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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Radtel RT-950 PRO vs Retevis A3

Our pick

Radtel RT-950 PRO$86.63

The Radtel RT-950 PRO is the clear winner for most users.

The single most important differentiator is feature set. The RT-950 PRO includes GPS and APRS capabilities for $17 less than the A3, which has neither feature. The RT-950 PRO also delivers a specified 4W transmit power, while the A3's power output is unknown. Owner ratings show the RT-950 PRO at 4.1 stars from 371 reviews versus the A3 at 3.6 stars from just 31 reviews—a meaningful gap in buyer feedback, though the smaller sample size for the A3 limits certainty about long-term owner satisfaction.

The A3's only concrete advantage is a known weight specification of 286g, while the RT-950 PRO's weight data is missing. Neither radio supports DMR or CHIRP programming, and both are handheld portables in a similar size class.

The RT-950 PRO should appeal to anyone needing location tracking or APRS messaging on a budget. The A3 might interest buyers in regions where its unknown features turn out to be advantageous, but without complete specifications, it's a riskier choice.

Buy the Radtel RT-950 PRO unless specific regional requirements or undocumented A3 capabilities apply to your use case.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner needing advanced features and GPS

    The RT-950 PRO offers crucial features like APRS and GPS for modern operations.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Strictly budget-focused NOAA monitoring

    The A3 provides basic, reliable VHF/UHF coverage at a significantly lower price point.

    A3
  • Portable emergency communications kit

    Its superior feature set and multiple bands make it ideal for diverse emergency scenarios.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • New operator needing basic multi-band coverage

    The A3 is simple, affordable, and covers the necessary analog VHF/UHF bands.

    A3
  • Advanced operator needing digital modes (DMR)

    The RT-950 PRO's advanced capabilities support modern digital and IP connectivity.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO

  • 20% cheaper ($86.63 vs $107.99)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has color TFT display

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

Radtel RT-950 PROSpecRetevis A3
$86.63
Price
$107.99
77
Overall Score
27
2.9× difference
4.00W
TX Power (High)
—
960
Memory Channels
999
+4% for winner
—
Weight
286g
2200 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
+14% for winner
Color LCD
Display
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Green
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-950 PROPICK

$86.63 on Amazon

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