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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Retevis RT85 vs Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio

Our pick

Retevis RT85$49.99

The RT85 is the clear winner for most buyers. Both radios offer identical core specs: 5W output, no digital modes, and CHIRP compatibility on the RT85. The RT85 costs half as much at $50 versus $106, and owners report notably higher satisfaction at 4.5 stars from 270 reviews compared to the Wouxun's 4.0 stars from 158 reviews. The single most important differentiator is price and owner feedback combined. The Wouxun has an IP55 rating we do not have for the RT85, but this is the only listed advantage and does not justify the $56 premium. The RT85 should appeal to anyone seeking an affordable entry-level handheld with strong owner support and CHIRP programming flexibility. The Wouxun may interest users who specifically need documented water and dust resistance and can accept the higher cost and heavier weight. For most operators, the RT85 delivers better value.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee

    It costs less and its beginner-friendly design suits someone just starting out on local repeaters.

    Retevis RT85
  • Operator needing CHIRP programming support

    It supports CHIRP, making channel programming easier than with the analog-only Wouxun.

    Retevis RT85
  • Buyer prioritizing lighter, more portable handheld

    It weighs 253g, which is heavier, so this scenario favors the Retevis RT85 at 227g instead.

    Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
  • Field operator needing water and dust resistance

    It carries an IP55 rating for dust and water resistance, which the Retevis RT85 does not list.

    Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
  • Local simplex and repeater user wanting more features

    It offers a higher feature score for basic dual-band VHF and UHF work at similar 5W power.

    Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
  • Operator needing digital modes like DMR

    Neither radio supports digital modes, but the Retevis RT85 at least offers CHIRP programming and a lower cost for analog use.

    Retevis RT85

Reasons to choose Retevis RT85

  • 53% cheaper ($49.99 vs $105.99)
  • 1% more memory channels (200 vs 199)
  • 26g lighter (227g vs 253g)

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio

  • IP55 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis RT85SpecWouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio
$49.99
Price
$105.99
64
Overall Score
47
+37% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
200
Memory Channels
199
227g
Weight
253g
+11% difference
—
Battery
1700 mAh
LCD
Display
—
—
IP Rating
IP55
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
7.4 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts
RT85
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
FA9195AX2
Model Number
KG-UV6D
2 x Retevis RT85 two-way radio, 2 x battery, 2 x antenna, 2 x charger, 2 x user manual, 2 x sling
Built-In Media
Li-ion Battery Pack (1700mAh), Charger, Antenna, Belt Clip, OTH-005, Hand Strap
FA9195AX2
Mfr Part Number
KG-UV6D
Radio
Compatible Devices
Yaesu, ICOM, FRS two-way radios, and the included antenna
LCD display, dual band and dual display
Additional Features
Waterproof
12 Hours
Battery Average Life
70 Hours

Made your choice?

Retevis RT85PICK

$49.99 on Amazon

Wouxun KG-UV6D Two Way Radio

$105.99 on Amazon

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