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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82$24.99

The Baofeng UV-82 is the clear winner here. While both radios share identical transmit power and similarly basic feature sets, the UV-82 pulls ahead with a 6-point overall score advantage and significantly better software support through CHIRP compatibility. This programming flexibility makes a substantial practical difference in the field, allowing users to easily customize frequencies and settings without proprietary software restrictions.

The single most important differentiator is CHIRP support on the UV-82. This open-source programming tool is invaluable for amateur radio operators who frequently adjust frequencies or want to avoid vendor lock-in.

The Baofeng UV-82 suits operators who prioritize flexibility, easier programming, and proven long-term support from the amateur radio community. The Radtel RT-920 might appeal only to budget-conscious buyers with extremely limited needs who are willing to trade convenience for a four-dollar savings, though the unknown weight specification raises questions about transparency.

For most amateur radio operators, spend the extra four dollars for the UV-82. You'll gain CHIRP compatibility, better documentation, and a more mature product with established community resources. The higher overall score reflects these real-world advantages that matter during actual deployment.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New beginner needing basic VHF/UHF comms

    Its focus on basic VHF/UHF makes it ideal for a new technician starting out.

    UV-82
  • Budget field operator needing wide-band monitoring

    The massive channel memory and wide-band capability suit monitoring needs.

    RT-920
  • Portable camping or local repeater work

    Its specific recommendation for local camping and repeater work is a strong fit.

    UV-82
  • Beginner exploring ham radio or go-bag use

    The Bluetooth feature and general beginner focus make it versatile for exploration.

    RT-920
  • Operator prioritizing basic simplicity and core comms

    It is explicitly designed for basic VHF/UHF operations without complex features.

    UV-82
  • Budget-conscious user needing maximum channel capacity

    The 960 channel memory provides significantly more capacity than the competitor.

    RT-920

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • 47% cheaper ($24.99 vs $47.04)
  • 27% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP54 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecRadtel RT-920
$24.99
Price
$47.04
70
Overall Score
63
+11% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
128
Memory Channels
960
7.7× difference
260g
Weight
—
2800 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+27% 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
UHF/VHF
BAOFENG UV-82
Model Number
RT-920
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-920 Main unit, 1x 2200mAh 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
Smartphones, USB-C devices
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band Two Way Radio, Emergency Alarm
Additional Features
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
1.15"D x 2.29"W x 5.08"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.57"D x 2"W x 10.62"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82PICK

$24.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-920

$47.04 on Amazon

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