RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-880G vs TYT MD-UV390
Our pick
Radtel RT-880G$97.50
The Radtel RT-880G is the stronger choice for most users. The single most important differentiator is feature set: the Radtel includes GPS and APRS, making it suited for mobile and emergency work, while the TYT offers only DMR digital mode with no location capability. The Radtel also delivers double the transmit power at 10W versus 5W, supports CHIRP programming, and costs $26 less. Owners report 4.4 out of 5 stars across 152 Amazon reviews for the Radtel compared to 4.0 out of 5 from 142 reviews for the TYT. The TYT does carry an IP67 weather rating, which the Radtel does not list, and appeals specifically to users already invested in DMR networks. The Radtel RT-880G should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want GPS capability and more power. The TYT MD-UV390 belongs with operators who need DMR interoperability and want documented weather protection, accepting lower power output as a tradeoff. Buy the Radtel unless DMR digital mode is a requirement for your local repeater network.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious SOTA or POTA portable operator
It costs less and includes APRS and GPS, which suit summit and field activations well.
RT-880GARES member needing position reporting
Built-in APRS and GPS support position reporting for served-agency and net work without extra gear.
RT-880GHams wanting to try DMR on a budget
It adds DMR digital operation and a 3000-channel memory, which the Radtel does not offer.
MD-UV390Wet or dusty outdoor operator
Its IP67 rating protects against water and dust better than the Radtel's unrated build.
MD-UV390Lightweight hiker prioritizing carry weight
At 5W it is a modest radio, but it is the better choice here only if weight matters less than digital modes.
MD-UV390Operator wanting maximum transmit power
At 10W it delivers twice the transmit power of the 5W TYT for longer reach on analog repeaters.
RT-880G
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G
- 19% cheaper ($97.50 vs $120.99)
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 9% more battery (2400 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,024)
- Has DMR digital mode
- IP67 water resistance
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-880GPICK
$97.50 on AmazonTYT MD-UV390
$120.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads