RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026BTECH UV-PRO vs TYT MD-UV390
Our pick
BTECH UV-PRO$197.89
The TYT MD-UV390 edges out the UV-PRO by a narrow margin, though these radios serve different purposes.
The most important differentiator is digital mode support. The MD-UV390 is a DMR radio, the dominant digital standard in amateur radio. The UV-PRO focuses on analog with APRS and GPS, making it a different tool entirely. Both radios share the same IP67 weatherproofing. We lack TX power and weight specs for the UV-PRO, and pricing for either radio, so direct hardware comparison is incomplete. Owners of the MD-UV390 report 4.0 out of 5 stars across 142 reviews, while UV-PRO owners report 4.3 out of 5 across 367 reviews, indicating satisfaction on both sides.
Choose the MD-UV390 if you operate on DMR networks or want to prepare for the digital shift in amateur radio. Choose the UV-PRO if you need APRS position reporting and GPS capability for outdoor use, and value the higher owner satisfaction rating.
For most amateur radio operators, the MD-UV390 is the safer default buy. DMR has widespread infrastructure and community adoption. However, budget and use case matter equally here. Without knowing UV-PRO pricing or full specs, recommend comparing both against your specific mode requirements.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Field operator needing position reporting
APRS and GPS let you report location, which the TYT cannot do at all.
UV-PROOperator programming large channel lists
Its 3000 channel memory far exceeds the UV-PRO's 180 channels for large codeplugs.
MD-UV390Emergency communications volunteer (ARES/RACES)
The UV-PRO's position reporting and rugged build suit ARES and RACES field activations.
UV-PROTechnician upgrading from a basic handheld
Technicians moving up from basic handhelds gain GPS, Bluetooth, and APRS on the UV-PRO.
UV-PRO
Reasons to choose BTECH UV-PRO
- 18% more battery (2600 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390
- 39% cheaper ($120.99 vs $197.89)
- 17x more memory channels (3,000 vs 180)
- Has DMR digital mode
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
BTECH UV-PROPICK
$197.89 on AmazonTYT MD-UV390
$120.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

