RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026TIDRADIO TD-H3 vs TYT MD-UV390
Our pick
TIDRADIO TD-H3$31.99
The TD-H3 is the clear winner for budget-conscious operators who prioritize value. The single most important differentiator is price: at $32 versus $121, the TD-H3 costs roughly one-third as much while delivering a higher composite score of 68 to the MD-UV390's 61. Owners report 4.4 out of 5 stars across 534 Amazon reviews for the TD-H3, compared to 4.0 stars from 142 reviews for the MD-UV390.
The MD-UV390 offers DMR capability and an IP67 weather rating, features the TD-H3 lacks. However, we do not have the MD-UV390's weight or TX power specification for the TD-H3, so a complete feature comparison is limited by missing data. The TD-H3 supports CHIRP programming and Bluetooth, while the MD-UV390 does not list CHIRP support.
The TD-H3 suits new operators or those seeking an affordable entry point with strong owner satisfaction. The MD-UV390 appeals to operators specifically requiring DMR digital mode support or weatherproof construction for field use. For most users, the TD-H3's combination of low cost and higher owner rating makes it the more practical choice.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
It costs far less and handles the VHF and UHF bands beginners use most, making it a low-risk starting point.
TD-H3Buyer wanting to try DMR digital voice
It supports DMR, which the TIDRADIO lacks, so it is the only option here for digital voice experimentation.
MD-UV390Hiker doing wet or dusty field outings
Its IP67 rating protects against water and dust, which matters on rough outdoor trips.
MD-UV390Hobbyist who programs large codeplugs
With 3000 channels and a higher feature score, it suits operators managing extensive channel lists.
MD-UV390Scanner and GMRS monitoring user
Its lower price and wide band coverage make it a practical choice for monitoring without a large outlay.
TD-H3Buyer prioritizing lightweight portability
At 245 grams it is noticeably lighter to carry on long portable operations than the alternative.
TD-H3
Reasons to choose TIDRADIO TD-H3
- 74% cheaper ($31.99 vs $120.99)
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390
- 15x more memory channels (3,000 vs 199)
- Has DMR digital mode
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
TIDRADIO TD-H3PICK
$31.99 on AmazonTYT MD-UV390
$120.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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