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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

APX-8000 vs Radtel RT-880

Our pick

Radtel RT-880$74.00

The Radtel RT-880 is the clear winner here. Despite having an unknown transmit power specification, it scores 10 points higher overall and costs $56 less, making it the better value proposition by nearly every measure.

The single most important differentiator is price-to-performance ratio. The RT-880 delivers superior ratings at half the cost of the APX-8000. Neither radio offers modern conveniences like DMR, APRS, or GPS, and both lack CHIRP support and documented weight specifications, suggesting these are budget-oriented alternatives without current industry standards.

The APX-8000 appeals only to buyers who specifically need its 12W transmit power for range-critical operations and have already verified it meets their niche requirements. The RT-880 should be purchased by cost-conscious operators who want better overall performance without paying a premium for uncertain benefits.

If you're shopping in this price range, go with the Radtel RT-880. It's the smarter choice unless you have specific technical needs that only the APX-8000 addresses. Before either purchase, contact manufacturers for the missing specifications—weight and the RT-880's transmit power are essential for informed decisions.

Runner-up
APX-8000
APX-8000

$129.99

Winner
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner needing simple, reliable operation

    Its higher beginner score and basic features make it easier for new operators to learn.

    APX-8000
  • Operator needing maximum channel capacity

    The vastly superior 1024 channel memory is ideal for covering multiple regions.

    RT-880
  • Experienced operator prioritizing range and power

    The higher transmit power and focused design support long-distance simplex communication.

    APX-8000
  • Budget-conscious user covering multiple areas

    It offers a high channel count and low price point, maximizing value for the dollar.

    RT-880
  • Portable operator needing balanced performance

    The combination of good portability and reliable power makes it excellent for field use.

    APX-8000

Reasons to choose APX-8000

  • 267% more battery (8800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 43% cheaper ($74.00 vs $129.99)
  • 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

APX-8000SpecRadtel RT-880
$129.99
Price
$74.00
39
Overall Score
52
+33% for winner
12.00W
TX Power (High)
128
Memory Channels
1024
7.7× difference
8800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
3.7× difference
Color LCD
Display
TFT Color
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Green
color
Standard
Green
Color
Standard
APX-8000
Model Number
RT-880
Two-way radios operating on VHF (136.025-173.975 MHz) and UHF (406.125-469.125 MHz) frequencies, compatible headsets, earpieces, and external antennas
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-880PICK

$74.00 on Amazon

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