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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Sep 2026

AnyTone AT-D578UVIII PLUS vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

AnyTone AT-D578UVIII PLUS$494.99

The AnyTone AT-D578UVIII PLUS is the clear winner for serious amateur radio operators, though it depends on your budget and operational needs.

The most important differentiator is feature depth. The AnyTone delivers DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities in a single 50-watt mobile unit, making it a comprehensive platform for modern digital modes. The Retevis RT95 is essentially an analog-only radio with CHIRP support, positioning it as a basic FM transceiver without advanced functionality.

The AnyTone suits operators who want flexibility across multiple modes, need GPS integration for mobile operations, or are invested in DMR networks. Its higher overall score reflects this capability advantage. The Retevis RT95 makes sense for budget-conscious newcomers, backup radio needs, or operators who strictly work analog FM and value simplicity over features.

At nearly 4x the price, the AnyTone demands justification, but the feature gap is substantial. If you plan to explore digital modes or need APRS capability, the AT-D578UVIII PLUS delivers significantly more value despite the higher entry cost. The RT95 works fine as an entry point, but you'll likely outgrow it quickly as your hobby develops.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Advanced DMR/APRS enthusiast

    It offers integrated GPS, APRS, and high TX power for advanced digital operations.

    AT-D578UVIII PLUS
  • New budget-conscious beginner operator

    The low price point and simple dual-band functionality make it an excellent starting radio.

    Retevis RT95
  • Professional cross-band repeater user

    Its tri-band capability (VHF, UHF, 1.25m) ensures maximum coverage versatility.

    AT-D578UVIII PLUS
  • Operator needing simple home base station

    It provides sufficient dual-band functionality without the complexity of advanced features.

    Retevis RT95
  • Experienced operator upgrading from analog

    The inclusion of DMR and APRS modes allows for seamless digital expansion.

    AT-D578UVIII PLUS

Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D578UVIII PLUS

  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • 73% cheaper ($132.99 vs $494.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D578UVIII PLUSSpecRetevis RT95
$494.99
Price
$132.99
75
Overall Score
58
+30% for winner
50.00W
TX Power (High)
Memory Channels
200
Weight
645g
Display
TFT Color
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
11

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D578UVIII PLUSPICK

$494.99 on Amazon

Retevis RT95

$132.99 on Amazon

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