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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Radtel RT-880G vs Radtel RT-920

Our pick

Radtel RT-880G$97.50

The RT-880G is the clear winner for most users, despite costing more than double the RT-920's price. The most important differentiator is the feature set: the RT-880G includes GPS and APRS capability, while the RT-920 offers only Bluetooth connectivity. The RT-880G also delivers 2 watts more transmit power and generates slightly higher owner satisfaction, with 4.4 out of 5 stars from 152 reviews compared to the RT-920's 4.3 from 119 reviews. Both radios support CHIRP programming and lack published IP ratings. The RT-920 doesn't list weight, so we cannot compare portability. For operators who need GPS positioning or APRS packet capability, the RT-880G is the only option here. For users wanting budget-conscious basic FM operation with Bluetooth features, the RT-920 delivers functionality at half the price. Buy the RT-880G if you need APRS or GPS; buy the RT-920 if you want minimal features at minimal cost. The RT-880G represents better overall value for capability, though the RT-920 suits strict budget constraints.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious field operator on a tight budget

    It costs less than the alternative while still covering VHF and UHF for everyday field use.

    RT-920
  • First-time licensee exploring ham radio

    Its beginner score is higher and the lower price makes it a low-risk first handheld.

    RT-920
  • Wide-band monitoring and scanning enthusiast

    Its wider receive coverage suits listening across many frequencies without a large spend.

    RT-920
  • Shack companion or go-bag buyer

    It is lighter on the wallet and handles casual shack and backup duty well enough.

    RT-920
  • SOTA or POTA activator needing position reporting

    Its 10W output and APRS support suit portable activations that need position reporting.

    RT-880G
  • ARES member needing GPS and APRS

    Built-in APRS and GPS provide position reporting that emergency coordination groups rely on.

    RT-880G
  • Outdoor hiker or field group wanting multi-mode features

    It offers a higher feature score, with GPS and APRS for trail groups tracking positions.

    RT-880G

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G

  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • 7% more memory channels (1,024 vs 960)
  • 9% more battery (2400 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 52% cheaper ($47.04 vs $97.50)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-880GSpecRadtel RT-920
$97.50
Price
$47.04
75
Overall Score
69
+9% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+25% for winner
1024
Memory Channels
960
+6% for winner
341g
Weight
—
2400 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+9% for winner
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Standard
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Standard
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
AM/FM/SSB
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
RT-880G
Model Number
RT-920
1x RT-880G 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
Radtel two-way radios, devices on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies, compatible external antennas
Compatible Devices
Smartphones, USB-C devices
GPS/APRS, AM FM SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater
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-880GPICK

$97.50 on Amazon

Radtel RT-920

$47.04 on Amazon

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