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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Quansheng TK11 vs TYT MD-UV390

Our pick

TYT MD-UV390$120.99

The TYT MD-UV390 is the stronger choice for most operators. The single most important differentiator is DMR digital mode support: the MD-UV390 offers it while the TK11 does not. This alone justifies the $24 price difference for anyone planning to use digital networks. The MD-UV390 also carries an IP67 rating, meaning it handles weather and dust better than the TK11, which lists no IP rating. Owners have reported favorably on both radios, with the MD-UV390 drawing from a much larger sample of 142 reviews versus 15 for the TK11. We lack the TK11's transmit power figure and the MD-UV390's weight, so those comparisons remain incomplete. The TK11 supports CHIRP programming while the MD-UV390 does not, which matters if that workflow is essential to you. Buy the MD-UV390 if you want DMR capability and weather resistance. Buy the TK11 only if you need CHIRP support and have no use for digital modes. For general handheld radio use, the MD-UV390 offers more features and better owner feedback at a modest premium.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee learning analog basics

    Its simpler analog setup suits a new licensee and it is the easier entry point.

    TK11
  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting local simplex

    It costs less and covers VHF and UHF for everyday local simplex conversations.

    TK11
  • Hams wanting to try DMR digital modes

    It supports DMR with 3000 channels, which the simpler analog radio cannot offer.

    MD-UV390
  • Wet or dusty outdoor operators

    Its IP67 rating makes it the better choice for rain, dust, and rough outdoor use.

    MD-UV390
  • Mac owner who programs their own radio

    CHIRP programming works on macOS, while the TYT software is Windows only.

    TK11

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 20% cheaper ($96.99 vs $120.99)
  • 36% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • IP67 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng TK11SpecTYT MD-UV390
$96.99
Price
$120.99
39
Overall Score
61
+56% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
999
Memory Channels
3000
3.0× difference
284g
Weight
—
3000 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+37% for winner
—
Display
Color LCD
—
IP Rating
IP67
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

TYT MD-UV390PICK

$120.99 on Amazon

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