Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82$59.99

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.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-920

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

  • 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

  • 22% cheaper ($47.04 vs $59.99)
  • 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecRadtel RT-920
$59.99
Price
$47.04
67
Overall Score
63
+6% 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
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

$59.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-920

$47.04 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons