TYT MD-380 vs HamGeek APX-8000 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between TYT MD-380 and HamGeek APX-8000? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.

FeatureTYT MD-380HamGeek APX-8000
Image
Radio NameTYT MD-380HamGeek APX-8000
Bands70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm0/1.93.6/1.8
Digital ModeDMR-
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2000 mAh8800 mAh
Tested mAh mAh2760 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant207 mm350 mm
Width61 mm75 mm
Thickness w/clip53 mm65 mm
Weight289 g390 g
Color ScreenYesYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$100$130
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoNo
Rating by PriceCD
Rating OverallCC
Conclusions

If you are looking for a nice little radio that you are going to use primarily for DMR that won’t break the bank, the TYT MD-380 might just be your perfect little handheld. You could also go with the TYT MD-UV380 dual-band version if having 2m and 70cm bands appeals to you.

You might could find a TYT MD-380 used from someone who was upgrading to a dual-band radio, in which case you could get a real deal on a great little radio.

This is truly a unique radio and is actually pretty fun to use. I wish the performance lived up to the ascetics and added perks like the second screen, better speaker, better microphone, dual PTT, etc. I also wish it was programmable with CHIRP, alas it is not.

So would I recommend it? That depends. If you are looking for something different that fits in your hand really well and has some really cool extra features, and of course can drop $130 on it, then yes. For most people who want a radio that works really well and won’t break the bank? No.

Remember for the same money you could get something like the Yaesu FT-65 which, while not as cool and flashy, is a far better radio that will last a lot longer.