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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Radtel RT-470X vs Y23UV-98PLUS

Our pick

Y23UV-98PLUS$96.85

The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner for most users, despite costing over three times more than the Radtel RT-470X.

The single most important differentiator is feature set. The Y23UV-98PLUS includes APRS and GPS capabilities that the RT-470X lacks entirely, making it vastly more functional for modern amateur radio applications. The Y23UV-98PLUS also has a confirmed 10W transmit power, while the RT-470X's output remains unknown, raising questions about its actual utility in the field.

Budget-conscious operators or those wanting a basic programming platform should consider the RT-470X, though its sparse specifications and missing power rating are concerning red flags. The Y23UV-98PLUS suits anyone wanting a capable handheld with location tracking and position reporting features, plus the higher overall score reflects its superior engineering.

We recommend the Y23UV-98PLUS. The extra investment delivers meaningful capabilities and verified specifications that justify the cost. Only choose the RT-470X if budget is absolutely critical and you can confirm its transmit power independently—but that lack of transparency itself is a warning sign worth heeding.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-470X

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time, budget-conscious hobbyist

    Its lower price and ample features make it an excellent entry point.

    RT-470X
  • Operator needing basic APRS tracking

    The inclusion of dedicated APRS and GPS features is ideal for tracking.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Portable field use and camping operations

    The combination of GPS and higher power makes it better for remote field use.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Casual local simplex operations

    Its design is optimized for simple, local communication without extra features.

    RT-470X
  • Beginner needing more features and channels

    The higher channel memory and extra features suit a buyer looking to grow.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Budget-constrained buyer needing basic functionality

    It offers core radio functions at a significantly lower price point.

    RT-470X

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X

  • 66% cheaper ($32.99 vs $96.85)
  • 17% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • IP54 water resistance

Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS

  • 4x more memory channels (1,024 vs 256)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-470XSpecY23UV-98PLUS
$32.99
Price
$96.85
66
Overall Score
70
+6% for winner
TX Power (High)
10.00W
256
Memory Channels
1024
4.0× difference
2800 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+16% for winner
1.77in TFT Color
Display
TFT Color
IP54
IP Rating
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Standard
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Standard
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.38 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
RT-470X
Model Number
Y23UV-98PLUS
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 Y23UV-98PLUS Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x MW Antenna, 1x SW Antenna,1x English User Manual
144-148/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
K-connector
Compatible Devices
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency
Additional Features
1024 Chlannels, AM FM SSB R Eeception, Adjustable Receiver Sensitivity, Cross Band Repeater, GPS/APRS
1 Year Warranty
Warranty Description
1 Year
1.57"D x 2.28"W x 4.6"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-470X

$32.99 on Amazon

Y23UV-98PLUSPICK

$96.85 on Amazon

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