RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-730 vs Radtel RT-950 PRO
Our pick
Radtel RT-950 PRO$96.00
The RT-950 PRO is the clear winner for most users despite costing twice as much. The single most important differentiator is the feature set: the RT-950 PRO includes APRS and GPS capabilities that enable location tracking and messaging, making it vastly more versatile for modern amateur radio applications. The RT-730 offers nothing comparable in return for its lower price.
The RT-730 suits budget-conscious operators who exclusively want straightforward FM voice communication and don't mind managing frequencies through CHIRP software. The RT-950 PRO is ideal for anyone who values GPS tracking, APRS messaging, or operational flexibility, and the higher overall score confirms this advantage justifies the investment.
The power difference slightly favors the RT-730 at 10W versus 4W, but this becomes irrelevant if you can't reach repeaters or rely on modern digital capabilities. The absence of CHIRP support on the RT-950 PRO is a minor inconvenience compared to its functional advantages.
For nearly all operators, the RT-950 PRO represents better long-term value. Only choose the RT-730 if your budget is severely constrained and you have zero interest in GPS or APRS functionality.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
Costs less and scores higher for beginners, making it the easier starting point.
RT-730APRS and GPS tracking enthusiast
Only this model offers APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth, with a higher feature score.
Radtel RT-950 PROField day and emergency backup operator
Its 10W output outpaces the 4W model for reaching distant repeaters and stations.
RT-730Multi-band operator wanting large memory banks
Provides 960 memory channels, far more than the 199 on the other model.
Radtel RT-950 PROHams wanting CHIRP programming support
Its CHIRP support makes programming simple for operators who prefer that software.
RT-730
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730
- 59% cheaper ($39.00 vs $96.00)
- 150% more TX power (10W vs 4W)
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO
- 5x more memory channels (960 vs 199)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-730
$39.00 on AmazonRadtel RT-950 PROPICK
$96.00 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

