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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Retevis HA1UV vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

Our pick

Retevis HA1UV$69.99

The Retevis HA1UV is the clear winner here. Despite costing less than a third of the price, it scores nearly twice as high overall and offers CHIRP compatibility for easy programming, a feature the Wouxun lacks entirely. The most important differentiator is the overall performance score: the HA1UV's 63/100 versus the Wouxun's disappointing 33/100 tells you everything you need to know about build quality, features, and user satisfaction.

The HA1UV suits operators seeking a budget-friendly dual-band handheld that doesn't compromise on reliability and programming flexibility. The Wouxun appeals only to those with very specific legacy requirements or existing infrastructure that demands this particular model, though its lower score suggests even then you're making a significant compromise.

Given the massive performance gap and price advantage, the Retevis HA1UV is the straightforward recommendation for virtually any amateur radio operator in the market for an entry-level handheld. The Wouxun's higher price point combined with its substantially lower score makes it difficult to justify unless you have unusual operational constraints not reflected in these specs.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New ham radio beginners starting out

    It offers excellent beginner features and a rugged design for learning.

    HA1UV
  • Operator needing basic analog monitoring

    Its dedicated analog focus and high channel count are perfect for monitoring.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Budget-conscious local repeater work

    The low price point and sufficient features make it ideal for local repeater use.

    HA1UV
  • Experienced user needing reliable analog comms

    Its robust analog performance and high power output provide reliable communication.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Portable outdoor operations (POTA/SOTA)

    The IP67 rating and portability score make it excellent for rugged outdoor use.

    HA1UV

Reasons to choose Retevis HA1UV

  • 61% cheaper ($69.99 vs $179.99)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display
  • IP67 water resistance

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

  • 4x more memory channels (999 vs 256)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis HA1UVSpecWouxun KG-UV9D Plus
$69.99
Price
$179.99
61
Overall Score
35
+75% for winner
TX Power (High)
5.00W
256
Memory Channels
999
3.8× difference
2800 mAh
Battery
Color LCD
Display
IP67
IP Rating
No grant found
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7 Volts
U/V band
Tuner Type
UHF
337 Grams
Item Weight
250 Grams
HA1UV
Model Number
KG UV9D Plus
40 Decibels
Audible Noise
2 Decibels
U/V band
Frequency Range
136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz
Repeater, Speaker, two way radio with the same frequency and the same CTCSS/DCS
Compatible Devices
RM
Handheld Ham Radio with Cable;IP67 waterproof;NOAA Weather Receiver;Type-C Rechargeable;VFO
Additional Features
Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater
2.36"D x 8.07"W x 10.03"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.97"D x 3.94"W x 5.12"H

Made your choice?

Retevis HA1UVPICK

$69.99 on Amazon

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

$179.99 on Amazon

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