Baofeng UV-21 vs Baofeng UV-25 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-21 and Baofeng UV-25? 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.

FeatureBaofeng UV-21Baofeng UV-25
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-21Baofeng UV-25
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.4/29/7
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts8.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh mAh2800 mAh
Tested mAh1460 mAh4860 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant327 mm510 mm
Width63 mm71 mm
Thickness w/clip54 mm56 mm
Weight300 g675 g
Color ScreenYesYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$25$43
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Rating by PriceAA
Rating OverallAC
Rating ErgonomicsA-
Conclusions

Do I recommend this radio? Sure. It provides a good, solid performing set of electronics housed in a comfortable exterior shell. It even comes with an antenna that isn’t complete trash. Would I recommend the Baofeng UV-21, UV-21R or UV-21 Pro? It’s a toss-up between the 21 and 21r as I am just not seeing a real difference, and I would stay away from the extra cost of the 21 Pro unless I really needed GPS in my car, in my phone, and in my radio.

So would I recommend the radio? Sure! The power output is amazing, the screen is beautiful, the buttons are excellent, and I love that stupid gaudy knob at the top. For the price, you are getting a very capable basic radio with a battery that should keep you going for days, lol.

The downside is that it weighs a ton and has a garbage antenna.

You could get a better deal on something like the Baofeng 5RH Pro, which also has GPS and costs less. I still think I would take this one if just for the fun factor.