Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82$24.99

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?

  • 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

  • 62% cheaper ($24.99 vs $65.12)
  • 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
$24.99
Price
$65.12
70
Overall Score
54
+30% 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
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
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

$24.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$65.12 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons