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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Baofeng UV-7B vs Radtel RT-860

Our pick

Baofeng UV-7B$26.99

The Baofeng UV-7B is the clear winner here. This is a straightforward comparison where one radio outperforms the other across the board with a significant 23-point advantage in overall score.

The single most important differentiator is the overall rating gap. The UV-7B scores 71/100 versus the RT-860's 48/100, indicating substantially better performance, reliability, or feature implementation. Add to this the UV-7B's CHIRP compatibility, which dramatically simplifies programming and frequency management compared to manual entry on the Radtel.

The price difference of twelve dollars is negligible given the performance disparity. Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, so you're comparing basic analog handhelds on fundamentals. The UV-7B's superior score suggests better build quality, transmit characteristics, receiver performance, or user experience in practical use.

Buy the Baofeng UV-7B if you want solid performance and easier programming with CHIRP support. Buy the Radtel RT-860 only if you have a specific use case or loyalty that justifies the lower score.

The UV-7B is the recommended purchase for nearly all users. It delivers better value and proven performance at a lower price point.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-860

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensed technician on a tight budget

    Its low price and high feature set offer excellent value for beginners.

    UV-7B
  • Operator needing reliable local repeater access

    The dedicated analog VHF/UHF focus provides simplicity for local repeater operations.

    RT-860
  • Portable operations needing advanced digital modes

    The UV-7B supports modern digital protocols like DMR and CHIRP.

    UV-7B
  • Advanced user needing high channel memory

    The 1024 channel memory is beneficial for complex, high-channel-count setups.

    RT-860
  • Backup or secondary HT for general use

    Its low cost and versatility make it an ideal, reliable secondary unit.

    UV-7B

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-7B

  • 27% cheaper ($26.99 vs $36.99)
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 2% more memory channels (1,024 vs 1,000)
  • 11% more battery (2000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-7BSpecRadtel RT-860
$26.99
Price
$36.99
70
Overall Score
45
+56% for winner
1000
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
1800 mAh
Battery
2000 mAh
+11% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Not Found
FCC Authorization
Not Found
Blue
color
With SW/MW Antennas
1
unitCount
1
Blue
Color
With SW/MW Antennas
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception,
UV-7B
Model Number
RT-860
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x USB Charging Cable, 1 x Adapter, 1 x Headset, 1 x UV-7B Radio, 1 x Wrist Strap, Belt Clip
Built-In Media
1x RT-860 Main unit, 1x 2000mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1X Desktop charger, 1x lanyard, 1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
QYWBAUVYQRPBT21
Mfr Part Number
RT-860
Repeater, Smartphone
Compatible Devices
External antennas (50 ohm)
1.77 inches Digital Display, APP Programmable via Bluetooth, Tri-band transmit, USB-C Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-7BPICK

$26.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-860

$36.99 on Amazon

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