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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-82 vs Yaesu VX-6R

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82$59.99

The Baofeng UV-82 is the clear winner for most users. This is a straightforward value comparison: you're getting a radio that scores higher overall, transmits at greater power, and costs one-fifth the price. The single most important differentiator is value for money. The UV-82 delivers superior performance at a fraction of the cost, making the Yaesu's premium price difficult to justify given its lower output power and overall score.

The UV-82 suits budget-conscious operators, those building their first station, or anyone prioritizing practical features and programmability via CHIRP. The VX-6R appeals exclusively to collectors or operators with specific legacy preferences who already own the necessary programming accessories.

Unless you have a compelling reason to own the Yaesu, the choice is simple. The UV-82 offers better specifications, superior programmability, and genuine value. Even accounting for potential build quality differences, spending 450 percent more for worse performance numbers doesn't make practical sense. Buy the Baofeng and spend your savings on antennas or other gear that will actually improve your operating experience.

Runner-up
Yaesu VX-6R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New, budget-conscious beginner licensee

    It offers essential VHF/UHF features and CHIRP functionality at a low price point.

    UV-82
  • Serious field activation or SOTA operations

    Its extreme durability and high channel count are ideal for rugged outdoor use.

    VX-6R
  • Operator needing basic local repeater access

    The UV-82 provides sufficient power and features for local simplex and repeater work.

    UV-82
  • Emergency communications or survival prepping

    The robust build and focus on reliable analog comms make it superior for emergencies.

    VX-6R
  • Advanced user needing high feature density

    The UV-82 offers more configurable features and flexibility than the VX-6R.

    UV-82

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • 82% cheaper ($59.99 vs $325.00)
  • 60% more TX power (8W vs 5W)
  • 100% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP54 water resistance

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 8x more memory channels (999 vs 128)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82SpecYaesu VX-6R
$59.99
Price
$325.00
67
Overall Score
38
+75% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+59% for winner
128
Memory Channels
999
7.7× difference
260g
Weight
2800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
2.0× difference
LCD
Display
IP54
IP Rating
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
635648693156
UPC
788026098125
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
3.7 Volts (DC)
VHF/UHF
Tuner Type
UHF
BAOFENG UV-82
Model Number
VX-6R
IP54
Waterproof Rating
JIS7
Baofeng UV-5R,Baofeng BF-F8HP,Baofeng UV-82HP,Baofeng 5RX,5RM,K5PLUS Ham Radio etc.
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band Two Way Radio, Emergency Alarm
Additional Features
Waterproof
1.15"D x 2.29"W x 5.08"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82PICK

$59.99 on Amazon

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