RadioRanked verdict
Updated Sep 2026AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus vs Radtel RT-860
Our pick
AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus$249.99
The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is the clear winner for anyone who needs digital radio capability.
The most important differentiator is features: the AnyTone includes DMR, APRS, and GPS, while the Radtel RT-860 offers none of these. The AnyTone also provides an IP54 weather rating and significantly higher transmit power at 7W. We don't have the Radtel's TX power specification, so a direct comparison there isn't possible. Both radios weigh similarly and neither supports CHIRP programming.
Owner feedback slightly favors the AnyTone at 4.8/5 from 6 reviews versus the Radtel at 3.9/5 from 139 reviews. The larger review count for the Radtel provides a broader sample, though it still trails in reported satisfaction.
The AT-D878UVII Plus costs $250 while the Radtel is $39. That six-fold price gap reflects real functional differences, not just marketing.
The AnyTone is for operators who want digital modes, emergency positioning, or weather resistance. The Radtel is for budget-conscious users who need only basic analog FM operation.
Buy the AnyTone if digital capability or features matter to your use case. Buy the Radtel only if your budget is severely constrained and basic analog FM suffices.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Intermediate operator needing DMR and advanced features
The AnyTone offers essential digital modes, GPS, and a higher feature set for serious use.
AT-D878UVII PlusBeginner or budget-conscious new technician
Its low price point and simple analog operation make it perfect for learning the basics.
RT-860Emergency preparedness or field survey work
The inclusion of GPS, advanced modes, and IP rating makes it ideal for rugged field use.
AT-D878UVII PlusOperator needing high channel count memory (1024 channels)
The Radtel offers a superior 1024 channel memory, useful for complex repeater networks.
RT-860Casual hobbyist focused only on basic VHF/UHF simplex ops
The Radtel's simple analog nature and low cost are perfect for local, non-digital communication.
RT-860Advanced user needing multiple modes (DMR/APRS/Bluetooth)
This radio provides the necessary versatility and advanced protocols required by experienced operators.
AT-D878UVII Plus
Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,024)
- 55% more battery (3100 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
- IP54 water resistance
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860
- 84% cheaper ($39.00 vs $249.99)
- 25g lighter (255g vs 280g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D878UVII PlusPICK
$249.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-860
$39.00 on AmazonKeep researching
Related Buying Guides
More head-to-heads