RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Quansheng TK11 vs Retevis A3
Our pick
Quansheng TK11$96.99
The Quansheng TK11 is the clear winner here. Both radios share essentially identical feature sets: no digital modes, no GPS, no Bluetooth, and unknown transmit power specifications. They're also nearly identical in weight at 284g and 286g respectively. The single most important differentiator is CHIRP support. The TK11 offers CHIRP programming capability while the A3 does not, making frequency management and customization significantly easier on the TK11.
The owner ratings tell the story: the TK11 receives 4.2 out of 5 stars from 15 reviewers, while the A3 scores 3.6 out of 5 from 31 reviewers. This suggests TK11 owners are more satisfied with their purchase. Combined with the $13 price advantage and practical CHIRP support, the TK11 is the better value proposition.
Buy the Quansheng TK11 if you want easier programming, better owner satisfaction, and lower cost. Buy the Retevis A3 only if you have a specific reason to prefer it over the TK11, as it doesn't offer compensating advantages in the available data.
Get the TK11.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee wanting a simple starter radio
It is easier for beginners and covers the VHF and UHF bands new licensees use most.
TK11Budget-conscious buyer on a tight radio budget
It costs less than the alternative while offering the same 999 channels and VHF and UHF coverage.
TK11NOAA weather and repeater listener
It is listed for NOAA monitoring and adds 6m band coverage the other radio lacks.
A3Experimenter wanting an extra band
Its 6m band gives experimenters an extra band to explore beyond the VHF and UHF coverage.
A3Portable operator prioritizing lighter weight
It weighs 284 grams, slightly lighter than the alternative at 286 grams, for longer carry days.
TK11
Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11
- 12% cheaper ($96.99 vs $109.99)
- 20% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- 2g lighter (284g vs 286g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- No clear advantages in this comparison
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Quansheng TK11PICK
$96.99 on AmazonRetevis A3
$109.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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