Baofeng UV-32 vs Baofeng UV-28 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng UV-32 and Baofeng UV-28? 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-32Baofeng UV-28
Image
Radio NameBaofeng UV-32Baofeng UV-28
Bands2m, 1.25m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm5/37/3
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2500 mAh2500 mAh
Tested mAh2590 mAh1820 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant352 mm350 mm
Width67 mm51 mm
Thickness w/clipN/A mm63 mm
Weight390 g380 g
Color ScreenYesYes
GPSYesNo
USB-C ChargingYesYes
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$39$49
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Receiver Sensitivity 2m/70cm134/132130.5dBm / 131dBm
Value ScoreCF
Performance ScoreDF
Ergonomics ScoreCB
Conclusions

Even though this large type of radio is not really something I’m into, I had high hopes for a radio sharing firmware with a DMR version, having GNSS, and having a large battery for extended use. Unfortunately the Baofeng UV-32 falls short. Would I recommend the radio? No. I don’t like the holster, the lack of a belt clip, the plastic ring around the PTT button, the terrible antenna, for the ridiculous amount of spurious emissions robbing power and shortening the life of the electronics.

I’m sorry but nice colors, including transparent, and a battery that actually tests above its rating, are not enough to even start getting past its shortcomings. It seems like lately all the radios I reviewed I would not recommend. I really hope that this is not a new trend.

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.