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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Radtel RT-880$53.38

The Baofeng UV-82 is the clear winner for most users.

The single most important differentiator is price paired with specified performance. The UV-82 costs one-third as much as the Radtel RT-880 while offering a documented 8-watt transmit power. We lack the RT-880's TX power figure, weight, and CHIRP compatibility data, so direct comparison on those specs isn't possible. Both radios share identical feature sets regarding digital modes. The UV-82 scores significantly higher on RadioRanked's composite metric, reflecting better listed specifications relative to current pricing.

Owner feedback slightly favors the UV-82, with 4.4 stars from 830 Amazon reviews versus the RT-880's 4.3 stars from 207 reviews. While the RT-880 has fewer reviews, both ratings suggest general owner satisfaction.

The UV-82 should appeal to budget-conscious operators and newcomers who value proven specifications and broad owner feedback. The RT-880 might interest users specifically seeking its particular feature set, but missing spec data makes informed evaluation difficult.

Buy the Baofeng UV-82 unless you have specific requirements only the Radtel addresses. Its combination of low cost, documented power output, and extensive user validation makes it the practical choice for most handheld radio needs.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time Technician licensee starting out

    Its simpler operation and beginner-friendly design make it the easier first radio to learn on.

    UV-82
  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting local repeater access

    It costs less and covers the VHF and UHF repeater bands needed for everyday local comms.

    UV-82
  • Experienced operator needing a high channel count

    It offers 1024 memory channels, far more than the Baofeng, for operators managing many frequencies.

    RT-880
  • Multi-region operator covering several areas

    Its large memory bank suits users who store many repeaters and simplex frequencies across regions.

    RT-880
  • Camper or hiker prioritizing a lighter radio

    At 238 grams with 5 watts of transmit power, it is the better pick for carrying on trips.

    UV-82
  • Buyer needing a higher feature score overall

    It earns a higher feature score, though it trades away some ease of use for capability.

    RT-880

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • 33% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecRadtel RT-880
—
Price
$53.38
49
Overall Score
54
+10% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
—
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
238g
Weight
—
1800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+33% for winner
LCD
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
With Short Wave Antenna Set
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.38 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
VHF/UHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
BAOFENG UV-82
Model Number
RT-880
2 x Baofeng uv-82 charger, 2 X Antenna, 2 x Hand Speaker Mic, 2 X Walkie Talkie Earpiece, 2 x baofeng uv-82 radio, Battery, Cable
Built-In Media
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
Baofeng UV-5R,Baofeng BF-F8HP,Baofeng UV-82HP,Baofeng 5RX,5RM,K5PLUS Ham Radio etc.
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band Two Way Radio, Emergency Alarm
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
1.15"D x 2.29"W x 5.08"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82

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Radtel RT-880PICK

$53.38 on Amazon

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