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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Quansheng UV-K6 vs Retevis HA1UV

Our pick

Quansheng UV-K6$31.55

The Quansheng UV-K6 is the clear winner for budget-conscious operators. Both radios offer identical feature sets—no DMR, APRS, or GPS on either model—and both support CHIRP programming. The decisive factors are price and owner feedback. At $32, the UV-K6 costs less than half the HA1UV's $70 price tag while delivering better listed specifications for the money, reflected in its higher overall score of 65 versus 59. Owners report strong satisfaction with the UV-K6 at 4.4 out of 5 stars across 398 reviews, providing substantial real-world feedback. The HA1UV's 4.6 rating is slightly higher but based on only 47 reviews, and we lack its transmit power specification entirely. The UV-K6's 234-gram weight also makes it more portable than the HA1UV's 337 grams.

The UV-K6 offers far better value for basic VHF/UHF operation. The HA1UV might appeal to users with specific undocumented capabilities, but the UV-K6's known specs and proven owner satisfaction make it the smarter purchase for amateur radio on a budget.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time, budget-conscious monitoring hobbyist

    Its lower price point makes it an excellent entry-level radio for basic monitoring.

    UV-K6
  • Outdoor operations needing rugged durability

    The IP67 rating ensures reliable performance in harsh weather and dusty environments.

    HA1UV
  • Beginner needing maximum ease of use

    The slightly higher beginner score and robust build make it ideal for new operators.

    HA1UV
  • Operator prioritizing lightweight portability

    At 234g, the K6 is noticeably lighter, making it better for extended carrying periods.

    UV-K6
  • Ham radio beginner getting started with local repeaters

    The combination of features and IP rating provides better overall value for new users.

    HA1UV

Reasons to choose Quansheng UV-K6

  • 55% cheaper ($31.55 vs $69.99)
  • 103g lighter (234g vs 337g)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis HA1UV

  • 28% more memory channels (256 vs 200)
  • 100% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display
  • IP67 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng UV-K6SpecRetevis HA1UV
$31.55
Price
$69.99
64
Overall Score
59
+9% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
—
200
Memory Channels
256
+28% for winner
234g
Weight
337g
+45% difference
1400 mAh
Battery
2800 mAh
2.0× difference
Dot-matrix LCD
Display
Color LCD
—
IP Rating
IP67
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
3.7 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
VHF
Tuner Type
U/V band
UV-K6
Model Number
HA1UV
UV-K6 , Antenna, Battery , Charger , User manual , Clip
Built-In Media
1 x 2800mAh lithium_ion battery, 1 x Belt clip & Hand strap, 1 x Data cable, 1 x HA1UV two way radio, 1 x Type-C charging cable & Charging base
Battery chargers, External antennas, Carrying accessories, Other two-way radios on UHF and VHF frequencies
Compatible Devices
Repeater, Speaker, two way radio with the same frequency and the same CTCSS/DCS
Weather Alert
Additional Features
Handheld Ham Radio with Cable;IP67 waterproof;NOAA Weather Receiver;Type-C Rechargeable;VFO
1
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

Made your choice?

Quansheng UV-K6PICK

$31.55 on Amazon

Retevis HA1UV

$69.99 on Amazon

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