RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026KSUN HF123D vs Retevis RA79
Our pick
Retevis RA79$34.99
The Retevis RA79 is the clear winner here. Both radios share identical feature sets on paper—neither offers DMR, APRS, or GPS—but the RA79 edges ahead with CHIRP compatibility for easier programming. More importantly, the price difference is substantial. At $35 versus $56, the RA79 costs $21 less while delivering better specified value for money, reflected in RadioRanked's score of 60 versus 31.
The single most important differentiator is owner feedback. The RA79 has 278 Amazon reviews averaging 4.5 stars, while the HF123D has only 13 reviews at 3.4 stars. That's a significant gap in buyer satisfaction and sample size. We lack TX power figures for both radios, and the HF123D's weight is unlisted, so we cannot claim either radio is superior in those areas.
Buy the Retevis RA79 if you want the better documented value and broader owner consensus. Consider the KSUN HF123D only if its unknown specs happen to suit your specific needs in ways the RA79 cannot.
Go with the Retevis RA79. The combination of lower price, CHIRP support, and substantially stronger owner ratings makes it the logical choice for most buyers.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Absolute beginner testing ham radio interest
Its focus on basic analog VHF/UHF makes it ideal for learning local repeater operation.
HF123DBudget-conscious hams exploring multiple bands
The lower price point and multi-band capability offer excellent value for general use.
RA79Portable field use and general communication
Higher value and multi-band receive capabilities make it better for diverse outdoor operations.
RA79Learning basic local repeater operation
The radio is specifically designed and optimized for new technicians learning basic analog systems.
HF123DNew amateur radio operators needing multi-band receive
The RA79 offers more channels and multi-band receive features crucial for exploration.
RA79
Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D
- 5x more memory channels (960 vs 200)
- 186% more battery (4000 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
Reasons to choose Retevis RA79
- 37% cheaper ($34.99 vs $55.80)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
KSUN HF123D
$55.80 on AmazonRetevis RA79PICK
$34.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

