RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026KSUN HF123D vs Retevis RA89
Our pick
KSUN HF123D$55.80
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?
Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest entry cost
Costs less than the alternative while covering UHF repeaters for a basic local setup.
HF123DFirst-time licensee wanting dual-band VHF and UHF
Covers both VHF and UHF bands and suits a new licensee who wants a versatile first handheld.
Retevis RA89Emergency preparedness and adverse weather backup
IP68 sealing and a dual-band design make it the sturdier choice for storm and field conditions.
Retevis RA89Operator tracking many local repeaters
Stores 960 channels, far more than the alternative, for operators tracking many local repeaters.
HF123DHobbyist testing whether ham radio suits them
Costs less to try, making it a sensible low-risk starting point for someone still exploring the hobby.
HF123D
Reasons to choose KSUN HF123D
- 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
Made your choice?
KSUN HF123D
$55.80 on AmazonRetevis RA89PICK
Search on AmazonMore head-to-heads

