RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026APX-8000 vs Radtel RT-920
Our pick
Radtel RT-920$47.04
The Radtel RT-920 is the clear winner for most buyers.
Both radios offer similar core specifications: neither supports DMR, APRS, or GPS, and we lack weight data for both. The decisive factor is price paired with owner feedback. The RT-920 costs $47 versus $130 for the APX-8000, yet owners report significantly higher satisfaction with the Radtel at 4.3 out of 5 stars across 119 reviews compared to 3.5 stars from 30 reviews for the APX. While the APX delivers 12 watts versus the RT-920's 8 watts, that modest power advantage doesn't justify the nearly three-fold price premium when buyers consistently rate the cheaper radio more favorably.
The RT-920's superior owner rating and lower price make it the primary differentiator here. The APX-8000 offers better listed specs for the money according to RadioRanked's composite score, but this doesn't translate to what actual owners are experiencing.
Buy the Radtel RT-920 if you want solid performance at a budget price with proven owner satisfaction. Choose the APX-8000 only if maximum transmit power is a specific requirement and you're willing to pay significantly more despite more modest owner feedback.
The Radtel RT-920 is the recommended choice for nearly all handheld radio buyers.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
Costs less and offers Bluetooth and 960 channels, suiting a newcomer exploring the hobby.
RT-920Operator needing long simplex range
The 12W output gives it more transmit reach than the 8W Radtel for simplex contacts.
APX-8000Listener tracking many frequencies
Its 960 memory channels make it better for keeping many frequencies organized.
RT-920Technician operator using local repeaters
Its 12W transmit power gives stronger repeater access from fringe locations.
APX-8000Shack companion or go-bag buyer
Bluetooth support and a lower price make it practical as a go-bag companion radio.
RT-920
Reasons to choose APX-8000
- 50% more TX power (12W vs 8W)
- 300% more battery (8800 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- 8x more memory channels (960 vs 128)
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
APX-8000
Search on AmazonRadtel RT-920PICK
$47.04 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

