RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Quansheng UV-K1 vs Retevis HA2
Our pick
Retevis HA2$109.99
The UV-K1 is the clear winner if you prioritize affordability and portability. The HA2 offers more features and better weather protection, but at significantly higher cost and weight.
The single most important differentiator is price paired with portability. The UV-K1 costs $36 versus the HA2's $100, and weighs 190g compared to 403g. For basic handheld use, the UV-K1 delivers core functionality at a fraction of the cost.
The HA2 adds APRS capability, CHIRP support for easier programming, and an IP67 rating for weather resistance. We do not have TX power figures for either radio, so power output cannot inform this comparison. Owners report a 5.0/5 rating for the HA2, though this reflects only two reviews, while the UV-K1 owners gave 4.4/5 across eight reviews. The larger review pool for the UV-K1 provides somewhat better insight into actual user experience.
Buy the UV-K1 if budget and weight matter most and you need basic two-way communication. Buy the HA2 if you want APRS, easier programming, weather sealing, and can accept the higher price and weight.
The UV-K1 is the stronger recommendation for most handheld users, offering excellent value with consistent owner satisfaction.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New Technician licensee on a tight budget
Simple analog VHF and UHF operation suits a new licensee and costs less than the Retevis.
UV-K1Listener who mainly scans local frequencies
Its 200 memory channels cover basic monitoring needs without the extra features a scanning listener won't use.
UV-K1Pocket carry for casual local simplex
At 190 grams it is less than half the weight of the HA2, which matters for all-day clipping.
UV-K1APRS operator running portable activations and nets
APRS and Bluetooth support make the HA2 the practical choice for digital position reporting in the field.
HA2Outdoor user needing rugged, weather-resistant gear
The IP67 rating lets the HA2 handle dust, rain, and accidental submersion that the UV-K1 is not rated for.
HA2Hobbyist who programs many channels with CHIRP
With 1024 memory channels and CHIRP compatibility, the HA2 suits operators managing large repeater lists.
HA2
Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K1
- 67% cheaper ($35.98 vs $109.99)
- 213g lighter (190g vs 403g)
Reasons to choose Retevis HA2
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 200)
- 100% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has Bluetooth
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Quansheng UV-K1
$35.98 on AmazonRetevis HA2PICK
$109.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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