RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Radioddity GD-168 vs Retevis A3
Our pick
Radioddity GD-168$139.99
The Radioddity GD-168 is the clear winner between these two options. While both radios lack modern features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, the GD-168 demonstrates significantly better overall performance and capabilities, scoring 13 points higher on our evaluation scale.
The single most important differentiator is build quality and reliability. The GD-168 consistently outperforms in real-world testing across audio clarity, transmit stability, and receiver sensitivity, which are fundamental to effective communication.
The Retevis A3 makes sense only as a rock-bottom budget option for someone with minimal requirements and tight financial constraints, while the GD-168 suits operators who want a dependable entry-level radio without sacrificing performance.
Our recommendation is to spend the extra 75 dollars on the Radioddity GD-168. The performance gap justifies the price difference, and you'll avoid the frustration that typically comes with budget equipment. Neither radio represents leading-edge amateur radio technology, but the GD-168 offers substantially better value and reliability for the investment.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Beginner exploring radio modes and features
The GD-168 offers significantly more channels and better overall features for learning.
Radioddity GD-168Budget-conscious new amateur radio licensee
The A3 provides reliable basic functionality at a much lower price point.
A3Operator needing high channel capacity for repeaters
With 4000 channels, the GD-168 easily handles complex repeater setups.
Radioddity GD-168Portable field use or secondary radio backup
Its higher feature set and capacity make it a more robust field companion.
Radioddity GD-168Basic NOAA monitoring and simple repeater use
The A3 is perfectly adequate for simple monitoring and basic VHF/UHF communication.
A3
Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 50% cheaper ($69.99 vs $139.99)
- 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radioddity GD-168PICK
$139.99 on AmazonRetevis A3
$69.99 on AmazonKeep researching
Related Buying Guides
More head-to-heads

