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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Radioddity GD-168 vs TYT TH-UV88

Our pick

Radioddity GD-168$139.99

The TYT TH-UV88 is the clear winner here. While the Radioddity GD-168 costs significantly more at $140, the TYT delivers better overall value and performance at just $40. The single most important differentiator is price paired with the TYT's superior overall score of 54 versus 44. The TYT also supports CHIRP, making programming far more convenient, whereas the Radioddity lacks this essential feature for amateur operators who frequently switch frequencies and manage multiple radios.

The Radioddity GD-168 suffers from missing critical specifications, unclear transmit power, and no CHIRP support, which suggests incomplete documentation or development. For someone seeking a budget-friendly dual-band handheld with basic functionality and easy programmability, the TYT TH-UV88 is the obvious choice. The Radioddity GD-168 might appeal only to someone with specific requirements not reflected in this review data, though its higher price and lower score make it hard to recommend without more information.

Buy the TYT TH-UV88 unless you have specific reasons to avoid it. For most users, this radio delivers the best combination of affordability, functionality, and ease of use.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-minded operator moving into DMR

    It adds DMR and APRS at a lower price than many digital-capable handhelds, making it the stronger pick for digital entry.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Technician licensee wanting digital voice

    Built-in DMR support lets a Technician class user explore digital voice modes that the TH-UV88 cannot offer.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Operator wanting APRS and a color screen

    Its APRS support and color display suit operators who want position reporting and a clearer interface.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Deep channel and contact storage user

    With 4000 memory channels, it handles large repeater and contact lists far beyond the TH-UV88's 200 channels.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • New licensed Technician on a tight budget

    It costs less and offers a simpler, more beginner-friendly experience for someone just starting out.

    TH-UV88
  • Backup or loaner radio buyer

    Its lower cost and basic VHF and UHF operation make it a sensible spare that is easy to hand off.

    TH-UV88
  • Casual repeater monitoring

    Its straightforward 5W VHF and UHF operation covers everyday repeater listening without extra features to learn.

    TH-UV88

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 20x more memory channels (4,000 vs 200)
  • 29% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose TYT TH-UV88

  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radioddity GD-168SpecTYT TH-UV88
$139.99
Price
—
72
Overall Score
44
+64% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
4000
Memory Channels
200
20.0× difference
220g
Weight
—
1800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+28% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
LCD
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
GD-168
Model Number
TH-UV88
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
1 x TH-UV88 Handheld Radio, 1 x Original Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x High Gain Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x Acoustic Tube Headset, 1 x 1400mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Charger Kit, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x User Manual
UHF, VHF
Frequency Range
VHF/UHF
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Compatible Devices
CHIRP software, TYT radios (VHF/UHF)
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
Dual Band
18 month warranty
Warranty Description
Please feel free to contact us via Amazon if you have any questions or suggestions.
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Radioddity GD-168PICK

$139.99 on Amazon

TYT TH-UV88

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