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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

KSUN HF123D vs Retevis HD2

Our pick

Retevis HD2$179.99

The Retevis HD2 is the clear winner for most users. The single most important differentiator is feature set: the HD2 includes DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities that the KSUN HF123D lacks entirely, and these features justify the price premium for anyone planning to use digital modes or location sharing. The KSUN makes sense only if you need the absolute cheapest entry point and plan minimal use, though we lack critical specs like transmit power and weight for a complete picture. The HD2 should appeal to anyone wanting modern digital radio capability, while the KSUN might suit someone testing whether handheld radio interests them at all. RadioRanked's scoring reflects the HD2's substantially better listed specifications relative to its price, and owners report noticeably higher satisfaction with the HD2 based on 87 reviews averaging 4.0 stars compared to the KSUN's 3.4 stars from 13 reviews. For serious amateur radio use, the HD2 delivers the features and owner confidence that justify spending three times as much.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New beginner learning basic local repeaters

    Its simple analog operation and low cost make it perfect for initial learning.

    HF123D
  • Advanced operator needing DMR and APRS modes

    The HD2 offers high feature density and supports multiple digital modes.

    HD2
  • Portable field use and outdoor activations

    IP67 rating and robust features ensure reliability during demanding outdoor use.

    HD2
  • Budget-conscious hobbyist testing ham radio interest

    The extremely low price point minimizes risk for a new hobbyist.

    HF123D
  • Team requiring durable mixed-mode communication

    Its combination of durability, memory, and multi-mode support is ideal for teams.

    HD2

Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D

  • 69% cheaper ($55.80 vs $179.99)
  • 25% more battery (4000 mAh vs 3200 mAh)

Reasons to choose Retevis HD2

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 960)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • IP67 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

KSUN HF123DSpecRetevis HD2
$55.80
Price
$179.99
31
Overall Score
75
2.4× difference
960
Memory Channels
3000
3.1× difference
—
Weight
365g
4000 mAh
Battery
3200 mAh
+25% for winner
—
IP Rating
IP67
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
3.7 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF
Tuner Type
u/v
KSUN-HF123D
Model Number
HD2
Antenna
Built-In Media
Antenna ×1;User's Manual ×1, Belt Clip ×1;SIing ×1;BIuetoothEarpiece ×1, Retevis AiIunce HD2 Radio Body ×1, Type-C Desktop Charger ×1, USB Type-C Charging CabIe ×1;Battery ×1
CB, HF, SSB, AM
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Two-way radios (CB, HF, SSB, AM frequencies), Headsets, Earpieces
Compatible Devices
Bluetooth-enabled headsets or earpro
Noise Reduction
Additional Features
Ham Radio with Cable;Analog & Digital Mode;IP67 Waterproof;3200mAh Battery & Type c Charging;VFO, ham radio handheld; amateur radio;digital ham radio; two way radio; walkie talkies long range

Made your choice?

KSUN HF123D

$55.80 on Amazon

Retevis HD2PICK

$179.99 on Amazon

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