RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Quansheng UV-K1 vs Y23UV-98PLUS
Our pick
Y23UV-98PLUS$78.28
The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner for most users.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The Y23UV-98PLUS includes GPS and APRS capability, while the UV-K1 offers neither. The Y23UV-98PLUS also has a known TX power of 10W and a confirmed price of $78, whereas the UV-K1's power output and price are undisclosed. The UV-K1's advantage is CHIRP compatibility for programming, which the Y23UV-98PLUS lacks, but this is a minor convenience rather than a core feature gap.
Owners report slightly higher satisfaction with the UV-K1 at 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews, compared to 4.0 out of 5 from 16 reviews for the Y23UV-98PLUS. However, the Y23UV-98PLUS has more reviews, giving a broader sample of owner experience. Both reflect positive feedback.
The UV-K1 makes sense only if you prioritize CHIRP programming and are willing to accept missing specifications and no GPS or APRS features. The Y23UV-98PLUS suits buyers who want documented specs, GPS navigation capability, APRS support, and a transparent price point.
Go with the Y23UV-98PLUS unless CHIRP compatibility is essential to your workflow.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious buyer wanting maximum features
Offers the higher value and more features for the money, including APRS and GPS.
Y23UV-98PLUSOperator needing basic APRS position tracking
APRS and GPS support make it the only option here for position reporting.
Y23UV-98PLUSCamping and portable field use
The 10W output and GPS suit campsites where longer reach matters.
Y23UV-98PLUSAbsolute beginner wanting simple local simplex
Its analog VHF and UHF operation avoids extra features, keeping early local simplex use simple.
UV-K1Monitoring and scanning listener
Its 200-channel memory covers typical scanning needs without paying for APRS or GPS.
UV-K1
Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K1
- 54% cheaper ($35.98 vs $78.28)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 200)
- 71% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Quansheng UV-K1
$35.98 on AmazonY23UV-98PLUSPICK
$78.28 on AmazonKeep researching
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