Baofeng UV-21 vs Baofeng UV-3R - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-21 and Baofeng UV-3R? 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.
| Feature | Baofeng UV-21 | Baofeng UV-3R |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Baofeng UV-21 | Baofeng UV-3R |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 3.4/2 | 1/.4 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 8.4 v | 3.7 v |
| Rated mAh | mAh | 1500 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1460 mAh | mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 327 mm | 174 mm |
| Width | 63 mm | 55 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 54 mm | 40 mm |
| Weight | 300 g | 147 g |
| Color Screen | Yes | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | - | LINK |
| Price | $25 | $45 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Value Score | A | F |
| Performance Score | A | D |
| Ergonomics Score | A | - |
| 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. | The Baofeng UV-3R Plus is a good little radio and while there is nothing particularly wrong with it, it is seriously outclassed by the UV-5R for the same amount of money. |