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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-7B vs Retevis A3

Our pick

Baofeng UV-7B$26.99

The Baofeng UV-7B is the clear winner here. This is a straightforward choice based on substantially better performance and value proposition.

The single most important differentiator is the overall quality score, where the UV-7B's 71 out of 100 dramatically outperforms the Retevis A3's 31 out of 100. This isn't a marginal difference; it represents a radio that's fundamentally more reliable and functional. Adding to this advantage, the UV-7B supports CHIRP programming, which is invaluable for managing frequencies and settings without proprietary software. The UV-7B also costs just 31 percent of the Retevis A3's price.

The Baofeng UV-7B suits anyone looking for a budget-friendly handheld that doesn't sacrifice core functionality or reliability. The Retevis A3 might appeal only to someone with very specific legacy system requirements, though the low score suggests those requirements would be poorly met anyway.

Get the Baofeng UV-7B. It delivers superior performance at one-third the cost, includes CHIRP compatibility, and earns significantly higher marks from reviewers. There's no practical reason to choose the Retevis A3 given these specifications.

Runner-up
Retevis A3

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner needing digital modes

    The UV-7B offers crucial digital modes and Bluetooth features for the low price.

    UV-7B
  • Operator needing basic NOAA monitoring and repeater use

    The A3 is ideal for basic analog monitoring and reliable VHF/UHF coverage.

    A3
  • Portable field use or backup secondary radio

    Its advanced features and low cost make it perfect for a secondary HT or loaner.

    UV-7B
  • New licensee prioritizing simplicity and basic coverage

    The A3's analog simplicity and focus on basic multi-band coverage are excellent for starting out.

    A3
  • Advanced user needing modern connectivity and features

    The UV-7B's Bluetooth and CHIRP support provide advanced functionality beyond basic analog use.

    UV-7B

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-7B

  • 61% cheaper ($26.99 vs $69.99)
  • 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Retevis A3

  • 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-7BSpecRetevis A3
$26.99
Price
$69.99
70
Overall Score
30
2.3× difference
1000
Memory Channels
999
1800 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+39% for winner
Color LCD
Display
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Blue
color
Green
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-7BPICK

$26.99 on Amazon

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