RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radioddity GD-168 vs Radtel RT-860
Our pick
Radioddity GD-168$139.99
The Radioddity GD-168 is the clear winner for anyone who needs digital radio capability.
The most important differentiator is digital mode support. The GD-168 includes DMR and APRS, making it suitable for digital networks and emergency location sharing. The Radtel RT-860 has none of these modes, limiting it to analog FM operation. We do not have the RT-860's transmit power specification, but the GD-168's 5W is standard for this class.
Both radios lack weather sealing and CHIRP support. Owners report the GD-168 at 4.2/5 across 12 reviews, while the RT-860 owners report 3.9/5 across 139 reviews. The larger sample for the RT-860 provides broader feedback, though both reflect satisfaction in the moderate range.
The GD-168 costs $140 versus $39 for the RT-860. If you operate on DMR networks or need APRS capability, the GD-168 justifies its premium price. If you only need basic FM analog operation and budget is the primary concern, the RT-860 may suffice, though owner feedback does not indicate it outperforms at its price point.
Buy the GD-168 if you use digital modes or plan to migrate to them. Buy the RT-860 only if analog-only operation meets your needs and cost is critical.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
Costs far less than the alternative while covering the local VHF and UHF repeater and simplex work beginners need.
RT-860Digital DMR upgrader joining networks
Offers DMR and APRS support, which the analog-only alternative cannot provide for digital net participation.
Radioddity GD-168Local repeater and simplex operator
Handles analog VHF and UHF repeater and simplex traffic without the extra features a digital-focused buyer would need.
RT-860Operator needing large channel storage
Stores 4000 channels, a higher memory capacity than the alternative's 1024 channels.
Radioddity GD-168Portable field user prioritizing carry weight
Weighs less than the alternative, making it the easier pick for carrying on long field outings.
Radioddity GD-168Emergency kit builder on a tight budget
Keeps spare-radio costs low for emergency kits while still offering simple, fast analog channel access.
RT-860
Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,024)
- 35g lighter (220g vs 255g)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860
- 74% cheaper ($36.99 vs $139.99)
- 11% more battery (2000 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radioddity GD-168PICK
$139.99 on AmazonRadtel RT-860
$36.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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