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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Radtel RT-470X vs Radtel RT-493

Our pick

Radtel RT-493$32.99

The RT-493 is the clear winner for most users.

The most important differentiator is price and weather sealing. The RT-493 costs $33 with a known 10W output and IP67 rating, meaning it handles full submersion. The RT-470X's price and power output are unknown, and its IP54 rating only resists water spray, not immersion. Both radios lack digital modes and Bluetooth, and owners report the same 4.1/5 satisfaction across both models despite different sample sizes.

The RT-493 suits buyers who want a straightforward budget handheld with proven submersion protection and transparency on specifications. The RT-470X only makes sense if its unknown price significantly undercuts the RT-493 and its missing specs prove superior in practice, but we cannot assess that here.

Go with the RT-493. You get a known price point, confirmed power output, better weather protection, and the same owner satisfaction. Without knowing the RT-470X's actual cost or power rating, there is no compelling reason to choose it.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New Technicians learning both VHF and UHF

    The RT-470X covers both VHF and UHF and supports CHIRP, so new licensees can learn quickly.

    RT-470X
  • Budget-conscious buyer prioritizing low cost

    The RT-493 costs less and offers more value for the money, which suits tight budgets.

    RT-493
  • Rugged outdoor users facing rain and dust

    The RT-493 carries an IP67 rating and 10W output, built for rugged outdoor use in rain and dust.

    RT-493
  • GMRS and simplex repeater link operators

    The RT-493 offers 10W output and supports GMRS and business frequencies for link work.

    RT-493
  • Hikers prioritizing the lightest carry weight

    The RT-470X weighs 267g, slightly lighter than the RT-493, for carrying on long hikes.

    RT-470X

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X

  • 29% more memory channels (256 vs 199)
  • 13g lighter (267g vs 280g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-493

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-470XSpecRadtel RT-493
—
Price
$32.99
52
Overall Score
59
+14% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
10.00W
256
Memory Channels
199
+28% for winner
267g
Weight
280g
+5% difference
2800 mAh
Battery
2800 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
IP54
IP Rating
IP67
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
1
unitCount
1
715748983927
UPC
016392405323
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
FM/AM
Tuner Type
AM/FM
RT-470X
Model Number
RT-493
1x Radtel RT-470X Ham Radio,1x 2800mAh Type-C Battery, 1x 7.87-inch Dual Band 145/435 Antenna, 1x 39-inch USB-C Charger Cable, 1x Belt Clip with Metal Piece, 1x English User Manual,1x AC Power Adapter with USB Port (FCC ID: 2AZSA-RT470X)
Built-In Media
1x RT-493 Radio, 1x Li-ion Battery with Type C Port, 1x Desktop Charger, 1x Antenna, 1x Belt clip, 1x Eng User manual
144-148/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
462.55 -462.725 Mhz, 462.5625 -462.7125 Mhz, 467.55 -467.725 Mhz, 467.5625-467.7125Mhz
RT-470X
Mfr Part Number
RT-493
IP54
Waterproof Rating
IP67
K-connector
Compatible Devices
devices, External antennas
Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency
Additional Features
Build-in display, IP67 Waterproof, Type-C Charging
1 Year Warranty
Warranty Description
1 Year

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-470X

Check on Amazon

Radtel RT-493PICK

$32.99 on Amazon

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