RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Radtel RT-920 vs Retevis A3
Our pick
Radtel RT-920$47.04
The Radtel RT-920 is the clear winner for most users.
The single most important differentiator is price combined with owner satisfaction. The RT-920 costs less than half the price of the Retevis A3 at $47 versus $108, while owners report significantly better experiences: 4.3 out of 5 stars across 119 reviews compared to the A3's 3.6 stars from only 31 reviews. RadioRanked's Overall Score reflects this reality, showing the RT-920 delivers better listed specifications for the money.
Both radios share the same core limitations: no DMR, APRS, or GPS capability, and neither supports CHIRP programming. The RT-920 specifies 8 watts of transmit power; we lack the A3's TX power figure. The A3's weight of 286 grams is noted, but the RT-920's weight is unknown, so we cannot compare portability directly.
The RT-920 should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want proven reliability based on owner feedback. The A3 might interest someone with specific needs not reflected in our data, though the evidence supporting it is sparse.
Buy the Radtel RT-920 unless you have particular requirements that demand the Retevis A3's features or form factor.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Beginner exploring ham radio
Its higher features score and beginner focus make it an easier entry point.
RT-920Budget-constrained emergency monitoring
The lower price point and wide-band capability suit field monitoring.
RT-920New licensed technician needing basic coverage
It provides basic multi-band coverage and is ideal for simple repeater use.
A3Operator needing simple NOAA/repeater access
The dedicated analog VHF/UHF focus is perfect for these specific monitoring tasks.
A3Portable field operator (POTA/SOTA)
Its higher power output and portability axes make it better for field work.
RT-920
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920
- 56% cheaper ($47.04 vs $107.99)
- Has Bluetooth
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 4% more memory channels (999 vs 960)
- 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-920PICK
$47.04 on AmazonRetevis A3
$107.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

