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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Radtel RT-860 vs Radtel RT-950 PRO

Our pick

Radtel RT-950 PRO$91.19

The Radtel RT-950 PRO is the clear winner for most users. While it costs more than double the RT-860, you're getting substantially more radio for your money with a significantly higher overall score of 75 versus 48.

The single most important differentiator is the RT-950 PRO's integrated APRS and GPS capabilities. These features add real utility for emergency communication and location tracking, completely absent from the RT-860. The RT-950 PRO also offers confirmed 4W transmit power, whereas the RT-860's power output remains unknown.

The RT-860 makes sense only for users with an extremely tight budget who need nothing more than basic VHF/UHF two-way communication and accept unknown performance specifications as acceptable risk. The RT-950 PRO should appeal to anyone who wants a capable modern handheld with location awareness and proven performance metrics.

If you can afford the $79 price point, the RT-950 PRO is the obvious choice. It delivers better features, confirmed specifications, and nearly 60 percent higher overall scores. The RT-860's unknown specifications and minimal capabilities make it a risky purchase despite its low price.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-860
Winner
Radtel RT-950 PRO

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner focusing on basic local VHF/UHF comms

    Its simple analog features and low price make it perfect for starting out.

    RT-860
  • Advanced operator needing GPS and APRS tracking

    The built-in GPS and APRS support offer advanced functionality for field use.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Budget-conscious buyer needing high channel memory

    The RT-860 offers a massive channel count at a significantly lower price point.

    RT-860
  • Prepper needing emergency kit with multiple features

    The combination of APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth makes it a versatile emergency radio.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Operator prioritizing simplicity and low cost

    It provides core analog functionality without the complexity or cost of extra features.

    RT-860

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860

  • 57% cheaper ($39.00 vs $91.19)
  • 7% more memory channels (1,024 vs 960)

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO

  • 10% more battery (2200 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-860SpecRadtel RT-950 PRO
$39.00
Price
$91.19
45
Overall Score
77
+72% for winner
TX Power (High)
4.00W
1024
Memory Channels
960
+6% for winner
2000 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+10% for winner
Display
Color LCD
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
With SW/MW Antennas
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
With SW/MW Antennas
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
UHF VHF AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception,
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
RT-860
Model Number
RT-950 PRO
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
Built-In Media
1x RT-950 PRO Main unit, 1x 2200mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,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-860
Mfr Part Number
Black
External antennas (50 ohm)
Compatible Devices
Smartphones, Desktops
1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception
Additional Features
27MHz TX/RX at FM Modulation with power 3-4W,Shortwave ML/LW/SW/USB/LSB/CW Reception, Bluetooth App Programming,High Output Power,GPS/APRS Position Sending, Channel Zone Function,Full-Color Display,PC Programming, Integrated Spectrum Analyzer,Wireless Frequency Copy,NOAA Weather Channel Support
1 Year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
1.18"D x 2.36"W x 4.72"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.57"D x 2"W x 13.79"H

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-860

$39.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-950 PROPICK

$91.19 on Amazon

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