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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Retevis HA2 vs Yaesu FT-70DR

Our pick

Retevis HA2$109.99

The Retevis HA2 is the clear winner despite its missing specifications. It outscores the Yaesu FT-70DR by 14 points overall and costs nearly three times less. The single most important differentiator is value for money. The HA2 delivers superior functionality at a fraction of the price, while the FT-70DR charges a premium for features you may not need.

The Retevis HA2 should appeal to budget-conscious operators and APRS enthusiasts who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. The Yaesu FT-70DR suits operators who prioritize CHIRP programmability and need the reassurance of a well-established brand with known specifications, though its higher cost and lower overall score make it harder to recommend.

Unless you have specific workflow requirements around CHIRP programming or need Yaesu's ecosystem compatibility, the HA2 represents substantially better value. The missing TX power and weight data for the HA2 are frustrating but not dealbreakers given its advantages elsewhere. If specifications matter more to you than price, consider looking at other options entirely, as neither radio excels in feature completeness.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New Technician class operator learning the hobby

    Its simpler operation and C4FM support suit a newcomer joining local Fusion repeaters.

    FT-70DR
  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest upfront cost

    Costs less while still offering VHF and UHF coverage, 1024 memories, and APRS support.

    HA2
  • Operator focused on C4FM Fusion repeater access

    The FT-70DR supports C4FM natively, while the HA2 lacks that digital mode.

    FT-70DR
  • Portable APRS activations and field net operators

    The HA2 adds APRS and Bluetooth, suited to portable activations and net check-ins in the field.

    HA2
  • Rugged outdoor user facing rain or dust

    The HA2 carries an IP67 rating, while the FT-70DR is only rated IP54 for limited splash resistance.

    HA2
  • Lightweight casual monitoring on the go

    The FT-70DR weighs 250 grams, noticeably lighter than the HA2's 403 grams for all-day carry.

    FT-70DR

Reasons to choose Retevis HA2

  • 63% cheaper ($109.99 vs $299.98)
  • 56% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has Bluetooth

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-70DR

  • 8% more memory channels (1,108 vs 1,024)
  • 153g lighter (250g vs 403g)
  • Has C4FM/System Fusion
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis HA2SpecYaesu FT-70DR
$109.99
Price
$299.98
66
Overall Score
49
+35% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
1024
Memory Channels
1108
+9% for winner
403g
Weight
250g
+61% difference
2800 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
+56% for winner
—
Display
LCD
IP67
IP Rating
IP54
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
black
Black
Color
black, orange
7.4 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts (DC)
Ailunce HA2
Model Number
FT 70DR
1 x 2800mAh Battery, 1 x Belt clip & Hand strap, 1 x Data cable & Earpiece, 1 x HA2 Two Way Radio
Built-In Media
Battery, Charger
APP Control, Bluetooth, IP 67 Waterproof
Additional Features
Mars/Cap Modification for Extended Transmit Frequency Ranges

Made your choice?

Retevis HA2PICK

$109.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-70DR

$299.98 on Amazon

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