RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Radtel RT-860 vs TIDRADIO TD-H3
Our pick
TIDRADIO TD-H3$31.99
The TD-H3 is the better choice for most buyers. Both radios offer nearly identical core specifications, with unknown transmit power figures and identical feature sets regarding DMR, APRS, and GPS. The TD-H3 edges ahead with CHIRP support for easier programming, weighs slightly less at 245g versus 255g, and costs seven dollars less at $32.
The most important differentiator is owner feedback. The TD-H3 has generated 534 Amazon reviews averaging 4.4 stars, while the RT-860 has 139 reviews averaging 3.9 stars. This broader owner base and higher satisfaction rating provides meaningful real-world evidence that the TD-H3 resonates better with buyers.
The RT-860 makes sense only if you specifically need its unknown features or prefer smaller review samples, but this is hard to justify given the price and feature disadvantage.
The TD-H3 should be your default pick: it's cheaper, more programmable via CHIRP, lighter, and owners report better satisfaction across a large sample. Buy the RT-860 only if you have a particular reason to avoid the TD-H3.
The TD-H3 is the clear recommendation.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning on a tight budget
Costs less and includes CHIRP and Bluetooth support, which helps newcomers program and experiment easily.
TD-H3Operator needing a large channel memory
Offers 1024 channels, well above the 199 on the TIDRADIO, for busy local repeater lists.
RT-860Lightweight daily carry for portable outings
Weighs 245g versus 255g, a slightly lighter pick for pocket or pack carry.
TD-H3Repeater and simplex user wanting analog basics
Analog VHF and UHF coverage suits repeater and simplex work with a larger channel list.
RT-860Scanner listener interested in GMRS monitoring
Listed for GMRS and scanner monitoring use, so it fits receive-focused monitoring well.
TD-H3
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 199)
Reasons to choose TIDRADIO TD-H3
- 18% cheaper ($31.99 vs $39.00)
- 25% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2000 mAh)
- 10g lighter (245g vs 255g)
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-860
$39.00 on AmazonTIDRADIO TD-H3PICK
$31.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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