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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

BTECH UV-5X3 vs Retevis HA1UV

Our pick

Retevis HA1UV$69.99

The Retevis HA1UV edges out the BTECH UV-5X3 as the better choice for most users. Both radios share identical feature sets across digital modes and connectivity, with no transmit power data available for either. The decisive differentiator is weather resistance: the HA1UV carries an IP67 rating, making it suitable for wet environments, while the UV-5X3 has no published rating. The UV-5X3 costs eleven dollars less and weighs 110 grams less, which matters if portability and budget drive your decision. Owners report favorably on both radios, the HA1UV at 4.6 out of 5 stars from 47 reviews and the UV-5X3 at 4.4 out of 5 from 2,166 reviews, though the UV-5X3's much larger review pool gives broader insight into real-world performance. Buy the UV-5X3 if you need a lightweight, budget-conscious radio for dry conditions. Buy the HA1UV if you operate outdoors or near water and want proven weather protection. The choice hinges on whether you need that IP67 rating and can accept the extra weight and cost.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained first-time licensee buying a starter radio

    It costs less and covers VHF, UHF, and 1.25m, so it stretches a tight starter budget further.

    UV-5X3
  • Technician operator needing 1.25m band access

    It includes the 1.25m band, which the Retevis HA1UV does not offer.

    UV-5X3
  • Lightweight portable operator hiking local repeaters

    At 227g it is considerably lighter than the Retevis, easing carry on long outings.

    UV-5X3
  • Outdoor user needing a rugged, weather-resistant handheld

    Its IP67 rating protects it against dust and water immersion, which the BTECH lacks.

    HA1UV
  • Local repeater user preferring the highest overall rating

    It earns a higher overall rating and a stronger beginner score for everyday local repeater work.

    HA1UV

Reasons to choose BTECH UV-5X3

  • 110g lighter (227g vs 337g)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis HA1UV

  • 2x more memory channels (256 vs 128)
  • 87% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1500 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display
  • IP67 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

BTECH UV-5X3SpecRetevis HA1UV
—
Price
$69.99
46
Overall Score
59
+28% for winner
128
Memory Channels
256
2.0× difference
227g
Weight
337g
+49% difference
1500 mAh
Battery
2800 mAh
+85% for winner
—
Display
Color LCD
—
IP Rating
IP67
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
5 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
Digital
Tuner Type
U/V band
UV-5X3
Model Number
HA1UV
Earpiece, battery, charger, UV-5X3, manual, 220 antenn, dual band antenna
Built-In Media
1 x 2800mAh lithium_ion battery, 1 x Belt clip & Hand strap, 1 x Data cable, 1 x HA1UV two way radio, 1 x Type-C charging cable & Charging base
220 mhz
Frequency Range
U/V band
UV-5X3
Mfr Part Number
FA9244B-J9131P-C9034A
IPX-" // The 'X' indicates that we do not have information about solid particle protection, and the second digit is not provided due to insufficient information about the level of water protection.
Waterproof Rating
IP67
UV-5R and BF-F8HP accessories
Compatible Devices
Repeater, Speaker, two way radio with the same frequency and the same CTCSS/DCS
Rechargable
Additional Features
Handheld Ham Radio with Cable;IP67 waterproof;NOAA Weather Receiver;Type-C Rechargeable;VFO
1 Year through Baofeng Tech
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
1.26"D x 2.28"W x 4.33"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
2.36"D x 8.07"W x 10.03"H

Made your choice?

BTECH UV-5X3

Search on Amazon

Retevis HA1UVPICK

$69.99 on Amazon

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