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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Radtel RT-730 vs Radtel RT-860

Our pick

Radtel RT-730$39.00

The RT-730 and RT-860 are identically priced at $39, making this comparison straightforward. Both lack DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities. The RT-730 delivers better specified value for the money, with a confirmed 10W transmit power and CHIRP compatibility, reflected in its higher RadioRanked score of 63 versus 45. We don't have the RT-860's transmit power specification, so a direct capability comparison isn't possible on that front. The RT-730 has slightly better owner sentiment, with a 4.1 out of 5 rating from 176 Amazon reviews compared to the RT-860's 3.9 out of 5 from 139 reviews. The most important differentiator is that the RT-730 offers documented specifications and programming flexibility via CHIRP at the same price point.

The RT-730 is the better choice for users who want confirmed specs and software programmability. The RT-860 might appeal only if its unknown transmit power and lack of CHIRP support don't conflict with your specific use case. Given equal pricing and the RT-730's clearer feature set, the RT-730 is the safer recommendation for most buyers.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New hams needing digital flexibility

    Its CHIRP support makes it far more versatile for modern digital modes.

    RT-730
  • Budget user needing maximum channel memory

    The 1024 channel memory is ideal for local repeater and scanning operations.

    RT-860
  • Portable field day operations

    The higher transmit power and overall features make it better for varied field use.

    RT-730
  • Basic local simplex and repeater comms

    Its simple analog design is perfect for reliable, local VHF/UHF communication.

    RT-860
  • Ham needing future digital expansion

    CHIRP support ensures compatibility with future and current digital protocols.

    RT-730

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730

  • 25% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 199)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-730SpecRadtel RT-860
$39.00
Price
$39.00
63
Overall Score
45
+41% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
—
199
Memory Channels
1024
5.3× difference
—
Weight
255g
2500 mAh
Battery
2000 mAh
+25% for winner
LCD
Display
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
1 PCS + Prog Cable
color
With SW/MW Antennas
1
unitCount
1
1 PCS + Prog Cable
Color
With SW/MW Antennas
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception,
RT-730
Model Number
RT-860
1 RT-730 Ham Radio, 1xProgramming Cable,1x 2500mAh Li-ion Battery Pack, 1x Standard Long Antenna, 1x Desktop charger, 1x belt clip, 1x user manual
Built-In Media
1x RT-860 Main unit, 1x 2000mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1X Desktop charger, 1x lanyard, 1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
144-148MHZ / 420-450MHZ
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
RT-730
Mfr Part Number
RT-860
Two-way radios on the same frequency band, compatible accessories like headsets, earpieces, or external antennas, and computers for programming.
Compatible Devices
External antennas (50 ohm)
16-630Mhz Receiver, Long Range, High quality resolution LCD, Type C charging, Full band radio am/fm/air/cb/ham/noaa/short wave receiver
Additional Features
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
1 Year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Waterproof
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-730PICK

$39.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-860

$39.00 on Amazon

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