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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng UV-82HP vs TYT TH-UV88

Our pick

Baofeng UV-82HP$50.00

The Baofeng UV-82HP is the clear winner here. While the TYT TH-UV88 costs ten dollars less, you're getting what you pay for with a notably lower overall score and reduced transmit power.

The single most important differentiator is transmit power. The UV-82HP's 7W output significantly outperforms the TH-UV88's 5W, giving you better range and stronger signal penetration in challenging environments. This advantage compounds when you consider the UV-82HP's superior overall score of 65 versus 54, suggesting better build quality, performance, and user experience across the board.

Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, making them straightforward analog VHF/UHF options suitable for basic communications. Since they're functionally similar in this regard, raw performance becomes the deciding factor.

The UV-82HP is ideal for anyone who wants reliable performance and better range, whether you're a new or experienced operator. The TH-UV88 might appeal only to budget-conscious buyers with minimal range requirements, though the ten dollar savings barely justifies the performance compromises.

Get the Baofeng UV-82HP. The modest price difference is negligible compared to the tangible improvements in power and overall capability.

Runner-up
TYT TH-UV88

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New operator needing reliable local repeater access

    Its higher transmit power and better axes score make it ideal for initial repeater contacts.

    UV-82HP
  • Ultra budget buyer needing basic VHF/UHF functionality

    The slightly lower price point makes the TYT an excellent choice for minimal investment.

    TH-UV88
  • Casual monitoring or loaner radio use

    The lower power and budget nature of the TYT make it perfect for non-critical, casual monitoring.

    TH-UV88
  • Operator needing a secondary radio for outdoor use

    The superior performance metrics and higher power give the Baofeng better outdoor reliability.

    UV-82HP
  • Beginner needing basic features and good performance

    The Baofeng's higher scores and better feature set provide a more robust learning experience.

    UV-82HP

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP

  • 40% more TX power (7W vs 5W)
  • 29% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)

Reasons to choose TYT TH-UV88

  • 20% cheaper ($39.99 vs $50.00)
  • 56% more memory channels (200 vs 128)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82HPSpecTYT TH-UV88
$50.00
Price
$39.99
66
Overall Score
57
+16% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+41% for winner
128
Memory Channels
200
+56% for winner
1800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+28% for winner
Display
LCD
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
8.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UV-82HP
Model Number
TH-UV88
baofeng
Built-In Media
1 x TH-UV88 Handheld Radio, 1 x Original Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x High Gain Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x Acoustic Tube Headset, 1 x 1400mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Charger Kit, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x 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
CHIRP software, TYT radios (VHF/UHF)
VOX Talk Around Mode, Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
Dual Band
1 year
Warranty Description
Please feel free to contact us via Amazon if you have any questions or suggestions.
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82HPPICK

$50.00 on Amazon

TYT TH-UV88

$39.99 on Amazon

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