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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

KSUN HF123D vs Radioddity GD-88

Our pick

Radioddity GD-88$176.99

The Radioddity GD-88 is the clear winner for most users. While it costs nearly three times as much as the KSUN HF123D, you're getting substantially more radio for your money, as evidenced by the 43-point gap in overall scores.

The single most important differentiator is feature set. The GD-88 includes DMR digital mode, APRS capability, and integrated GPS—tools that serious hobbyists rely on. The HF123D appears to be a bare-bones analog-only radio with minimal functionality and a concerning lack of published specifications, which itself is a red flag.

The KSUN HF123D is only worth considering if you're an absolute budget-constrained beginner who wants to test the waters before investing further, and even then, the vague specs and low score suggest there may be better options in that price range. The Radioddity GD-88 should be purchased by anyone planning to do more than casual simplex ragchewing, as the digital modes and GPS justify the investment.

We recommend the Radioddity GD-88 unless your budget is severely limited and you have no plans to use modern amateur radio features.

Runner-up
KSUN HF123D

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner learning local VHF/UHF

    Its low cost and simple analog features make it perfect for starting out.

    HF123D
  • Technician needing DMR and APRS digital modes

    The GD-88 supports essential digital modes like DMR and APRS.

    GD-88
  • Budget-conscious hobbyist testing ham radio interest

    The significantly lower price point minimizes risk for new operators.

    HF123D
  • Experienced operator needing advanced digital features

    It offers superior features like GPS and 200 channels for advanced use.

    GD-88
  • Portable field use for SOTA or POTA activations

    Its comprehensive feature set and reliability make it better for field deployments.

    GD-88

Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D

  • 68% cheaper ($55.80 vs $176.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (960 vs 200)
  • 33% more battery (4000 mAh vs 3000 mAh)

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-88

  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • IP54 water resistance
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

KSUN HF123DSpecRadioddity GD-88
$55.80
Price
$176.99
31
Overall Score
67
2.2× difference
960
Memory Channels
200
4.8× difference
4000 mAh
Battery
3000 mAh
+33% for winner
IP Rating
IP54
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
black
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
KSUN-HF123D
Model Number
GD 88
Antenna
Built-In Media
3000mAh lithium-ion battery, programming cable
Two-way radios (CB, HF, SSB, AM frequencies), Headsets, Earpieces
Compatible Devices
[Other two-way radios on VHF/UHF bands & accessories with compatible connectors]
Noise Reduction
Additional Features
Uhf

Made your choice?

KSUN HF123D

$55.80 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-88PICK

$176.99 on Amazon

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