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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus vs Y23UV-98PLUS

Our pick

Y23UV-98PLUS$96.85

The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner here. For half the price of the Wouxun, you're getting double the transmit power, built-in GPS and APRS capability, and a significantly higher overall rating that reflects real-world performance advantages. The Wouxun's 33/100 score versus the Y23's 72/100 isn't close.

The single most important differentiator is features per dollar. The Y23UV-98PLUS delivers APRS and GPS functionality that the Wouxun completely lacks, which opens up emergency communications, location sharing, and digital tracking capabilities that many modern operators expect. Combined with superior power output, you're getting substantially more radio for substantially less money.

The Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus might appeal to budget-conscious users seeking a basic dual-band radio with no frills, though even then the price-to-performance ratio is questionable. The Y23UV-98PLUS is the obvious choice for anyone wanting solid capabilities, better power delivery, and digital features without breaking the bank.

Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS unless you have a specific legacy requirement or inexplicable brand loyalty. This is one of those comparisons where the cheaper radio simply outperforms its more expensive competitor.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its higher power and APRS features offer more utility for new operators.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Technician needing simple, reliable analog comms

    The dedicated analog focus provides rock-solid performance for basic FM use.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Portable field use and camping operations

    The built-in GPS and higher transmit power are excellent for remote field work.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Experienced operator focused purely on monitoring

    Its streamlined design and focus on analog make it ideal for airband monitoring.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Beginner wanting basic tracking and features

    The inclusion of APRS and GPS adds valuable tracking capabilities right away.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Operator prioritizing maximum simplicity and reliability

    Its analog-only nature reduces complexity and potential points of failure.

    KG-UV9D Plus

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS

  • 46% cheaper ($96.85 vs $179.99)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Wouxun KG-UV9D PlusSpecY23UV-98PLUS
$179.99
Price
$96.85
35
Overall Score
70
2.0× difference
5.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
2.0× difference
999
Memory Channels
1024
+2% for winner
Battery
2400 mAh
Display
TFT Color
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
Black
Color
Standard
7 Volts
Voltage
7.38 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
KG UV9D Plus
Model Number
Y23UV-98PLUS
136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
RM
Compatible Devices
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater
Additional Features
1024 Chlannels, AM FM SSB R Eeception, Adjustable Receiver Sensitivity, Cross Band Repeater, GPS/APRS
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
1.97"D x 3.94"W x 5.12"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

$179.99 on Amazon

Y23UV-98PLUSPICK

$96.85 on Amazon

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