RR VerdictUpdated Jun 2026
AnyTone AT-D878UV vs Radtel RT-730
The AnyTone AT-D878UV is the clear winner for serious amateur radio operators. While the Radtel RT-730 offers exceptional value at under forty dollars, these are fundamentally different radios serving different needs.
The single most important differentiator is digital capability. The AT-D878UV supports DMR, APRS, and GPS, making it suitable for modern digital voice networks and emergency communication. The RT-730 is analog-only, limiting its utility as radio infrastructure continues its digital evolution.
The AT-D878UV's higher overall score of 83 versus 63 reflects this capability gap. Yes, the RT-730 has more transmit power and CHIRP support, but power means little without the modes to use it effectively. The 280-gram weight is reasonable for its feature set.
The Radtel RT-730 works best as a budget backup radio or for operators exclusively on analog frequencies who need emergency preparedness on a tight budget. The AnyTone AT-D878UV is the choice for anyone serious about amateur radio, willing to invest in modern digital modes and features that will remain relevant long-term.
Buy the AnyTone. The RT-730 is a spare, not a primary radio.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Enthusiast needing DMR and APRS
The AT-D878UV offers essential DMR and APRS features for advanced operation.
AT-D878UVNew or budget-conscious first-time ham
The RT-730 provides reliable, high-power output at a very low entry cost.
RT-730Portable operations prioritizing features
Its comprehensive feature set, including GPS and Bluetooth, supports complex field deployments.
AT-D878UVTechnician needing reliable frequency flexibility
The CHIRP support on the RT-730 allows for versatile and reliable frequency programming.
RT-730Experienced operator upgrading from basic radio
The AT-D878UV provides advanced digital modes and a higher feature count.
AT-D878UV
Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D878UV
- 20x more memory channels (4,000 vs 199)
- 24% more battery (3100 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730
- 84% cheaper ($39.00 vs $249.99)
- 43% more TX power (10W vs 7W)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec-by-spec breakdown
AnyTone AT-D878UVSpecRadtel RT-730
$249.99
Price
$39.00
83
Overall Score
63
+32% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+43% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
199
20.0× difference
280g
Weight
—
3100 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+23% for winner
Color TFT
Display
LCD
Authorized
FCC Authorization
Not Found
Black
color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
643451597585
UPC
016392405248
Black
Color
1 PCS + Prog Cable
5 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
AT-D878UVII Plus
Model Number
RT-730
antenna, battery pack, programming cable, belt clip, wrist strap, user manual, and warranty card.
Built-In Media
1 RT-730 Ham Radio, 1xProgramming Cable,1x 2500mAh Li-ion Battery Pack, 1x Standard Long Antenna, 1x Desktop charger, 1x belt clip, 1x user manual
0643451597585
Mfr Part Number
RT-730
Two-way radios operating on VHF (136-174MHz) and UHF (400-480MHz) frequencies with 4FSK digital modulation, and standard two-way radio accessories
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on the same frequency band, compatible accessories like headsets, earpieces, or external antennas, and computers for programming.
Battery Strength Indicator
Additional Features
16-630Mhz Receiver, Long Range, High quality resolution LCD, Type C charging, Full band radio am/fm/air/cb/ham/noaa/short wave receiver
DMR
Connectivity Protocol
UHF, VHF
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D878UVPICK
$249.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-730
$39.00 on Amazon