RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-470X vs Retevis RT85
Our pick
Retevis RT85$49.99
The Retevis RT85 is the stronger choice for most buyers.
The most important differentiator is price paired with owner satisfaction. The RT85 costs $20 more but owners report notably higher satisfaction: 4.5 out of 5 stars across 270 reviews versus the RT-470X's 4.1 out of 5 across 256 reviews. Both radios support CHIRP programming and lack DMR, APRS, and GPS. The RT85 is also 40 grams lighter and delivers a confirmed 5W of transmit power, while the RT-470X's power output remains unspecified. The RT-470X does have a listed IP54 weather rating where the RT85 has none documented, but this single advantage doesn't offset the RT85's gains elsewhere.
The RT-470X makes sense only if your budget is strictly limited to $30 and you need that IP54 rating for wet environments. The RT85 suits anyone who can spend $50 and wants better real-world owner feedback, confirmed specifications, and lighter weight.
Go with the Retevis RT85 unless cost is your absolute constraint. The extra investment buys you documented power output, verified user satisfaction, and a more refined package.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee on a tight budget
Costs less and scores higher on value, making it the easier first purchase for newcomers.
Retevis RT85Outdoor user exposed to rain and dust
The IP54 rating gives it dust and splash resistance for wet field conditions.
RT-470XSummit or hiker prioritizing lighter carry weight
At 227 grams it is noticeably lighter than the 267 gram alternative for long days.
Retevis RT85Emergency preparedness with many stored channels
Its 256 memory channels and multi-band receiver suit a larger stored channel list.
RT-470XRepeater user needing higher transmit power
Its 5 watt output offers a clear transmit power advantage for distant repeater access.
Retevis RT85Experienced operator wanting richer feature set
It has a higher feature score and more memory channels for operators who want more options.
RT-470X
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X
- 28% more memory channels (256 vs 200)
- Has color TFT display
- IP54 water resistance
Reasons to choose Retevis RT85
- 40g lighter (227g vs 267g)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-470X
Check on AmazonRetevis RT85PICK
$49.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads