Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-82HP vs Radtel RT-880G

Our pick

Radtel RT-880G$97.50

The Radtel RT-880G edges out a narrow victory despite costing nearly twice as much. Both radios score similarly overall, but the RT-880G's integrated GPS and APRS capability create genuine utility advantages for emergency response and location tracking that the Baofeng simply cannot match. However, this verdict hinges on whether you actually need those features.

The single most important differentiator is APRS and GPS functionality. The RT-880G enables automatic position reporting and digital mapping, while the UV-82HP cannot. For contesters, emergency coordinators, or serious preppers, this is game-changing. For casual repeater users, it's unnecessary.

Budget-conscious operators and those who program frequently via CHIRP should grab the UV-82HP, which delivers solid performance at an unbeatable price point. Serious digital mode enthusiasts willing to spend more should choose the RT-880G for its positioning capabilities and APRS integration.

Ultimately, buy the UV-82HP if price matters most and you stick to traditional FM. Buy the RT-880G if location data justifies the investment. The choice depends entirely on your operational priorities rather than raw performance.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee seeking local contacts

    Costs less and has a simpler interface, making it the easier starting point for new operators.

    UV-82HP
  • Lightweight daily carry for casual local use

    At 214 grams, it is far lighter than the alternative, suiting pocket or belt carry.

    UV-82HP
  • Summits on the Air portable activator

    APRS and GPS support plus higher 10W output suit summit activations and position reporting.

    RT-880G
  • ARES member needing position reporting

    Built-in APRS and GPS let the operator report position during emergency net activity.

    RT-880G
  • Multi-mode versatility seeker with large memory needs

    With 1024 memory channels and more features, it handles varied local and field operating needs.

    RT-880G

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP

  • 127g lighter (214g vs 341g)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G

  • 43% more TX power (10W vs 7W)
  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
  • 33% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82HPSpecRadtel RT-880G
—
Price
$97.50
53
Overall Score
75
+41% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+43% for winner
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
214g
Weight
341g
+59% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+33% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
Black
Color
Standard
8.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF, VHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
UV-82HP
Model Number
RT-880G
baofeng
Built-In Media
1x RT-880G 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
RT-880G
[INF] Other two-way radios, walkie-talkies, or ham radios compatible with UHF and VHF frequencies, tuner technology, and power levels
Compatible Devices
Radtel two-way radios, devices on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies, compatible external antennas
VOX Talk Around Mode, Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
GPS/APRS, AM FM SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater
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-82HP

Search on Amazon

Radtel RT-880GPICK

$97.50 on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons