RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026AnyTone AT-D890UV vs Retevis A3
Our pick
AnyTone AT-D890UV$309.00
The AnyTone AT-D890UV is the clear winner if you need DMR capability, otherwise the choice depends on your budget constraints.
The single most important differentiator is that the AT-D890UV supports DMR digital mode while the Retevis A3 does not. Both radios are similar in weight and lack IP ratings, GPS, APRS, Bluetooth, and D-STAR or C4FM support. We do not have TX power figures for either radio. Neither radio supports CHIRP programming.
Owners report that the AT-D890UV averages 4.8 out of 5 across 5 Amazon reviews, while the A3 averages 3.6 out of 5 across 31 reviews. The AT-D890UV costs $299 versus $110 for the A3, making the price difference substantial.
Buy the AnyTone AT-D890UV if you operate on DMR networks and want what owners report as strong satisfaction. Buy the Retevis A3 if you need an affordable analog-only handheld and can work within a tighter budget, understanding that the larger owner sample reports lower average satisfaction.
For most users, the AT-D890UV's DMR support justifies its premium price if digital modes matter to your operations. If you operate purely analog, the A3 offers significant savings, though budget should not be your only consideration.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensed technician
It costs considerably less and covers VHF, UHF, and 6m for learning repeater and local simplex use.
A3NOAA weather monitoring and local repeater user
Its basic analog VHF and UHF coverage handles NOAA weather channels and repeaters without the complexity of digital modes.
A3Emergency communications net volunteer (ARES)
Its DMR support and large memory suit ARES nets and regional talk groups that rely on digital traffic.
AT-D890UVOperator using DMR talk groups across a region
It offers a much higher feature score and 4000 channels for managing large regional DMR talk group lists.
AT-D890UVExperienced hobbyist seeking multi-mode capability
Its digital mode support provides the advanced functionality that experienced operators expect from a handheld.
AT-D890UVExperimenter wanting a low-cost spare handheld
Its lower price makes it a sensible backup or experimentation radio where digital features are not needed.
A3
Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D890UV
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- 24% more battery (3100 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 64% cheaper ($109.99 vs $309.00)
- 7g lighter (286g vs 293g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D890UVPICK
$309.00 on AmazonRetevis A3
$109.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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