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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Retevis HD2 vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

Our pick

Retevis HD2$179.99

The HD2 offers significantly better listed specifications for the money, with DMR, APRS, and GPS capabilities that the KG-UV9D Plus entirely lacks. Both radios cost $180, but the HD2's feature set is substantially more advanced. However, we lack the HD2's transmit power specification, which is a notable gap in our data.

The most important differentiator is the feature set. The HD2 targets digital modes and location capability, while the KG-UV9D Plus is a simpler analog dual-band radio.

The HD2 suits operators who need digital modes, APRS reporting, and GPS functionality in a capable package. The KG-UV9D Plus is for those prioritizing lightweight portability and straightforward analog operation, though owners report slightly higher satisfaction at 4.2 stars versus 4.0 stars for the HD2 across their respective review populations.

Buy the HD2 if you want modern digital radio capabilities at a competitive price. The KG-UV9D Plus makes sense only if weight is critical and you have no use for DMR or APRS, accepting that you're paying the same price for substantially fewer features.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained first-time analog user

    Costs less and weighs less, covering basic analog FM needs without digital features to learn.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • DMR or APRS digital mode operator

    Only this radio supports DMR and APRS, making it the choice for digital mode operators.

    HD2
  • Emergency communications team working outdoors

    An IP67 rating and a higher feature score suit EMCOMM teams working in rough field conditions.

    HD2
  • Casual airband and broadcast listener

    Analog VHF and UHF coverage with a lighter body suits casual airband and broadcast listening.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Hiker doing casual summit or park activations

    Lower weight makes it an easier carry for hikers doing casual summit or park activations.

    KG-UV9D Plus

Reasons to choose Retevis HD2

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • IP67 water resistance

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

  • 115g lighter (250g vs 365g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis HD2SpecWouxun KG-UV9D Plus
$179.99
Price
$179.99
77
Overall Score
41
+89% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
3000
Memory Channels
999
3.0× difference
365g
Weight
250g
+47% difference
3200 mAh
Battery
—
IP67
IP Rating
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7 Volts
u/v
Tuner Type
UHF
HD2
Model Number
KG UV9D Plus
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz
Bluetooth-enabled headsets or earpro
Compatible Devices
RM
Ham Radio with Cable;Analog & Digital Mode;IP67 Waterproof;3200mAh Battery & Type c Charging;VFO, ham radio handheld; amateur radio;digital ham radio; two way radio; walkie talkies long range
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
2.56"D x 5.91"W x 1.38"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.97"D x 3.94"W x 5.12"H

Made your choice?

Retevis HD2PICK

$179.99 on Amazon

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

$179.99 on Amazon

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