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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-82HP vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82HP$50.00

The Baofeng UV-82HP is the clear winner here. While the Radtel RT-920 offers slightly more transmit power at 8W versus 7W, this marginal advantage doesn't justify its higher price and lower overall score. The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility. The UV-82HP's support for this popular open-source programming software gives you infinitely more flexibility for frequency management and customization, especially as your radio needs evolve. Without CHIRP support, the RT-920 locks you into manufacturer software, which is typically less intuitive and more restrictive.

Both radios lack modern features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, so they're essentially equivalent on that front. The UV-82HP's higher overall score of 65 versus 61 reflects its better real-world usability and value proposition.

The UV-82HP is ideal for budget-conscious operators who value flexibility and programming ease. The RT-920 makes sense only if you specifically need the extra watt of power and don't mind proprietary programming limitations.

Get the Baofeng UV-82HP. You'll save six dollars, gain superior programmability, and get a radio that scores higher across the board. It's the smarter choice for most amateur operators.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time operator needing basic repeater access

    Its dedicated CHIRP feature makes accessing local repeaters simple and reliable.

    UV-82HP
  • Field operator needing wide-band monitoring

    The massive 960-channel memory allows for extensive monitoring of various bands.

    RT-920
  • Budget-conscious beginner for local contacts

    It offers excellent basic functionality and repeater access at a very low price point.

    UV-82HP
  • Shack companion or go-bag use

    The Bluetooth feature adds modern convenience for logging and communication.

    RT-920
  • Operator prioritizing simple, reliable VHF/UHF use

    The UV-82HP is designed for straightforward operation and basic field use.

    UV-82HP
  • Beginner exploring ham radio and wide monitoring

    Its high channel count and Bluetooth integration make it versatile for exploration.

    RT-920

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP

  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 6% cheaper ($47.04 vs $50.00)
  • 14% more TX power (8W vs 7W)
  • 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
  • 22% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82HPSpecRadtel RT-920
$50.00
Price
$47.04
66
Overall Score
63
+5% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+14% for winner
128
Memory Channels
960
7.7× difference
1800 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+22% for winner
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
Black
Color
Standard
8.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF, VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
UV-82HP
Model Number
RT-920
baofeng
Built-In Media
1x RT-920 Main unit, 1x 2200mAh 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
[INF] Other two-way radios, walkie-talkies, or ham radios compatible with UHF and VHF frequencies, tuner technology, and power levels
Compatible Devices
Smartphones, USB-C devices
VOX Talk Around Mode, Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
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
1.57"D x 2"W x 10.62"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82HPPICK

$50.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-920

$47.04 on Amazon

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