The Retevis RA79 is the clear winner here. Despite costing less than half the price of the HA1G, it achieves a significantly higher overall score of 60 versus 34, making it the superior choice by a considerable margin.
The single most important differentiator is value for money. The RA79 delivers better performance at a fraction of the cost, which is remarkable given both radios share identical feature sets regarding DMR, APRS, GPS, and CHIRP compatibility.
The HA1G makes sense only for users who have a specific reason to prefer it, though the available data doesn't indicate what that would be. The RA79 is the logical choice for budget-conscious operators seeking a dependable handheld without sacrificing performance.
We recommend the Retevis RA79 without hesitation. It represents genuinely better value and higher quality in a compact package. Unless you have particular requirements that only the HA1G satisfies, buying the more expensive model would be a mistake. The RA79's superior score and lower price point make it the standout recommendation for amateur radio operators looking for a practical, affordable handheld transceiver.
By use case
First-time GMRS/POTA field operations
Its IP67 rating and higher channel count make it reliable for rough outdoor use.
Budget-conscious beginner exploring amateur bands
The significantly lower price point makes it an ideal entry point for new hams.
Emergency preparedness and multi-day camping
The IP67 rating and robust design ensure communication reliability in adverse weather.
Casual general communication and basic testing
It offers excellent value and necessary multi-band receive capabilities for general use.
New licensee needing reliable waterproof radio
The combination of waterproofing and advanced features suits new operators needing durability.
Made your choice?
Retevis HA1G
$71.99 on AmazonRetevis RA79PICK
$22.59 on Amazon