RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng GT-5R vs Retevis HA2
Our pick
Retevis HA2$89.99
The Baofeng GT-5R is the clear winner here. Despite scoring slightly lower overall at 69 versus 63, it offers substantially better value and practical utility for most users. At just $18, you're getting a radio that's roughly one-fifth the price of the HA2 while still delivering measurable 6W transmit power and full CHIRP compatibility for easy programming.
The single most important differentiator is price-to-performance ratio. The GT-5R's dramatically lower cost makes it the obvious choice for anyone building a budget radio collection or getting started in the hobby without significant investment.
The GT-5R suits newcomers and casual operators who want reliable FM simplex and repeater access without paying premium prices. The HA2 makes sense only if APRS capability is essential to your operations and you can justify spending five times more for that feature.
We recommend the GT-5R for virtually all amateur radio users shopping in this category. You'll save money, gain better overall functionality, and avoid being locked into a proprietary programming interface. The missing APRS on the GT-5R matters only if you actively use it.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
It costs less to start, letting a new operator learn VHF and UHF without a large upfront investment.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandClub loaner or emergency backup radio
Its low cost makes it easy to lend out or keep spare without worrying about losing an expensive handheld.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandField operator needing APRS and rugged gear
It offers APRS, Bluetooth, and an IP67 rating, which suit portable activations and rough outdoor use.
HA2Operator running regular nets with large channel lists
Its 1024-channel memory and higher feature set handle busy net schedules better than a 128-channel radio.
HA2Hobbyist wanting simple, lightweight simplex use
At 227g with 4W output, it is lighter and simpler for casual simplex conversations on foot.
GT-5R 5W Dual BandGeneral licensee wanting a feature-rich budget handheld
It delivers a higher feature score and more programmable options for operators who want more than basics.
HA2
Reasons to choose Baofeng GT-5R
- 176g lighter (227g vs 403g)
Reasons to choose Retevis HA2
- 8x more memory channels (1,024 vs 128)
- 56% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has Bluetooth
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng GT-5R
Search on AmazonRetevis HA2PICK
$89.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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