RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026ABBREE AR-30W vs Retevis HA2
Our pick
Retevis HA2$89.99
The Retevis HA2 is the stronger choice here. Both radios cost $100, but the HA2 offers more complete specifications and considerably better owner feedback. The single most important differentiator is the HA2's IP67 weatherproofing rating versus no listed rating for the AR-30W, combined with the HA2's CHIRP compatibility for easier programming. The AR-30W adds GPS capability that the HA2 lacks, but we're missing its transmit power specification and weight, making a full comparison difficult.
Owners report 5.0 out of 5 stars on the HA2 across 2 reviews, while AR-30W owners gave 4.0 out of 5 across 7 reviews. The HA2's APRS support also enables digital location sharing, whereas the AR-30W's GPS capability requires manual coordination. The AR-30W's GPS might appeal to hikers who need position tracking, but without weatherproofing specs it's unclear how reliable it would be in the field.
Buy the HA2 if you want a ruggedized radio with documented weather resistance and digital messaging. Buy the AR-30W only if GPS is essential and you're willing to work around missing specifications. The Retevis HA2 is the safer recommendation for most users.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
It costs less and covers VHF and UHF with GPS, which suits a new operator building a first setup.
ABBREE AR-30WVehicle or RV installation builder
Its simpler feature set and lower cost make it a practical choice for a mobile net station in a truck or RV.
ABBREE AR-30WCoordinated net operator on a tight budget
It costs less than the alternative while still offering the 500 channels needed for organized net work.
ABBREE AR-30WPortable APRS activator
It includes APRS and Bluetooth, which are essential for field tracking and messaging during portable activations.
HA2Rugged outdoor field operator
Its IP67 rating handles dust, rain, and immersion far better than the alternative's unrated build.
HA2Hobbyist wanting CHIRP programming
CHIRP support and a larger 1024-channel memory give experienced users more programming flexibility.
HA2Weight-sensitive backpacker
For a hiker who counts every gram, the lighter handheld is the better carry choice for long days in the field.
ABBREE AR-30W
Reasons to choose ABBREE AR-30W
- 3% cheaper ($86.96 vs $89.99)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Retevis HA2
- 2x more memory channels (1,024 vs 500)
- Has APRS support
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
ABBREE AR-30W
$86.96 on AmazonRetevis HA2PICK
$89.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads