RadioRanked verdict
Updated Sep 2026ABBREE AR-30W vs Retevis A3
Our pick
ABBREE AR-30W$99.96
The AR-30W comes out ahead based on better listed specifications for the price. Both radios lack published transmit power figures and neither supports DMR or APRS, making the specs effectively tied on core features. The decisive difference is GPS—the AR-30W includes it while the A3 doesn't. At nearly identical prices, this is a meaningful advantage for users wanting position tracking or emergency location capabilities. The AR-30W also scores significantly higher on RadioRanked's composite metric, which reflects better specifications relative to cost.
Owner feedback slightly favors the AR-30W. Buyers report 4.0 out of 5 stars across 7 Amazon reviews, compared to 3.6 stars from 31 reviews for the A3. While the A3 has more reviews, the AR-30W's higher rating represents what current owners report about their experience.
The AR-30W is the better choice for anyone valuing GPS functionality or wanting better listed specs at the same price point. The A3 might appeal only if you specifically prefer its form factor or have other unstated requirements, though the evidence doesn't support that case here.
Buy the AR-30W unless you have specific reasons favoring the A3 that aren't reflected in these specifications.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee needing basic features
The AR-30W offers more features and a higher beginner score for new operators.
ABBREE AR-30WExtreme budget-conscious experimenter
The A3 is significantly cheaper and provides basic multi-band coverage for minimal cost.
A3Portable operations (POTA/SOTA)
Its superior features and portability score make it better for varied outdoor deployments.
ABBREE AR-30WBasic NOAA monitoring and repeater use
The A3's focus on analog VHF/UHF is perfect for dedicated monitoring applications.
A3Operators needing vehicle/RV communication
The AR-30W is explicitly designed for vehicle installations and coordinated net ops.
ABBREE AR-30W
Reasons to choose ABBREE AR-30W
- 7% cheaper ($99.96 vs $107.99)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 100% more memory channels (999 vs 500)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
ABBREE AR-30WPICK
$99.96 on AmazonRetevis A3
$107.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

