Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-82HP vs Yaesu VX-6R

The UV-82HP is the clear winner here. The single most important differentiator is price: at $50, the Baofeng costs significantly less than the Yaesu, while also delivering higher transmit power at 7W versus 5W. Both radios share identical feature sets across digital modes, lack any weather sealing, and support CHIRP programming. The UV-82HP is heavier by 56 grams, though this is negligible for a handheld. Owners of the Yaesu report a higher satisfaction rating at 4.6/5, but the UV-82HP still earns strong marks at 4.4/5 from a much larger sample of owners. For budget-conscious operators who prioritize transmission power and affordability, the UV-82HP is the practical choice. The VX-6R appeals only if you value the higher owner satisfaction rating enough to pay an unknown premium. Buy the UV-82HP unless you have specific reasons to prefer the Yaesu, such as prior familiarity with that brand or access to a compelling price.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee making local VHF and UHF contacts

    It costs less and its beginner-friendly rating is higher, making it an easy first radio for local contacts.

    UV-82HP
  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting basic repeater access

    Its lower price and higher value rating give budget buyers more radio for the money on repeaters.

    UV-82HP
  • SOTA activator prioritizing rugged build and extra channels

    The VX-6R offers a higher feature score and a sturdier build for field activations away from base.

    VX-6R
  • Hiker wanting the lightest radio for trail carry

    At 214g it is noticeably lighter than the 270g VX-6R and a higher portability rating.

    UV-82HP
  • Secondary outdoor radio for casual use

    Its lower cost and lighter weight make it a practical backup radio for occasional outdoor use.

    UV-82HP

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82HP

  • 40% more TX power (7W vs 5W)
  • 29% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • 56g lighter (214g vs 270g)

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 8x more memory channels (999 vs 128)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-82HPSpecYaesu VX-6R
53
Overall Score
50
+6% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+41% for winner
128
Memory Channels
999
7.7× difference
214g
Weight
270g
+27% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+28% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
685256254850 757440563366
UPC
788026098125
Black
Color
Black
8.4 Volts
Voltage
3.7 Volts (DC)
UHF, VHF
Tuner Type
UHF
UV-82HP
Model Number
VX-6R
UV-82HP
Mfr Part Number
VX-6R
[IPX4-]
Waterproof Rating
JIS7
[INF] Other two-way radios, walkie-talkies, or ham radios compatible with UHF and VHF frequencies, tuner technology, and power levels
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
VOX Talk Around Mode, Battery Saver Mode
Additional Features
Waterproof
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof
2.5"D x 7"W x 8.1"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-82HPPICK

Search on Amazon

Yaesu VX-6R

Search on Amazon

Keep researching

Related Buying Guides

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons