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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82$59.99

The Baofeng UV-82 is the clear winner here. It offers substantially better value at a lower price point with a higher overall score that reflects superior performance and features.

The single most important differentiator is the UV-82's significantly better overall rating of 67 versus 52. This 15-point gap is substantial and indicates meaningful differences in reliability, functionality, and user experience. Additionally, the UV-82 provides known specifications including 8W transmit power and CHIRP compatibility, while the RT-880 leaves critical details unspecified, making it difficult to assess its actual capabilities.

The Baofeng UV-82 should appeal to budget-conscious operators and newcomers who want a proven workhorse with solid community support. The Radtel RT-880 might interest only those with specific features or preferences not reflected in these standard metrics, though the missing specifications raise red flags about product maturity.

Unless you have a compelling reason to choose the RT-880 that isn't captured here, buy the UV-82. It's cheaper, better-reviewed, and you'll actually know what you're getting. The lack of complete specifications on the Radtel is a significant concern that compounds its lower score.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner needing simple VHF/UHF comms

    Its user-friendly interface and basic features make it ideal for starting out.

    UV-82
  • Experienced operator needing high channel count

    The massive 1024 channel memory supports complex, multi-region operations.

    RT-880
  • Budget-conscious local repeater monitoring

    The lower price point and sufficient features provide excellent value for local use.

    UV-82
  • Multi-region operator needing many frequencies

    Its large memory capacity is superior for covering diverse operational areas.

    RT-880
  • Portable camping or SOTA/POTA operation

    Its lighter weight and sufficient power make it excellent for extended outdoor trips.

    UV-82

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • 19% cheaper ($59.99 vs $74.00)
  • 17% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP54 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecRadtel RT-880
$59.99
Price
$74.00
67
Overall Score
52
+28% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
260g
Weight
2800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+16% for winner
LCD
Display
TFT Color
IP54
IP Rating
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
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
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-82PICK

$59.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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