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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

KSUN HF123D vs Retevis RA89

Our pick

Retevis RA89$74.99

The RA89 is the clear winner. Both radios lack published transmit power specs and lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS. The decisive factors are practical differences in listed specifications and owner feedback. The RA89 offers CHIRP programming support, an IP68 waterproof rating, and a known weight of 295g. The HF123D lists none of these specs. More importantly, the RA89 has 278 Amazon reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars, while the HF123D has only 13 reviews at 3.4 stars. That review count matters: the RA89's feedback comes from a substantially larger group of actual buyers. The price gap is just eleven dollars. The HF123D should appeal only to buyers on a tight budget who accept missing specifications and limited owner feedback as acceptable tradeoffs. The RA89 is the choice for anyone wanting documented features, weather protection, modern programming options, and evidence of buyer satisfaction. Buy the RA89 unless budget alone is your constraint.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner testing ham radio interest

    Its simple analog VHF/UHF features are perfect for learning basic local operation.

    HF123D
  • Emergency preparedness or field deployment

    The IP68 rating and high channel count make it ideal for adverse weather use.

    Retevis RA89
  • Budget-conscious new hobbyist needing reliability

    It offers superior features and durability while remaining highly affordable.

    Retevis RA89
  • Learning basic local repeater operation

    The radio is designed specifically for new technicians starting out with basic repeater skills.

    HF123D
  • Advanced operator needing digital modes

    While neither is perfect, the RA89's features and channels support more advanced modes.

    Retevis RA89

Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D

  • 26% cheaper ($55.80 vs $74.99)
  • 5x more memory channels (960 vs 200)
  • 60% more battery (4000 mAh vs 2500 mAh)

Reasons to choose Retevis RA89

  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP68 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

KSUN HF123DSpecRetevis RA89
$55.80
Price
$74.99
31
Overall Score
51
+64% for winner
960
Memory Channels
200
4.8× difference
—
Weight
295g
4000 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+59% for winner
—
Display
LCD
—
IP Rating
IP68
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 (DC)
UHF
Tuner Type
dual band
KSUN-HF123D
Model Number
RA89
Antenna
Built-In Media
1 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, User Manual
CB, HF, SSB, AM
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Two-way radios (CB, HF, SSB, AM frequencies), Headsets, Earpieces
Compatible Devices
Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories
Noise Reduction
Additional Features
Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range

Made your choice?

KSUN HF123D

$55.80 on Amazon

Retevis RA89PICK

$74.99 on Amazon

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