RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026KSUN HF123D vs Radtel RT-920
Our pick
Radtel RT-920$47.04
The Radtel RT-920 is the clear winner for most buyers.
The single most important differentiator is owner feedback. The RT-920 has a 4.3 out of 5 rating from 119 reviews, while the HF123D sits at 3.4 out of 5 from only 13 reviews. That larger sample gives you confidence the RT-920 reflects actual user experience. Beyond that, the RT-920 also offers concrete advantages: 8 watts of known transmit power, Bluetooth connectivity, and CHIRP support for easier programming. The HF123D's transmit power is unlisted, and it lacks these features. The HF123D does cost nine dollars more, which makes no sense given the RT-920's better specification sheet and vastly stronger owner ratings.
The HF123D might interest someone who specifically needs its unknown capabilities or finds it locally available with immediate warranty support, but that's a thin case.
The Radtel RT-920 is the choice for anyone wanting a budget handheld with proven user satisfaction and practical features like CHIRP programming and Bluetooth. Buy the Radtel RT-920. It costs less, owners report better results, and you get more features including documented power output.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious field operators on a tight spend
It costs less and offers a much higher value rating, with 8W output for field use.
RT-920Brand-new Technician licensee learning local repeaters
Its simple analog UHF-focused setup suits a beginner learning basic local repeater operation without extra features to manage.
HF123DOperator wanting to monitor both VHF and UHF
It covers both VHF and UHF bands, making it the better choice for wide-band monitoring.
RT-920Shack companion or go-bag buyer wanting Bluetooth
Its Bluetooth support and higher feature score make it more versatile for a shack companion or go-bag setup.
RT-920Buyer who only needs basic UHF simplicity
Its analog VHF/UHF design with a higher beginner-friendliness score suits users who want uncomplicated operation.
HF123DTesting ham radio interest before committing spend
Its lower-stakes entry point suits someone trying out the hobby to see if it fits their interests.
HF123D
Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D
- 82% more battery (4000 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- 16% cheaper ($47.04 vs $55.80)
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
KSUN HF123D
$55.80 on AmazonRadtel RT-920PICK
$47.04 on AmazonMore head-to-heads