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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

QYT KT-8900D vs Retevis RT95

Our pick

Retevis RT95$125.99

The RT95 edges out the KT-8900D as the better overall choice, though the margin is slim at 59 versus 57 points.

The most significant differentiator is portability. The RT95 weighs 645 grams compared to the KT-8900D's hefty 1043 grams, making it substantially easier to mount and operate in mobile installations where space and weight matter. This advantage compounds if you plan frequent vehicle swaps or need a radio that doesn't dominate your dash.

The KT-8900D justifies its lower $81 price point with genuinely useful 25-watt transmission power, making it the smarter buy if you prioritize output watts and operate on a tight budget with a permanent mobile setup. The RT95 makes more sense for operators who value a lighter footprint and don't want to compromise too much on capability, though its unknown power rating leaves some uncertainty about real-world performance.

We'd recommend the RT95 for most mobile operators seeking the better balanced package. However, budget-conscious users with fixed installations should stick with the KT-8900D and its known 25-watt punch. Both radios are competent entry-level performers with CHIRP support, so either will get you on the air reliably.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-focused mobile installer on a tight budget

    It costs less than the alternative while delivering 25W transmit power for a compact vehicle install.

    KT-8900D
  • Operator who programs with CHIRP software

    Its better display and cooling suit a CHIRP-first workflow, making front-panel programming less of a concern.

    KT-8900D
  • New amateur radio operator learning on the air

    It earns a higher beginner-friendliness rating and is listed with a documented 200-channel memory.

    Retevis RT95
  • Owner wanting a lighter mobile radio

    At 645g it weighs noticeably less than the 1043g alternative, easing mounting and portability.

    Retevis RT95
  • Home base station experimenter

    Its higher feature score and channel memory make it a flexible choice for tinkering at a fixed station.

    Retevis RT95
  • Buyer needing a published TX power figure

    It lists a specific 25W transmit power, whereas the alternative does not publish its output power.

    KT-8900D

Reasons to choose QYT KT-8900D

  • 36% cheaper ($80.90 vs $125.99)

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • 398g lighter (645g vs 1043g)
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

QYT KT-8900DSpecRetevis RT95
$80.90
Price
$125.99
57
Overall Score
59
+3% for winner
25.00W
TX Power (High)
—
—
Memory Channels
200
1043g
Weight
645g
+61% difference
LCD
Display
TFT Color
—
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black

Made your choice?

QYT KT-8900D

$80.90 on Amazon

Retevis RT95PICK

$125.99 on Amazon

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