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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

KSUN 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.

    HF123D
  • First-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 RA89
  • Emergency preparedness and adverse weather backup

    IP68 sealing and a dual-band design make it the sturdier choice for storm and field conditions.

    Retevis RA89
  • Operator tracking many local repeaters

    Stores 960 channels, far more than the alternative, for operators tracking many local repeaters.

    HF123D
  • Hobbyist 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

KSUN HF123DSpecRetevis RA89
$55.80
Price
—
31
Overall Score
49
+59% 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

Search on Amazon

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