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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Retevis HA2 vs Yaesu VX-6R

Our pick

Retevis HA2$89.99

The HA2 is the better choice for most users. The single most important differentiator is price: the HA2 costs $100 versus $330 for the VX-6R, a $230 gap that overwhelms the minor spec differences between them.

Both radios lack DMR and GPS. The VX-6R has known 5W transmit power and weighs 270g, while the HA2's transmit power is unlisted and it weighs 403g. The HA2 includes APRS capability and IP67 weather sealing; the VX-6R lists no IP rating and lacks APRS. The VX-6R supports CHIRP programming while the HA2 does not. These tradeoffs roughly balance.

Owner feedback slightly favors the VX-6R at 4.6/5 stars from 238 reviews versus 5.0/5 from only 2 reviews for the HA2, but the HA2's tiny sample size makes it an unreliable indicator. The VX-6R's larger review base at least reflects consistent user experience across many owners.

The HA2 should appeal to budget-conscious operators and those who value APRS and weather sealing. The VX-6R suits users who prioritize lighter weight and CHIRP compatibility and can afford the premium.

Recommendation: Buy the HA2 unless you specifically need the VX-6R's lighter weight or CHIRP support.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-minded buyer wanting maximum features

    The Retevis HA2 offers a higher value rating and far more features, including APRS and Bluetooth, for the money.

    HA2
  • Weight-sensitive SOTA summit activator

    The Yaesu VX-6R weighs 270g, noticeably lighter than the 403g Retevis HA2 for long summit climbs.

    VX-6R
  • Emergency communications volunteer

    The VX-6R's simpler feature set and 5W transmit power suit straightforward emergency net duty.

    VX-6R
  • First-time licensee wanting easier operation

    The Retevis HA2 scores higher for beginner friendliness, making its setup less intimidating to start.

    HA2
  • APRS and data-focused field operator

    APRS support and Bluetooth on the Retevis HA2 cover tracking and data needs the VX-6R does not address.

    HA2
  • Hiker wanting a lightweight backup radio

    The VX-6R's lighter build and 999-channel memory suit hikers who want a simple, portable backup radio.

    VX-6R

Reasons to choose Retevis HA2

  • 3% more memory channels (1,024 vs 999)
  • 100% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has Bluetooth
  • IP67 water resistance

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 133g lighter (270g vs 403g)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis HA2SpecYaesu VX-6R
$89.99
Price
—
69
Overall Score
50
+39% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
1024
Memory Channels
999
+2% for winner
403g
Weight
270g
+49% difference
2800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
2.0× difference
IP67
IP Rating
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts (DC)
Voltage
3.7 Volts (DC)
Ailunce HA2
Model Number
VX-6R
FA9312A-J9131A-J9131P-C9034D
Mfr Part Number
VX-6R
IP67
Waterproof Rating
JIS7
APP Control, Bluetooth, IP 67 Waterproof
Additional Features
Waterproof
2.36"D x 8.07"W x 10.03"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Retevis HA2PICK

$89.99 on Amazon

Yaesu VX-6R

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