RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026BTECH UV-PRO vs Retevis RA89
Our pick
BTECH UV-PRO$197.89
The BTECH UV-PRO is the clear winner for most users, despite its significantly higher price point. The decisive factor is feature set: the UV-PRO includes APRS and GPS capabilities that the RA89 completely lacks, making it substantially more capable for modern amateur radio activities like location tracking and emergency beacon deployment. The UV-PRO's higher overall score of 67 versus 58 reflects this meaningful advantage.
The RA89 makes sense for budget-conscious operators who need a basic no-frills handheld for local VHF/UHF communication and appreciate CHIRP compatibility for easy programming. Buy the UV-PRO if you want modern features, GPS integration, and are willing to invest three times the cost for a genuinely more capable radio.
For most amateurs, the UV-PRO's extra capabilities justify its price, particularly if APRS or GPS tracking matters to your operations. However, the RA89 remains a practical choice if your needs are strictly local repeater access and your budget is tight. The UV-PRO wins this comparison decisively.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee needing an easy starter radio
Its simpler controls and higher beginner score make it the more approachable first handheld for new operators.
Retevis RA89Budget-constrained buyer wanting a capable VHF and UHF handheld
It costs considerably less while still covering both VHF and UHF with 200 memory channels.
Retevis RA89Emergency preparedness kit needing a weather-resistant backup
Its IP68 rating offers a slightly higher water and dust protection level for a stored backup radio.
Retevis RA89Operator wanting APRS position reporting in the field
Built-in APRS and GPS let it report location, which the other radio cannot do.
UV-PROTrail user or portable operator needing rugged outdoor deployment
Its IP67 rating and GPS suit outdoor deployments where position data adds real value.
UV-PROLicensed technician upgrading from a basic handheld
Its higher feature score and Bluetooth support give experienced operators more capability than the basic model.
UV-PRO
Reasons to choose BTECH UV-PRO
- 4% more battery (2600 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis RA89
- 11% more memory channels (200 vs 180)
- 17g lighter (295g vs 312g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
BTECH UV-PROPICK
$197.89 on AmazonRetevis RA89
Search on AmazonMore head-to-heads