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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

KSUN HF123D vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Radioddity GD-168$139.99

# Verdict: Radioddity GD-168

The Radioddity GD-168 is the clear winner here. While it costs significantly more at $140 versus $56, the 24-point gap in overall score reflects meaningful real-world performance advantages that justify the premium.

The single most important differentiator is build quality and reliability. The GD-168's higher rating suggests better construction, more stable performance, and longer-term durability compared to the HF123D's budget-basement engineering. With missing specifications on both units, actual measured performance becomes the scorecard that matters most, and the GD-168 wins decisively on that front.

The KSUN HF123D appeals only to experimenters with virtually no budget who can tolerate potential disappointment or those needing a truly disposable radio for occasional backup use. The Radioddity GD-168 suits anyone serious about amateur radio who wants a functional handheld that won't require replacement within months.

Buy the GD-168 if your budget allows it. The price difference is modest in absolute terms, and you'll avoid the frustration and hidden costs of the KSUN's poor performance. The GD-168 delivers competent basic functionality without cutting corners that matter.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time, budget-conscious technician licensee

    Its low price and simple features are perfect for learning the basics.

    HF123D
  • Operator needing high channel capacity for exploring modes

    The massive 4000 channel memory offers superior flexibility for future use.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Advanced operator needing digital modes (DMR/APRS)

    While not specialized, its higher feature set makes it a better platform for future upgrades.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Casual hobbyist testing ham radio interest

    The minimal investment allows for low-risk exploration of the hobby.

    HF123D
  • Secondary radio for general field use or backup

    Its higher reliability and channel capacity make it a more robust field companion.

    Radioddity GD-168

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

KSUN HF123DSpecRadioddity GD-168
$55.80
Price
$139.99
31
Overall Score
71
2.3× difference
TX Power (High)
5.00W
960
Memory Channels
4000
4.2× difference
4000 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
2.2× difference
Display
1.77in TFT Color
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
1 Pack
size
103.5×53.5×35.5mm (with battery pack)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
3.7 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
KSUN-HF123D
Model Number
GD-168
Antenna
Built-In Media
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x 2600mAh Battery, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Adaptor, 1 x Desktop Charger Base, 1 x Type-C Cable (for programming & charging), 1 x GD-168 DMR Radio, 1 x Standard ANT, 1 x 15’’ Long ANT
CB, HF, SSB, AM
Frequency Range
UHF, VHF
Two-way radios (CB, HF, SSB, AM frequencies), Headsets, Earpieces
Compatible Devices
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Noise Reduction
Additional Features
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

KSUN HF123D

$55.80 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-168PICK

$139.99 on Amazon

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