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RadioRanked

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Radtel RT-920 vs Retevis RA89

Our pick

Radtel RT-920$47.04

$47.04 on Amazon

The RT-920 is the better value choice. At $47 versus $67, the Radtel costs $20 less while delivering higher listed specifications and owner satisfaction. Owners report 4.3 out of 5 stars across 119 reviews for the RT-920, compared to 4.5 out of 5 across 278 reviews for the RA89. The RT-920 offers 8W transmit power, Bluetooth connectivity, and CHIRP support. We don't have the RA89's transmit power figure. The RA89's advantage is its IP68 weather rating and known weight of 295g; the RT-920's weight is unlisted. Neither radio supports DMR, APRS, GPS, D-STAR, or C4FM digital modes. Both support CHIRP programming.

The single most important differentiator is price combined with power and features: the RT-920 costs less, delivers known 8W output, includes Bluetooth, and earns strong owner ratings.

Buy the RT-920 if you want maximum value and Bluetooth capability. Buy the RA89 if weather sealing and known specifications matter most to you.

The RT-920 is the clearer recommendation for most buyers seeking an affordable, capable handheld.

Winner
Radtel RT-920
Radtel RT-920

$47.04

$47.04 on Amazon
See full review and specs
Runner-up
Retevis RA89
Retevis RA89
Search on Amazon
See full review and specs

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious operator on a tight spending limit

    Costs less than the alternative while offering 960 memory channels and 8W transmit power.

    RT-920

  • Complete beginner needing an easy first handheld

    Scores higher for beginner friendliness and includes CHIRP support for simpler programming.

    Retevis RA89

  • ARES or RACES volunteer working in harsh weather

    Its IP68 rating and 295g build suit rugged deployments exposed to rain and dust.

    Retevis RA89

  • Shack companion or go-bag buyer wanting broad monitoring

    Holds 960 channels and includes Bluetooth, suiting a shack companion or go-bag role.

    RT-920

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 5x more memory channels (960 vs 200)
  • Has Bluetooth

Reasons to choose Retevis RA89

  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • IP68 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-920SpecRetevis RA89
$47.04
Price
—
69
Overall Score
49
+41% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
—
960
Memory Channels
200
4.8× difference
—
Weight
295g
2200 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+14% for winner
—
Display
LCD
—
IP Rating
IP68
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Standard
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Standard
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
dual band
RT-920
Model Number
RA89
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
Built-In Media
1 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, User Manual
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Smartphones, USB-C devices
Compatible Devices
Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
Additional Features
Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range
1 Year
Warranty Description
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
1.57"D x 2"W x 10.62"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.69"D x 2.44"W x 4.96"H

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-920PICK

$47.04 on Amazon

Retevis RA89

Search on Amazon

More head-to-heads

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