RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Retevis HA1UV vs Yaesu FT-60R
Our pick
Retevis HA1UV$69.99
The Retevis HA1UV wins on price and value proposition. At $56 versus $210, the Retevis costs a quarter of the Yaesu's price. Both radios lack digital modes and GPS, both support CHIRP programming, and both weigh nearly the same. The Retevis carries an IP67 weather rating; the Yaesu lists none. Owners report 4.6 stars across 47 Retevis reviews and 4.5 stars across 212 Yaesu reviews, showing consistent satisfaction for both despite the large sample size difference.
The single most important differentiator is the $154 price gap with no meaningful specification advantage to the Yaesu. The Yaesu does offer 5W transmit power while the Retevis spec is unknown, but this alone does not justify four times the cost given identical feature sets otherwise.
Buy the Retevis HA1UV if you need a budget handheld that owners report performing well and can handle wet conditions. Buy the Yaesu FT-60R if you specifically need the confirmed 5W output or already use Yaesu equipment and value that ecosystem integration.
The Retevis HA1UV is the clear choice for most buyers seeking basic VHF/UHF capability at an entry-level price.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee starting on local repeaters
Its beginner-friendly design and CHIRP programming support make it an easy first radio for new Technicians.
HA1UVBudget-conscious buyer wanting VHF and UHF coverage
It costs much less than the alternative while still covering both VHF and UHF bands for local repeater use.
HA1UVOutdoor user needing a rugged handheld
Its IP67 rating offers dust and water protection that suits rough field conditions well.
HA1UVEmergency preparedness buyer wanting a backup radio
Its higher 5W transmit power and 1000-channel memory make it a dependable backup for search and rescue work.
FT-60ROperator who prefers simple analog radio
It is a pure analog VHF and UHF radio with no digital modes to complicate routine repeater monitoring.
FT-60RBuyer prioritizing lighter carry weight
At 337 grams it is lighter than the alternative, which helps during long days of portable operation.
HA1UV
Reasons to choose Retevis HA1UV
- 100% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- 33g lighter (337g vs 370g)
- Has color TFT display
- IP67 water resistance
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R
- 4x more memory channels (1,000 vs 256)
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Retevis HA1UVPICK
$69.99 on AmazonYaesu FT-60R
Search on AmazonMore head-to-heads