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RadioRanked

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Retevis HD2 vs Y23UV-98PLUS

Our pick

Retevis HD2$179.99

$179.99 on Amazon

The Y23UV-98PLUS is the better value choice for most users. While the Retevis HD2 offers DMR capability and costs $95 more, the Y23UV-98PLUS delivers superior overall performance at half the price with a marginally higher review score of 72 versus 69.

The most significant differentiator is cost versus features. The HD2's DMR support is its primary advantage, justifying the premium only if digital mode communications are essential to your needs. Both radios share GPS and APRS functionality, but the Y23UV-98PLUS's confirmed 10W transmit power and lower price point make it the more practical choice for general use.

Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS if you want reliable dual-band capability with GPS tracking and APRS without breaking the bank. Purchase the Retevis HD2 only if DMR is a mandatory requirement for your radio group or area coverage.

The Y23UV-98PLUS wins as the smarter purchase for the majority of amateur radio operators. Its combination of proven performance, lower cost, and nearly identical capabilities makes it the easy recommendation. The $95 savings could fund accessories or upgrades elsewhere in your station.

Winner
Retevis HD2
Retevis HD2

$179.99

$179.99 on Amazon
See full review and specs
Runner-up
Y23UV-98PLUS
Y23UV-98PLUS

$78.28

$78.28 on Amazon
See full review and specs

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee on a tight budget

    Costs less and has beginner-friendly operation, which suits a first radio purchase.

    Y23UV-98PLUS

  • Operator wanting DMR and analog on one radio

    Supports DMR alongside analog VHF and UHF, a mode the Y23UV-98PLUS does not offer.

    HD2

  • Emergency communications team needing rugged gear

    IP67 rating and higher feature density suit field deployments facing weather and rough handling.

    HD2

  • Camper wanting basic APRS position tracking

    Includes APRS and GPS at a lower cost, covering basic position reporting without extra digital features.

    Y23UV-98PLUS

  • Hobbyist managing many repeaters

    Stores 3000 channels, nearly triple the Y23UV-98PLUS's 1024, for managing many repeaters.

    HD2

Reasons to choose Retevis HD2

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,024)
  • 33% more battery (3200 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has Bluetooth
  • IP67 water resistance

Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS

  • 57% cheaper ($78.28 vs $179.99)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis HD2SpecY23UV-98PLUS
$179.99
Price
$78.28
77
Overall Score
71
+9% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
10.00W
3000
Memory Channels
1024
2.9× difference
365g
Weight
—
3200 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+33% for winner
—
Display
TFT Color
IP67
IP Rating
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
7.4 Volts
Voltage
7.38 Volts
HD2
Model Number
Y23UV-98PLUS
Antenna ×1;User's Manual ×1, Belt Clip ×1;SIing ×1;BIuetoothEarpiece ×1, Retevis AiIunce HD2 Radio Body ×1, Type-C Desktop Charger ×1, USB Type-C Charging CabIe ×1;Battery ×1
Built-In Media
1x Y23UV-98PLUS Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port，1x MW Antenna, 1x SW Antenna,1x English User Manual
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Bluetooth-enabled headsets or earpro
Compatible Devices
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
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
1024 Chlannels, AM FM SSB R Eeception, Adjustable Receiver Sensitivity, Cross Band Repeater, GPS/APRS
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
Warranty Description
1 Year
2.56"D x 5.91"W x 1.38"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H

Made your choice?

Retevis HD2PICK

$179.99 on Amazon

Y23UV-98PLUS

$78.28 on Amazon

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