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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Quansheng TK11 vs Retevis RT85

Our pick

Retevis RT85$49.99

The Retevis RT85 is the clear winner for most buyers. Both radios lack digital modes and advanced features, making the spec sheets effectively tied on capability. The RT85 costs $50 versus $97 for the TK11, weighs less at 227g, and offers a specified 5W transmit power while the TK11's output remains unknown. More importantly, the RT85 has significantly stronger owner feedback: 270 Amazon reviews averaging 4.5 stars versus 15 reviews at 4.2 stars for the TK11. That larger sample size gives you much better visibility into real-world performance.

The single most important differentiator is price combined with owner confidence. You get the cheaper radio with more buyer evidence supporting it.

Buy the RT85 if you want a budget handheld that owners report working well. Buy the TK11 only if you have a specific reason to believe it suits your needs better than the owner reviews suggest.

Get the Retevis RT85. It costs half as much, lighter, and owners across a much larger sample report satisfaction with it. Unless the TK11 addresses a particular requirement the specs don't show, there's no reason to pay nearly double.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee

    It costs less than the alternative while still offering VHF and UHF coverage and CHIRP programming support for beginners.

    Retevis RT85
  • Operator needing CHIRP programming support

    The RT85 supports CHIRP, which makes channel programming and customization easier than on the TK11.

    Retevis RT85
  • Local repeater user with 5W transmit power

    The RT85 offers 5 watts of transmit power and a higher value score for repeater access on a budget.

    Retevis RT85
  • Family member needing a loaner radio

    The TK11 has a higher beginner-friendliness score and suits simple local simplex conversations without extra setup.

    TK11
  • Operator needing 999 memory channels

    The TK11 provides 999 memory channels, far more than the RT85's 200, for users managing many frequencies.

    TK11
  • Casual simplex user wanting a higher feature score

    The TK11 earns a considerably higher feature score, making it the better pick for simplex-focused operators wanting more capability.

    TK11

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)

Reasons to choose Retevis RT85

  • 48% cheaper ($49.99 vs $96.99)
  • 57g lighter (227g vs 284g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng TK11SpecRetevis RT85
$96.99
Price
$49.99
39
Overall Score
64
+64% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
999
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
284g
Weight
227g
+25% difference
3000 mAh
Battery
—
—
Display
LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
UV-K5
Model Number
FA9195AX2
Handheld Radio
Built-In Media
2 x Retevis RT85 two-way radio, 2 x battery, 2 x antenna, 2 x charger, 2 x user manual, 2 x sling
350-490 MHz
Frequency Range
Analog
Uni-TK11-8
Mfr Part Number
FA9195AX2
Smartphone
Compatible Devices
Radio
Dual Band, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable
Additional Features
LCD display, dual band and dual display
This item can be returned in its original condition for a refund or replacement within 30 days of receipt.
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

Retevis RT85PICK

$49.99 on Amazon

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