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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Yaesu FT-60R

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here. Despite the Yaesu's established reputation, the UV-28 outscores it significantly at 54 versus 39 points while costing less than a quarter of the price.

The single most important differentiator is value. The UV-28 delivers superior performance metrics and features at $47, making the Yaesu's $190 price tag difficult to justify given its lower overall rating. The UV-28 includes GPS functionality, which the Yaesu lacks entirely, adding practical utility for field operations and emergency response.

The UV-28 is ideal for budget-conscious operators, newcomers to ham radio, or anyone seeking a capable dual-band portable without premium pricing. The Yaesu FT-60R might appeal only to those with strong brand loyalty or specific legacy system requirements, though the scoring suggests it's not the best choice for general use.

For most amateur radio enthusiasts, the Baofeng UV-28 represents the smarter purchase. You're getting better overall performance, additional features like GPS, and substantial cost savings that could fund other station improvements. Unless you have compelling reasons tied to your specific radio network or preferences, the UV-28 is the obvious recommendation.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Yaesu FT-60R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner needing basic functionality

    The Baofeng offers excellent features and channels for the significantly lower price point.

    UV-28
  • Professional search and rescue field operations

    The Yaesu's reputation for reliability and analog simplicity is crucial in emergency settings.

    FT-60R
  • SOTA activators needing GPS and portability

    The Baofeng's built-in GPS and high feature count are ideal for field coordination.

    UV-28
  • Technician-class operator needing reliable backup radio

    The Yaesu provides proven, stable analog performance for critical backup communication.

    FT-60R
  • Operator needing maximum features on a tight budget

    It provides a massive feature set and high channel count without breaking the bank.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 80% cheaper ($40.99 vs $209.95)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 57% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecYaesu FT-60R
$40.99
Price
$209.95
77
Overall Score
39
+96% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
1000
2200 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+56% for winner
Color LCD
Display
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
FT-60R
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
1400mA Battery, Charger, antenna, belt clip
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144 - 148 MHz
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
FT-60R
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
MH-37A4B, MH-34B4B, E-DC-5B, EDC-6, CT-44, FBA-25A
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Weather Alert
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
3 Years
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-60R

$209.95 on Amazon

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