RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-730 vs Radtel RT-880G
Our pick
Radtel RT-880G$97.50
The RT-880G is the clear winner if you need GPS and APRS capability; otherwise, it depends on your budget and feature requirements.
The single most important differentiator is features. Both radios transmit at 10W and support CHIRP programming, but the RT-880G adds GPS and APRS functionality while the RT-730 offers neither. The RT-880G costs 2.5 times as much, but owners report satisfaction at 4.4/5 across 152 reviews versus the RT-730's 4.1/5 from 176 reviews.
The RT-730 suits operators on a tight budget who need basic VHF/UHF communication without location or packet services. The RT-880G is built for users who require GPS tracking or APRS functionality and can spend the extra sixty dollars.
Buy the RT-730 if features beyond simplex voice transmission don't matter to you. Buy the RT-880G if you use or plan to use GPS or APRS. The owner ratings are close enough that the choice really hinges on whether those extra features justify the price increase in your use case.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee on a tight budget
It costs less and its beginner-friendly controls make it a sensible first radio for a new ham.
RT-730Budget-conscious buyer wanting CHIRP programming
It costs less and offers CHIRP support, so the user can program channels without extra hardware or software expense.
RT-730Field Day backup radio buyer
Its lower cost makes it an easy choice for a spare radio that may be loaned out or left in a go-kit.
RT-730Summits on the Air activator on a budget
Its APRS and GPS features support position reporting from remote summits, which the simpler radio lacks.
RT-880GARES member needing position reporting
Built-in APRS and GPS let the operator report location during served events, while the other radio cannot.
RT-880GHikers and outdoor field group leaders
Its GPS and APRS capability and larger 1024-channel memory suit groups coordinating across varied terrain.
RT-880G
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730
- 60% cheaper ($39.00 vs $97.50)
- 4% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 199)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-730
$39.00 on AmazonRadtel RT-880GPICK
$97.50 on AmazonMore head-to-heads