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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Radioddity GD-168 vs Radioddity GD-88

Our pick

Radioddity GD-88$154.99

The Radioddity GD-88 is the clear winner. For just fourteen dollars more, you're getting a radio with substantially better capabilities and a significantly higher overall score that reflects real-world performance advantages.

The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The GD-88 includes DMR digital mode, APRS positioning, and GPS functionality, while the GD-168 offers none of these. This isn't about bells and whistles; these are capabilities that expand what you can actually do on the air. The GD-88's 19-point score advantage directly reflects this gap.

The GD-168 makes sense only if you're an absolute beginner who needs the absolute cheapest entry point and plans to upgrade soon. The GD-88 should be your choice if you want a radio that grows with your interests and keeps you relevant as you develop your skills.

We recommend the GD-88 for nearly every amateur. The price premium is negligible for the capability jump you're getting, and the better overall score suggests you'll actually enjoy using it. Skip the GD-168 unless budget constraints are genuinely severe.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first DMR adopter

    Costs less and still covers DMR and APRS, making it a sensible entry point.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Portable SOTA or POTA activator

    Built-in GPS, 7W output, and IP54 splash resistance suit field activations outdoors.

    GD-88
  • Everyday carry digital operator

    At 220g it is noticeably lighter than the alternative, easier to carry all day.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Operator wanting more capability

    Seven watts of output and a higher feature score favor operators wanting more capability.

    GD-88
  • Uncertain beginner wanting simpler setup

    Its higher beginner score and lighter build make it the friendlier first purchase.

    Radioddity GD-168

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 10% cheaper ($139.99 vs $154.99)
  • 98g lighter (220g vs 318g)
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-88

  • 40% more TX power (7W vs 5W)
  • 67% more battery (3000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • IP54 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radioddity GD-168SpecRadioddity GD-88
$139.99
Price
$154.99
72
Overall Score
75
+4% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
7.00W
+41% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
4000
220g
Weight
318g
+45% difference
1800 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+67% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
—
IP Rating
IP54
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
GD-168
Model Number
GD 88
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x 2600mAh Battery, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Adaptor, 1 x Desktop Charger Base, 1 x Type-C Cable (for programming & charging), 1 x GD-168 DMR Radio, 1 x Standard ANT, 1 x 15’’ Long ANT
Built-In Media
3000mAh lithium-ion battery, programming cable
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Compatible Devices
[Other two-way radios on VHF/UHF bands & accessories with compatible connectors]
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
Uhf
18 month warranty
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
4.07"D x 2.11"W x 2.11"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.4"D x 2"W x 5"H

Made your choice?

Radioddity GD-168

$139.99 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-88PICK

$154.99 on Amazon

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