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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

AnyTone AT-D890UV vs Radtel RT-860

Our pick

AnyTone AT-D890UV$309.00

The AnyTone AT-D890UV is the clear winner despite identical overall scores, primarily because it offers DMR capability at a price point that remains reasonable for the feature set. The single most important differentiator is DMR support, which enables digital mode operation, repeater access, and talkgroup functionality that the Radtel RT-860 simply cannot provide.

The AT-D890UV suits operators who want a modern dual-band handheld with digital capabilities and don't mind spending under three hundred dollars for future-proofing their radio experience. The Radtel RT-860 makes sense only for budget-constrained buyers who need basic analog FM reception and transmission, perhaps as a backup or throwaway radio.

Neither radio excels as a primary handheld given their middling scores, but the AT-D890UV justifies its higher price through actual feature differentiation. The RT-860's extreme affordability is its only advantage, but price alone doesn't overcome functional limitations when comparable digital alternatives exist at accessible price points. If you can afford the AT-D890UV, buy it. The RT-860 represents a false economy unless you're genuinely constrained to under forty dollars.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious new technician on a tight spend

    It costs far less than the alternative, making it a practical first radio while learning local repeater use.

    RT-860
  • Local repeater and simplex operator

    Analog VHF and UHF cover typical local repeater and simplex activity without the extra complexity of digital modes.

    RT-860
  • Emergency communications volunteer joining ARES nets

    Its DMR support and large channel memory suit regional talk groups and organized emergency nets.

    AT-D890UV
  • Experienced operator wanting digital and analog in one radio

    It offers a much higher feature score and multi-mode capability for advanced hobbyists.

    AT-D890UV
  • Field scanner needing high channel memory on a budget

    Its 1024-channel memory handles basic scanning and communication at a lower cost.

    RT-860
  • Portable operator prioritizing a lighter carry

    At 255g it is lighter than the alternative's 293g, which helps on long field outings.

    RT-860

Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D890UV

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,024)
  • 55% more battery (3100 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 88% cheaper ($36.99 vs $309.00)
  • 38g lighter (255g vs 293g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D890UVSpecRadtel RT-860
$309.00
Price
$36.99
49
Overall Score
45
+9% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
1024
3.8× difference
293g
Weight
255g
+15% difference
3100 mAh
Battery
2000 mAh
+54% for winner
Color LCD
Display
—
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Blue
color
With SW/MW Antennas
1
unitCount
1
Blue
Color
With SW/MW Antennas
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
AT-D890UV
Model Number
RT-860
Power Supply
Built-In Media
1x RT-860 Main unit, 1x 2000mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1X Desktop charger, 1x lanyard, 1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
UHF, VHF
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
AT-D890UV
Mfr Part Number
RT-860
Digital Display
Additional Features
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
1 Year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D890UVPICK

$309.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-860

$36.99 on Amazon

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