RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Baofeng UV-7B vs Retevis RA79
Our pick
Baofeng UV-7B$25.49
The Retevis RA79 edges out the Baofeng UV-7B despite a lower composite score, primarily because it offers CHIRP compatibility for easier programming. Both radios lack published transmit power figures and neither lists an IP rating. The UV-7B includes Bluetooth while the RA79 does not, but this feature gap is offset by the RA79's programming advantage. Weight favors the RA79 at 225g versus 260g. Owner feedback slightly prefers the RA79 at 4.5/5 from 278 reviews compared to the UV-7B's 4.4/5 from 98 reviews. The price difference of six dollars is negligible for radios in this category.
The single most important differentiator is CHIRP support on the RA79, which makes configuration substantially easier for most operators.
Buy the UV-7B if Bluetooth connectivity is essential for your setup. Buy the RA79 if you want straightforward programming without hunting for manufacturer software or workarounds.
The RA79 is the better choice for most users due to CHIRP compatibility and slightly stronger owner feedback, with minimal price premium.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee buying a first radio
Costs less and offers 1000 channels, making it the sensible pick for a tight budget.
UV-7BAmateur club buying a loaner or exam practice radio
Its large 1000-channel memory and low price suit shared club radios and exam practice units.
UV-7BOperator who wants Bluetooth and extra memory channels
Bluetooth support and 1000 memory channels give more feature depth for an operator who wants options.
UV-7BNew operator exploring multiple bands including 1.25m
Adds 1.25m band coverage and scores higher for beginner ease, suiting new operators exploring bands.
RA79Hiker or portable operator prioritizing a lighter radio
At 225 grams it is lighter than the alternative, which helps on long hikes and portable outings.
RA79
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-7B
- 19% cheaper ($25.49 vs $31.49)
- 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 200)
- 29% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Retevis RA79
- 35g lighter (225g vs 260g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-7BPICK
$25.49 on AmazonRetevis RA79
$31.49 on AmazonMore head-to-heads