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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-28 vs Yaesu VX-6R

Our pick

Baofeng UV-28$40.99

The Baofeng UV-28 is the clear winner here. Despite lacking known TX power specifications, it delivers superior overall value with a dramatically lower price point and higher review score. The most important differentiator is cost versus capability: you're paying nearly seven times more for the Yaesu while receiving a significantly lower score and losing the GPS functionality that the Baofeng provides.

The UV-28 should appeal to budget-conscious operators, beginners, and those who want a capable travel radio without breaking the bank. The VX-6R suits experienced operators who prioritize build quality, established reliability, and the Yaesu brand reputation, though the poor overall score raises questions about its current competitiveness.

For most amateur radio users, the Baofeng UV-28 represents better engineering judgment. You get more features, stronger performance metrics, and genuine savings that could fund accessories or additional radios. The VX-6R's premium pricing isn't justified by the available data, particularly given its lower overall score. Unless you have specific loyalty to Yaesu or require features not measured here, the UV-28 delivers substantially better value for the investment.

Winner
Baofeng UV-28
Runner-up
Yaesu VX-6R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner operator

    The Baofeng offers extensive features and channels at a highly affordable price point.

    UV-28
  • Serious POTA/SOTA activation operator

    Its superior durability and focus on reliable analog comms make it ideal for field use.

    VX-6R
  • Emergency communications volunteer (ARES/RACES)

    The UV-28's dual-band capability and high channel count suit varied emergency deployment needs.

    UV-28
  • Operator needing extreme durability and reliability

    The Yaesu is built for rugged outdoor survival use, prioritizing longevity over features.

    VX-6R
  • Advanced user needing deep customization

    While not perfect, the UV-28 provides more accessible features for initial advanced experimentation.

    UV-28

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28

  • 87% cheaper ($40.99 vs $325.00)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
  • 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 VX-6R

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-28SpecYaesu VX-6R
$40.99
Price
$325.00
77
Overall Score
38
2.0× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1000
Memory Channels
999
2200 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+56% for winner
Color LCD
Display
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF
1 Pounds
Item Weight
0.08 Kilograms
UV-28 Plus
Model Number
VX-6R
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
0.5-999 MHz
QYWBAUVEBPSB21
Mfr Part Number
VX-6R
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
CHIRP Compatible, Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Wireless APP Programmable
Additional Features
Waterproof
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-28PICK

$40.99 on Amazon

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