Baofeng UV-28 vs Baofeng UV-21 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-28 and Baofeng UV-21? 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-28Baofeng UV-21
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-28Baofeng UV-21
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm7/33.4/2
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v8.4 v
Rated mAh2500 mAh mAh
Tested mAh1820 mAh1460 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant350 mm327 mm
Width51 mm63 mm
Thickness w/clip63 mm54 mm
Weight380 g300 g
Color ScreenYesYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$49$25
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Receiver Sensitivity 2m/70cm130.5dBm / 131dBm-
Rating by PriceCB
Rating OverallCC
Conclusions

I really like the idea of this radio, I mean who wouldn’t like a radio that fits in your hand really well, has good power output, really nice feeling buttons, and a large battery? Unfortunately, with some of the worst spurious emissions I have seen in tests yet, I think I might look elsewhere.

A bunch of spurious emissions in a $15 UV-5R is one thing, in a $45 Baofeng UV-28 which is supposed to be a new and improved model is an entirely different story. I think there is better out there for your money.

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.