RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-730 vs Retevis HA2
Our pick
Retevis HA2$89.99
The Retevis HA2 is the better choice for most buyers, though it depends on your budget and feature needs.
The most important differentiator is features. The RT-730 is a basic FM radio with no digital modes or connectivity. The HA2 adds APRS capability and Bluetooth, expanding what you can do with the radio. The HA2 also carries an IP67 rating, meaning we have weather resistance data for it; we have no IP rating for the RT-730. Both radios support CHIRP programming.
The RT-730 suits buyers who need a cheap, straightforward FM handheld and have no use for APRS or Bluetooth connectivity. The HA2 is for operators who want smartphone integration, APRS tracking, or confirmed weather sealing, and can afford the higher price.
We cannot compare transmit power directly because the HA2's TX power is not listed. The RT-730's 10W output is a genuine advantage we can measure, but without the HA2's figure, we cannot call this a decisive factor. Owner ratings show the HA2 at 5.0 out of 5, though from only 2 reviews; the RT-730 rates 4.1 from 176 reviews, a much larger sample. Go with the HA2 if its features matter to you and you accept less owner feedback data.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
Costs less and offers simple operation, which suits someone just starting out on a tight budget.
RT-730Field day backup radio buyer
A low purchase price makes it an affordable spare for field day when gear might get lost or damaged.
RT-730Portable APRS activation operator
Built-in APRS and Bluetooth support fit operators who track positions or run portable nets.
HA2Rugged outdoor field operator
An IP67 rating and 403 gram body suit users who expect gear to survive rough conditions.
HA2Operator managing large channel lists
With 1024 channels, it handles crowded channel lists far better than a 199-channel radio.
HA2
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-730
- 57% cheaper ($39.00 vs $89.99)
Reasons to choose Retevis HA2
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 199)
- 12% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
- Has APRS support
- Has Bluetooth
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-730
$39.00 on AmazonRetevis HA2PICK
$89.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

