowest entry price. Buy the Baofeng UV-28 only if GPS capability is essential to your operations and you're willing to accept incomplete specifications and potential compatibility issues.

We recommend the TYT TH-UV88 as the safer choice for beginners and budget-conscious operators who want a radio with fully documented capabilities and modern programming support.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
TYT TH-UV88

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee

    It offers core functionality and CHIRP for the lowest possible entry cost.

    TH-UV88
  • SOTA/POTA field coordination and GPS tracking

    The built-in GPS and higher channel count make it ideal for field operations.

    UV-28
  • Casual repeater monitoring and backup radio

    Its simplicity and lower price make it perfect for simple monitoring tasks.

    TH-UV88
  • Emergency preparedness and ARES/RACES deployment

    Its robust features and high channel count are better suited for emergency use.

    UV-28
  • Beginner operator needing high value features

    The combination of GPS and more channels provides better overall value.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 200)
  • 57% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose TYT TH-UV88

  • 2% cheaper ($39.99 vs $40.99)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecTYT TH-UV88
$40.99
Price
$39.99
77
Overall Score
57
+35% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+56% for winner
Color LCD
Display
LCD
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
TH-UV88
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 TH-UV88 Handheld Radio, 1 x Original Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x High Gain Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x Acoustic Tube Headset, 1 x 1400mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Charger Kit, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x User Manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
VHF/UHF
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
CHIRP software, TYT radios (VHF/UHF)
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Dual Band
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
Please feel free to contact us via Amazon if you have any questions or suggestions.
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

TYT TH-UV88

$39.99 on Amazon

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