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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Quansheng UV-K1 vs Radtel RT-950 PRO

Our pick

Radtel RT-950 PRO$96.00

The Radtel RT-950 PRO is the clear winner here. This isn't a close call.

The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The RT-950 PRO includes APRS and GPS capabilities that the UV-K1 completely lacks. For amateur radio operators who want to track their position or participate in APRS networks, this is essential functionality. The RT-950 PRO also delivers a documented 4W of transmit power, while the UV-K1's output remains mysteriously unspecified. That transparency alone suggests better engineering.

The UV-K1 makes sense only for absolute budget-conscious users who want a basic analog FM radio for local repeater access and nothing more. The RT-950 PRO should be purchased by anyone seeking a capable handheld with modern features and actual documentation of its specifications.

At double the price, the RT-950 PRO delivers more than double the value through its superior feature set and significantly higher review score of 75 compared to 36. Unless your budget is strictly limited to $38, the choice is straightforward. The RT-950 PRO represents genuinely useful ham radio capability rather than a barely functional bargain basement option.

Runner-up
Quansheng UV-K1
Winner
Radtel RT-950 PRO

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Absolute beginner on a tight budget

    Its low cost and simple analog features make it an ideal first radio.

    UV-K1
  • Enthusiast needing APRS and GPS integration

    The built-in APRS and GPS features provide advanced functionality for serious hobbyists.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Portable emergency preparedness kit

    The higher power and advanced features make it a robust secondary emergency communication tool.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Casual local simplex monitoring

    It is perfectly suited for simple, low-power monitoring and local VHF/UHF use.

    UV-K1
  • Operator needing advanced digital modes

    The advanced memory and feature set support exploration beyond basic analog operation.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO

Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K1

  • 63% cheaper ($35.98 vs $96.00)

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO

  • 5x more memory channels (960 vs 200)
  • 57% more battery (2200 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng UV-K1SpecRadtel RT-950 PRO
$35.98
Price
$96.00
42
Overall Score
76
+82% for winner
TX Power (High)
4.00W
200
Memory Channels
960
4.8× difference
1400 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+56% for winner
LCD
Display
Color LCD
Not Found
FCC Authorization
Not Found
Black with Yellow Antenna
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black with Yellow Antenna
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UV-TK11(8)
Model Number
RT-950 PRO
Antenna
Built-In Media
1x RT-950 PRO Main unit, 1x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
50-600MHz (Rx) / 144-148MHz & 420-450MHz (Tx)
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
QUANSHENG two-way radios, ham radios, devices supporting DTMF Calling, FCC compliant devices
Compatible Devices
Smartphones, Desktops
Dual Band
Additional Features
27MHz TX/RX at FM Modulation with power 3-4W,Shortwave ML/LW/SW/USB/LSB/CW Reception, Bluetooth App Programming,High Output Power,GPS/APRS Position Sending, Channel Zone Function,Full-Color Display,PC Programming, Integrated Spectrum Analyzer,Wireless Frequency Copy,NOAA Weather Channel Support
2 years
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Quansheng UV-K1

$35.98 on Amazon

Radtel RT-950 PROPICK

$96.00 on Amazon

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