Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Radtel RT-880 vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Radtel RT-920$47.04

The RT-920 is the clear winner. Despite costing 24 percent less, it delivers a higher overall score and provides specified 8W transmit power, while the RT-880's power output remains unknown. Both radios lack modern features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, and neither supports CHIRP programming, making them fairly basic units. The single most important differentiator is that the RT-920 combines lower price with better performance ratings, eliminating any reason to spend more on the RT-880.

The RT-880 makes sense only if you specifically need its particular form factor or frequency coverage, but even then you're paying a premium for less documented capability. The RT-920 is the logical choice for budget-conscious operators seeking a straightforward handheld without specialty digital modes.

We recommend the RT-920 unless you have a specific operational requirement the RT-880 uniquely fulfills. Given Radtel's product positioning and the data available, the RT-920 represents better value and proven performance. If you need DMR, APRS, or CHIRP compatibility, neither radio will satisfy you, and you should look at competing products at higher price points.

Runner-up
Radtel RT-880

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner exploring ham radio

    Its lower price and Bluetooth feature make it an easy, low-risk entry point.

    RT-920
  • Experienced operator needing maximum channel count

    The 1024 channel memory is ideal for operators covering multiple regions.

    RT-880
  • Portable operator for POTA/SOTA field use

    Its excellent value and portability make it perfect for quick, outdoor deployments.

    RT-920
  • Technician needing multi-band analog coverage

    It offers dedicated analog VHF/UHF functionality for reliable, classic operation.

    RT-880
  • User prioritizing overall value and ease of use

    The combination of features and lower cost provides superior overall value.

    RT-920

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880

  • 7% more memory channels (1,024 vs 960)
  • 9% more battery (2400 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 36% cheaper ($47.04 vs $74.00)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-880SpecRadtel RT-920
$74.00
Price
$47.04
52
Overall Score
63
+20% for winner
TX Power (High)
8.00W
1024
Memory Channels
960
+6% for winner
2400 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+9% for winner
TFT Color
Display
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Standard
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Standard
Color
Standard
7.38 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
AM/FM/SSB
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
RT-880
Model Number
RT-920
1x RT-880 Main unit, 1x 2400mAh 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
Built-In Media
1x RT-920 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
Two-way radios, headsets, earpieces, external antennas, operating on UHF, VHF, AM, FM, USB, LSB, CW, CB, LW, MW, SW, and SSB frequencies and modes
Compatible Devices
Smartphones, USB-C devices
AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater Function
Additional Features
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
1 Year
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.57"D x 2"W x 10.62"H

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-880

$74.00 on Amazon

Radtel RT-920PICK

$47.04 on Amazon

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons