Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng UV-82HP vs Radtel RT-730

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82HP$50.00

The UV-82HP edges out the RT-730 as the better value, though the margin is narrow and depends on your priorities.

The most important differentiator is owner feedback. The UV-82HP has substantially more Amazon reviews (4820 vs 176) and a higher owner rating (4.4 vs 4.1), giving you much stronger evidence of real-world satisfaction. The RT-730's smaller review pool makes it harder to assess reliability. Specs-wise, the RT-730 offers more transmit power for less money, but both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS—they're basic FM transceivers. The UV-82HP's known weight of 214g is heavier, though we lack the RT-730's weight specification, so we can't call this a true advantage.

The UV-82HP's higher RadioRanked score (67 vs 63) reflects better specs per dollar when factoring in the stronger owner endorsement. Both radios support CHIRP programming, so frequency management is equally straightforward on either.

Buy the UV-82HP if you want the safer choice backed by thousands of verified owner reports. Buy the RT-730 only if maximizing transmit power on a tight budget is your sole concern and you're comfortable with limited user feedback. For most operators, the UV-82HP's established track record makes it the sounder purchase.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time local contact operator

    Its higher 'beginner' score and local focus make it ideal for starting out.

    UV-82HP
  • Budget-conscious field day backup radio

    The slightly higher output power and channel count offer better overall value.

    RT-730
  • Operator prioritizing CHIRP and reliability

    The Radtel offers a slightly higher feature score and reliable output power.

    RT-730
  • New operator needing basic repeater access

    Its 'best for' list specifically mentions basic repeater access needs.

    UV-82HP
  • Portable outdoor use or secondary radio

    The Baofeng's specific recommendation for secondary outdoor use is a strong fit.

    UV-82HP

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP

  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730

  • 22% cheaper ($39.00 vs $50.00)
  • 43% more TX power (10W vs 7W)
  • 55% more memory channels (199 vs 128)
  • 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82HPSpecRadtel RT-730
$50.00
Price
$39.00
67
Overall Score
63
+6% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+43% for winner
128
Memory Channels
199
+56% for winner
214g
Weight
—
1800 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+39% for winner
—
Display
LCD
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
685256254850 757440563366
UPC
016392405248
Black
Color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
8.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF, VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-82HP
Model Number
RT-730
baofeng
Built-In Media
1 RT-730 Ham Radio, 1xProgramming Cable,1x 2500mAh Li-ion Battery Pack, 1x Standard Long Antenna, 1x Desktop charger, 1x belt clip, 1x user manual
UV-82HP
Mfr Part Number
RT-730
[INF] Other two-way radios, walkie-talkies, or ham radios compatible with UHF and VHF frequencies, tuner technology, and power levels
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on the same frequency band, compatible accessories like headsets, earpieces, or external antennas, and computers for programming.
VOX Talk Around Mode, Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
16-630Mhz Receiver, Long Range, High quality resolution LCD, Type C charging, Full band radio am/fm/air/cb/ham/noaa/short wave receiver
1 year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82HPPICK

$50.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-730

$39.00 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons