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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Quansheng UV-K1 vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

Our pick

Quansheng UV-K1$35.98

# Verdict: Quansheng UV-K1 vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

The Quansheng UV-K1 is the clear winner here, and it's not particularly close. You're getting nearly identical feature sets and performance characteristics, but at less than one-fifth the price. Both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS functionality, neither supports CHIRP programming, and their overall scores are remarkably similar, with the UV-K1 actually scoring slightly higher.

The single most important differentiator is price. The $142 difference between these radios is substantial when their capabilities and performance are so comparable. Unless there's a specific operational requirement we're missing in the specs, paying nearly five times more for marginal differences makes no practical sense.

The UV-K1 suits budget-conscious operators who want basic VHF/UHF capability without breaking the bank. The KG-UV9D Plus might appeal to users who already have Wouxun infrastructure or who need documented support for an older, established radio in their fleet.

Buy the Quansheng UV-K1. Save your money for a quality antenna, a programming cable, or saving toward a significantly more capable radio later. The value proposition here is overwhelming.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New, budget-conscious beginner licensee

    The UV-K1 is ideal for starting out with its low cost and simple features.

    UV-K1
  • Experienced monitor needing high channel count

    The UV9D Plus offers significantly more memory and reliability for extensive monitoring.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Casual local simplex and monitoring use

    Its simplicity and low price make it perfect for basic local communication needs.

    UV-K1
  • Technician needing reliable basic analog comms

    The UV9D Plus provides greater reliability and robust performance for basic analog use.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Operator needing a secondary, backup radio

    The UV-K1 serves well as a low-cost, simple backup radio without unnecessary features.

    UV-K1

Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K1

  • 80% cheaper ($35.98 vs $179.99)
  • 60g lighter (190g vs 250g)

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng UV-K1SpecWouxun KG-UV9D Plus
$35.98
Price
$179.99
44
Overall Score
35
+25% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
200
Memory Channels
999
5.0× difference
190g
Weight
250g
+32% difference
1400 mAh
Battery
—
LCD
Display
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black with Yellow Antenna
color
Black
717206453386
UPC
726312619104
Black with Yellow Antenna
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7 Volts
UV-TK11(8)
Model Number
KG UV9D Plus
50-600MHz (Rx) / 144-148MHz & 420-450MHz (Tx)
Frequency Range
136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz
QUANSHENG two-way radios, ham radios, devices supporting DTMF Calling, FCC compliant devices
Compatible Devices
RM
Dual Band
Additional Features
Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Quansheng UV-K1PICK

$35.98 on Amazon

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

$179.99 on Amazon

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