RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-82 vs Retevis RA89
The UV-82 is the clear winner for most operators. The most important differentiator is price: at $25 versus $67, the UV-82 costs less than half as much while delivering known transmit power of 8W and superior owner feedback (4.4/5 from 830 reviews compared to 4.5/5 from 278 reviews). Both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS, and both support CHIRP programming. The RA89 is slightly heavier and offers an IP68 rating versus the UV-82's IP54, meaning better water resistance, but we lack the RA89's transmit power specification. On listed specs, price, and owner ratings, the UV-82 composes a stronger overall package.
Buy the UV-82 if you want exceptional value and proven owner satisfaction in a standard handheld. Buy the RA89 if water resistance is critical to your use case and you can justify the higher cost despite fewer owner reviews to reference.
The UV-82 is the recommended choice for budget-conscious operators seeking a capable, well-reviewed entry-level radio.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time Technician licensee
It costs less and covers the VHF and UHF repeater frequencies a new Technician needs to get on the air.
UV-82Buyer prioritizing lowest upfront cost
It costs considerably less than the alternative while still offering VHF and UHF operation with CHIRP programming.
UV-82Hiker or camper wanting a lighter radio
At 238 grams it is noticeably lighter than the Retevis, which matters on long carries.
UV-82ARES or RACES volunteer needing field durability
Its IP68 rating protects it from dust, water, and rough handling during emergency deployments.
Retevis RA89Operator wanting a backup radio for bad weather
The IP68 sealing lets it survive rain, mud, and humidity better than the Baofeng.
Retevis RA89Operator who needs more channel storage
It offers 200 memory channels compared with 128, leaving more room for repeaters and simplex frequencies.
Retevis RA89
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82
- 57g lighter (238g vs 295g)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis RA89
- 56% more memory channels (200 vs 128)
- 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- IP68 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-82
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