RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-880G vs TYT TH-UV88
Our pick
Radtel RT-880G$97.50
The Radtel RT-880G is the clear winner for most buyers.
The most important differentiator is transmission power: the Radtel delivers 10W versus the TYT's 5W, doubling your range and coverage. The Radtel also includes GPS and APRS for location tracking and messaging, features the TYT lacks entirely. The Radtel costs a known $98 with strong owner feedback (4.4 out of 5 from 152 reviews), while the TYT's price is unknown and it has only a single Amazon review to draw from. Both lack an IP rating and digital mode support.
The TYT's advantage is CHIRP compatibility for easier programming, but this alone does not justify choosing a radio with half the power and no location features.
Buy the Radtel RT-880G if you want practical range, navigation capability, and proven owner satisfaction at a clear price point. Buy the TYT TH-UV88 only if CHIRP programming is essential to your workflow and you do not need GPS or higher transmit power, though the single review provides minimal buyer confidence.
Go with the Radtel. It delivers more features, more power, and far better evidence of owner satisfaction.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensed Technician wanting simple controls
A simpler feature set and gentler learning curve make it the easier starting point for new operators.
TH-UV88Summits on the air and park activators
Higher 10W output, APRS, and GPS suit portable activators who want position reporting and extra reach.
RT-880GARES volunteers needing field position reporting
APRS and GPS support position reporting, and 1024 channels cover multi-group emergency nets.
RT-880GBudget-minded buyer wanting the most capability
Stronger value for the money, with GPS, APRS, and 10W output that the other radio lacks.
RT-880GClub backup or loaner radio buyer
Its smaller memory and 5W output suit casual monitoring and a secondary radio kept as a spare.
TH-UV88
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 200)
- 71% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Reasons to choose TYT TH-UV88
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-880GPICK
$97.50 on AmazonTYT TH-UV88
Search on AmazonMore head-to-heads