RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026TIDRADIO TD-H3 vs Y23UV-98PLUS
Our pick
Y23UV-98PLUS$78.28
The TD-H3 is the clear winner for budget-conscious operators who prioritize value and proven owner satisfaction. Its $32 price tag is less than half the Y23UV-98PLUS's cost, while delivering better listed specs for the money, reflected in its stronger owner rating of 4.4/5 from 534 reviews versus 4.0/5 from just 16 reviews. That large review count gives us genuine buyer confidence in the TD-H3's real-world performance.
The single most important differentiator is price paired with owner feedback. The Y23UV-98PLUS adds GPS and APRS capabilities that matter for specific use cases, but we don't have TX power data for the TD-H3, so we cannot definitively compare their transmission specs. We also lack weight information for the Y23UV-98PLUS. These gaps mean neither radio has a clear technical advantage on core performance metrics.
The TD-H3 suits any operator wanting reliable entry-level performance without breaking the bank, particularly those who can use CHIRP support. The Y23UV-98PLUS makes sense only if you specifically need GPS and APRS features that justify the $46 premium.
Get the TD-H3 unless advanced features like GPS tracking or APRS messaging are essential to your operations.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
Costs less than the alternative while covering VHF and UHF for a first handheld.
TD-H3APRS position tracking on the trail
Built-in APRS and GPS support gives it the edge for position reporting on the trail.
Y23UV-98PLUSCamping and off-grid portable operation
Its 10W transmit power and 1024-channel memory suit field operators who need range and options.
Y23UV-98PLUSGMRS and scanner monitoring on a budget
Covers GMRS and scanner listening at a lower cost than the APRS-equipped model.
TD-H3Hobbyist wanting CHIRP programming and Bluetooth
CHIRP support and Bluetooth give tinkerers more control than the GPS-focused model offers.
TD-H3
Reasons to choose TIDRADIO TD-H3
- 59% cheaper ($31.99 vs $78.28)
- 4% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 199)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
TIDRADIO TD-H3
$31.99 on AmazonY23UV-98PLUSPICK
$78.28 on AmazonKeep researching
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