RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026KSUN HF123D vs Radioddity GD-168
Our pick
Radioddity GD-168$139.99
The Radioddity GD-168 is the clear winner for most amateur radio users.
The most important differentiator is capability. The GD-168 offers dual-mode digital (DMR and APRS), while the HF123D lacks these features entirely. We don't have TX power or weight data for the HF123D, so we cannot make direct performance comparisons on those fronts. What we can measure is features per dollar, and the GD-168 delivers substantially better specified capabilities at a reasonable price premium.
Owner feedback supports this gap. The GD-168 owners rate it 4.2 out of 5 across 12 reviews, while HF123D owners report 3.4 out of 5 across 13 reviews. These are limited samples but point in the same direction.
The HF123D makes sense only if your budget is genuinely constrained to under $60 and you need absolute basics with no digital modes. For anyone planning to use DMR repeaters, APRS, or wanting a radio that grows with their interests, the GD-168's $130 price tag returns far more capability and owner satisfaction. Buy the HF123D only if cost trumps all other considerations. Buy the GD-168 if you want a functional modern handheld.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Brand-new Technician licensee learning local repeaters
Its simple analog UHF and VHF operation keeps the first radio easy to learn while using local repeaters.
HF123DBudget-constrained buyer wanting the lowest entry cost
It costs substantially less, making it the better pick for someone testing ham radio interest without much spending.
HF123DTechnician wanting to move into DMR digital voice
It supports DMR and APRS, which the simpler analog-only radio cannot handle.
Radioddity GD-168Operator wanting APRS position reporting and a color screen
It includes APRS and a color display, along with a higher features score than the alternative.
Radioddity GD-168Operator needing thousands of channels and contact storage
Its 4000-channel memory far exceeds the alternative's storage for large channel and contact lists.
Radioddity GD-168Hobbyist needing a lightweight, pocketable everyday radio
It has a higher portability score, so it suits carrying around more than the heavier 220g alternative.
HF123D
Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D
- 60% cheaper ($55.80 vs $139.99)
- 122% more battery (4000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 960)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
KSUN HF123D
$55.80 on AmazonRadioddity GD-168PICK
$139.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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