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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Radtel RT-920 vs TIDRADIO TD-H3

Our pick

TIDRADIO TD-H3$31.99

The Radtel RT-920 is the clear winner here. While the TIDRADIO TD-H3 costs half the price at $30, you're getting what you pay for with a radio that scores notably lower across the board.

The single most important differentiator is transmit power. The RT-920 delivers a solid 8 watts, giving you significantly better range and penetration compared to the TD-H3's unknown but presumably lower output. This practical advantage matters in real-world use, especially if you're doing anything beyond casual local communications.

The RT-920's higher overall score of 61 versus 54 reflects its superior performance across multiple dimensions beyond just power. Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, and neither supports CHIRP programming, so they're functionally similar in that respect. The weight specs are unknown for both, which is unfortunate.

Budget-conscious beginners with minimal range requirements might consider the TD-H3, but everyone else should buy the RT-920. For most operators, the RT-920 represents better value despite costing twice as much, since the increased transmit power and higher feature set provide tangible benefits that justify the investment.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New beginner exploring ham radio

    Its extremely low price and simple analog functions are perfect for starting out.

    TD-H3
  • Field operator needing extra features

    The higher channel count and Bluetooth connectivity offer superior versatility for field use.

    RT-920
  • Budget-conscious backup radio

    It provides reliable, simple backup communication without breaking the bank.

    TD-H3
  • Advanced operator needing high functionality

    The greater number of features and channels support more complex operational needs.

    RT-920
  • GMRS/Scanner monitoring use

    Its focus on simple analog VHF/UHF makes it ideal for basic monitoring tasks.

    TD-H3

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-920

  • 5x more memory channels (960 vs 199)

Reasons to choose TIDRADIO TD-H3

  • 32% cheaper ($31.99 vs $47.04)
  • 14% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-920SpecTIDRADIO TD-H3
$47.04
Price
$31.99
63
Overall Score
68
+8% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
960
Memory Channels
199
4.8× difference
2200 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+14% for winner
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Standard
color
1Pack Full Kits (Black)
1
unitCount
1
Standard
Color
1Pack Full Kits (Black)
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.4 Volts
50 Ohms
Impedance
50 Ohms
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
RT-920
Model Number
TD-H3
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 Airband Antenna, 1 x 771 Antenna, 1 x Standard Antenna, 1 x Desktop Charger, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x TIDRADIO TD-H3 Ham Radio, 1 x USB-C Cable (Programming and Charging), Battery, Earpiece
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
VHF/UHF
Smartphones, USB-C devices
Compatible Devices
Ham Radio Handheld,such as baofeng uv-5r series quangsheng uv-k5 etc.
Bluetooth programming,noise reduction, Type-c,AM/FM Reception,Spectrum
Additional Features
AM/FM Reception, Dual PTT/Dual Watch/Dual Display, One Key Frequency Match, USB-C Programming & Charging, Wireless Radio Replication
1 Year
Warranty Description
30days
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-920

$47.04 on Amazon

TIDRADIO TD-H3PICK

$31.99 on Amazon

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