RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Yaesu FT-5DR
Our pick
Yaesu FT-5DR$489.95
The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner for most users. RadioRanked's composite score favors the UV-28 at 75/100 versus the FT-5DR's 64/100, which reflects better listed specifications relative to its $43 price tag versus the Yaesu's $510 cost. The single most important differentiator is price and verified owner satisfaction: the UV-28 has a 4.1 out of 5 rating from 44 Amazon reviews, while we have no owner ratings yet for the FT-5DR.
Both radios include GPS and operate at similar specs otherwise, though the UV-28 transmits at 10W versus the Yaesu's 5W, and the Yaesu is lighter at 282g. The UV-28 supports CHIRP programming while the FT-5DR does not. The Yaesu adds APRS capability, which appeals to specific use cases.
The UV-28 is the choice for budget-conscious operators who want solid specs and proven owner satisfaction. The FT-5DR suits those who specifically need APRS and can justify its premium price, though without owner reviews yet, you're buying on spec alone.
For most amateur radio users, buy the UV-28.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
It costs far less than the alternative while covering VHF and UHF with a beginner-friendly interface for new operators.
UV-28Portable SOTA or POTA activator
Its 10W transmit power exceeds the FT-5DR's 5W, helping reach distant stations from summits and field sites.
UV-28ARES or RACES emergency deployment team
A 1000-channel memory, GPS, and low cost make it practical to equip many volunteers for emergency communications.
UV-28Operator on a C4FM repeater network
Native C4FM support and WiRES-X connectivity let it access Fusion repeaters that the Baofeng cannot use.
FT-5DRHiker needing a waterproof handheld
Its IPX7 rating protects it from immersion, and it weighs less than the Baofeng for long carries.
FT-5DROperator wanting dual independent receivers
It offers dual independent receivers and a higher feature score, suiting users who monitor two frequencies at once.
FT-5DR
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-5DR
- 20% more memory channels (1,200 vs 1,000)
- 78g lighter (282g vs 360g)
- Has APRS support
- Has C4FM/System Fusion
- IPX7 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28
Search on AmazonYaesu FT-5DRPICK
$489.95 on AmazonKeep researching
Related Buying Guides
More head-to-heads