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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-82HP vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82HP$50.00

The Baofeng UV-82HP is the clear winner here. It offers superior value with a $24 price advantage, higher transmit power at 7 watts, and better overall score (65 vs 52). The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility. The UV-82HP supports CHIRP, making programming straightforward through your computer. The Radtel RT-880 lacks this, forcing you to use proprietary software or manual programming, which creates unnecessary friction for most users.

The UV-82HP is ideal for budget-conscious operators who value ease of use and want straightforward software compatibility. The RT-880 makes sense only if you specifically need features not listed here that justify its higher price and lack of CHIRP support, though this seems unlikely given the scoring disparity.

We recommend the Baofeng UV-82HP for nearly everyone shopping in this category. It delivers on fundamentals without compromise: affordability, adequate power, and the critical advantage of CHIRP support. Unless you have specific requirements pulling you toward the RT-880, the UV-82HP represents smarter value for amateur radio newcomers and experienced operators alike.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time, budget-conscious local operator

    Its low price and simple operation make it ideal for starting out.

    UV-82HP
  • Experienced operator needing high channel count

    The massive 1024 channel memory supports complex, multi-region operations.

    RT-880
  • Portable outdoor use needing good power

    The higher transmit power provides better signal reach for outdoor contacts.

    UV-82HP
  • Technician needing multi-region coverage

    Its robust channel memory is better suited for covering diverse operational areas.

    RT-880
  • Buyer prioritizing simplicity and low cost

    The significantly lower price point makes it the clear choice for beginners.

    UV-82HP

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP

  • 32% cheaper ($50.00 vs $74.00)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • 33% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82HPSpecRadtel RT-880
$50.00
Price
$74.00
66
Overall Score
52
+27% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
1800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+33% for winner
Display
TFT Color
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
Black
Color
Standard
8.4 Volts
Voltage
7.38 Volts
UHF, VHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
UV-82HP
Model Number
RT-880
baofeng
Built-In Media
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh 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
UV-82HP
Mfr Part Number
Programming Cable
[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, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
VOX Talk Around Mode, Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
1 year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
2.5"D x 7"W x 8.1"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82HPPICK

$50.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

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