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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Radtel RT-920$47.04

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?

  • First-time licensee learning repeater basics

    Baofeng earns a higher beginner score and CHIRP support for programming local repeaters.

    UV-82
  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest entry cost

    Baofeng costs less than the alternative while still covering VHF and UHF for local simplex and repeater use.

    UV-82
  • Field operator needing higher transmit power

    Radtel offers 8W transmit against the Baofeng's 5W, which helps reach distant repeaters from the field.

    RT-920
  • Shack companion or go-bag with phone pairing

    Radtel adds Bluetooth and 960 memory channels, suiting a shack companion or organized go-bag setup.

    RT-920
  • Operator wanting wide-band monitoring of many frequencies

    Radtel's 960 channels and higher features score make it the better pick for monitoring many frequencies.

    RT-920

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 60% more TX power (8W vs 5W)
  • 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
  • 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecRadtel RT-920
—
Price
$47.04
49
Overall Score
69
+41% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+59% for winner
128
Memory Channels
960
7.7× difference
238g
Weight
—
1800 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+22% for winner
LCD
Display
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
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
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
1.57"D x 2"W x 10.62"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82

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Radtel RT-920PICK

$47.04 on Amazon

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