RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-880G vs Retevis HA2
Our pick
Radtel RT-880G$97.50
The Radtel RT-880G is the clear winner between these two options. Both radios are budget-friendly alternatives positioned in the same price range, but the RT-880G edges out the Retevis HA2 with a marginally higher overall score and a meaningful feature advantage.
The single most important differentiator is GPS functionality. The RT-880G includes built-in GPS while the HA2 does not. For users who value location tracking, emergency beacon capabilities, or APRS position reporting, this feature alone justifies the choice. Both radios support APRS for digital messaging and location sharing, but only the RT-880G can automatically capture and transmit your position.
The RT-880G is better suited for operators who want basic GPS and APRS capabilities on a minimal budget and don't require programming software flexibility. The Retevis HA2 makes sense only if you specifically prefer a lighter feature set and can live without GPS functionality.
Given the minimal price difference of just five dollars and the RT-880G's superior feature set, the Radtel RT-880G is the better overall value. It delivers more functionality without requiring additional financial investment.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious SOTA activator on summits
Costs less and adds GPS and APRS, suiting lightweight summit activations on a tight budget.
RT-880GRugged field group needing dust and water resistance
Its IP67 rating tolerates dust and temporary submersion, a rating the Radtel does not list.
HA2First-time licensee wanting easier handheld operation
Its simpler handling and Bluetooth support make it more approachable for newcomers to handhelds.
HA2Hiking group tracking positions on a budget
Built-in GPS with APRS and the lower price suit field groups tracking positions without overspending.
RT-880GAPRS net operators wanting flexible programming
CHIRP support and Bluetooth give net operators more programming flexibility and easier channel management.
HA2
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G
- 62g lighter (341g vs 403g)
- Has built-in GPS
Reasons to choose Retevis HA2
- 8% cheaper ($89.99 vs $97.50)
- 17% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
- Has Bluetooth
- IP67 water resistance
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-880GPICK
$97.50 on AmazonRetevis HA2
$89.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

