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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Quansheng TK11 vs Retevis A3

Our pick

Quansheng TK11$96.99

The Quansheng TK11 is the better value here. Both radios share identical core specifications—neither offers DMR, APRS, or GPS, both lack CHIRP compatibility, and they're virtually identical in weight. The TK11 scores 33 versus the A3's 27, reflecting better listed specifications for the money at a slightly lower price point.

The single most important differentiator is owner satisfaction. The TK11 reports a 4.2 out of 5 rating from 15 Amazon reviews, while the A3 scores 3.6 out of 5 from 31 reviews. That's meaningful feedback from a larger sample suggesting the Retevis has generated more mixed owner experiences.

The TK11 makes sense for budget-conscious users seeking a straightforward handheld with stronger reported owner satisfaction. The A3 could appeal only if you have specific reasons to prefer Retevis's ecosystem or support, but the data doesn't argue in its favor here.

Buy the Quansheng TK11. It costs less, scores higher on specifications-per-dollar, and owners report better satisfaction. Unless you have compelling external reasons to choose otherwise, the TK11 is the clear recommendation.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner, first radio purchase

    The TK11's simple interface and high beginner score make it ideal for initial learning.

    TK11
  • Monitoring NOAA and local repeaters

    The A3's superior channel memory and multi-band capability are better for monitoring.

    A3
  • Budget-conscious casual simplex chat

    The TK11 is slightly cheaper and perfectly adequate for basic, local communication.

    TK11
  • Technician needing basic multi-band coverage

    The A3 offers significantly more channels and better overall value for technical use.

    A3
  • Loaner or backup radio for family use

    The TK11's simplicity and lower cost make it perfect for non-expert family use.

    TK11

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 10% cheaper ($96.99 vs $107.99)
  • 20% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • 2g lighter (284g vs 286g)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis A3

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng TK11SpecRetevis A3
$96.99
Price
$107.99
33
Overall Score
27
+22% for winner
999
Memory Channels
999
284g
Weight
286g
+1% difference
3000 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+20% for winner
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Green
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

Quansheng TK11PICK

$96.99 on Amazon

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