RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Retevis HA2 vs Retevis HD2
Our pick
Retevis HD2$179.99
The Retevis HD2 is the clear winner for most users, though the choice depends on your specific needs and budget constraints.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The HD2 includes DMR digital mode, GPS, and APRS capability, while the HA2 offers only APRS. These additional features justify the $80 price premium, especially if digital communication or location tracking matters to your operations.
The HA2 suits budget-conscious operators who need basic analog VHF/UHF capability with APRS and aren't interested in DMR or GPS functionality. The HD2 is the better choice for anyone wanting a more capable handheld that covers digital modes and location services without spending significantly more.
Our recommendation is the Retevis HD2. It delivers superior versatility for a modest price increase and carries a higher overall score that reflects its broader capability. Unless your budget is strictly limited to $100 or you've specifically determined you don't need DMR and GPS, the HD2 provides better long-term value. The gap between their scores is modest enough that budget becomes secondary to the HD2's clear feature advantage.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee on a budget
Costs less and has a simpler interface, making it the easier starting point for new operators.
HA2Digital DMR network operator
Only this model supports DMR, letting you join digital talkgroups alongside analog repeater traffic.
HD2Hobbyist wanting CHIRP programming
Hobbyist who wants CHIRP programming and APRS at a lower cost.
HA2EMCOMM team coordinating outdoor activations
GPS and a larger 3000-channel memory suit emergency teams coordinating outdoor activations.
HD2Weight-conscious field operator
At 365 grams, it is lighter than the alternative, which matters on long carries.
HD2Portable APRS net operator
A rugged, lower-cost radio with APRS and a simpler interface suits regular portable net check-ins.
HA2
Reasons to choose Retevis HA2
- 50% cheaper ($89.99 vs $179.99)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Retevis HD2
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,024)
- 14% more battery (3200 mAh vs 2800 mAh)
- 38g lighter (365g vs 403g)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has built-in GPS
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Retevis HA2
$89.99 on AmazonRetevis HD2PICK
$179.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

