RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-28 vs Yaesu FT-70DR
Our pick
Yaesu FT-70DR$249.88
The UV-28 is the clear winner for budget-conscious operators who want core features at a steep discount.
The single most important differentiator is price: the UV-28 costs $43 versus $300 for the FT-70DR. On specifications, the UV-28 also delivers higher transmit power (10W vs 5W) and includes GPS, which the Yaesu lacks. The FT-70DR is lighter and rated IP54 for weather resistance, but we have no IP rating data for the Baofeng. Both support CHIRP programming and neither includes DMR or APRS.
Owners report very high satisfaction with the FT-70DR at 4.8/5 from six reviews, though that's a small sample. The UV-28 shows strong owner feedback at 4.1/5 from 44 reviews, giving us broader evidence of what buyers actually experience. The UV-28 should appeal to newcomers, budget operators, or anyone running a second radio, while the FT-70DR suits those prioritizing weather sealing and a compact design who can justify the seven-fold price premium.
Buy the UV-28 unless you need the Yaesu's weather rating or specifically value its lighter weight enough to justify the cost difference.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious entry-level operators
Costs far less than the alternative while offering a higher value score and beginner-friendly controls.
UV-28First-time licensee wanting digital Fusion access
Supports C4FM digital voice, so it suits Fusion repeater users from day one.
FT-70DRLocal club Fusion repeater member
Native C4FM mode lets it work directly with local Fusion repeaters without extra gear.
FT-70DRSOTA and POTA field activators
Higher 10W output and built-in GPS give field activators more reach and position data.
UV-28Emergency communications volunteers (ARES/RACES)
Higher transmit power and a large memory bank suit emergency deployment and coordination tasks.
UV-28Weight-sensitive hikers and casual monitors
At 250g and rated IP54, it is lighter and more weather resistant for casual field monitoring.
FT-70DR
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-70DR
- 11% more memory channels (1,108 vs 1,000)
- 110g lighter (250g vs 360g)
- Has C4FM/System Fusion
- IP54 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-28PICK
Search on AmazonYaesu FT-70DR
$249.88 on AmazonKeep researching
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