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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-880G

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82$24.99

The Baofeng UV-82 is the clear winner for most users. Despite nearly identical overall scores, it offers superior value with a $35 price advantage, proven 8W output, and established CHIRP compatibility for programming flexibility. The UV-82 is also lighter at 260g and has been extensively tested in the amateur radio community.

The single most important differentiator is price-to-performance ratio. The Baofeng delivers known specifications and reliable performance at a budget-friendly cost, while the Radtel's missing TX power specification and weight data raise red flags about product documentation and quality control.

The UV-82 suits budget-conscious operators and those who prioritize simplicity, proven reliability, and easy customization through CHIRP software. The RT-880G makes sense only for users specifically needing APRS and GPS capabilities and who don't mind paying premium pricing for features the UV-82 lacks.

For the vast majority of amateur radio newcomers and casual operators, the Baofeng UV-82 is the smarter choice. Its lower cost, documented specifications, and superior programmability outweigh the Radtel's advanced features, which most entry-level users won't regularly utilize.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New beginner needing basic local comms

    Its simple interface and low cost make it perfect for initial learning and local monitoring.

    UV-82
  • SOTA/POTA activators needing GPS and APRS

    The built-in GPS and APRS support are essential tools for location-based field operations.

    RT-880G
  • Budget-conscious user for local repeater work

    It offers ample channels and VHF/UHF capability at a very low price point.

    UV-82
  • Emergency group needing position reporting

    The integrated GPS and APRS features are crucial for accurate emergency coordination.

    RT-880G
  • Operator prioritizing maximum portability and simplicity

    Its lighter weight and straightforward design make it ideal for long-duration camping trips.

    UV-82

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • 71% cheaper ($24.99 vs $85.80)
  • 17% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • 81g lighter (260g vs 341g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP54 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G

  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecRadtel RT-880G
$24.99
Price
$85.80
70
Overall Score
70
8.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+25% for winner
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
260g
Weight
341g
+32% difference
2800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+16% for winner
LCD
Display
—
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
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
VHF/UHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
BAOFENG UV-82
Model Number
RT-880G
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-880G 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
Radtel two-way radios, devices on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies, compatible external antennas
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band Two Way Radio, Emergency Alarm
Additional Features
GPS/APRS, AM FM SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater
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-880G

$85.80 on Amazon

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