RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Retevis RT95 vs TYT TH-9800
Our pick
Retevis RT95$125.99
The Retevis RT95 emerges as the winner here, primarily due to its significantly lower price and higher overall score despite missing some specifications. At $130 versus $220, it represents substantially better value for amateur radio operators on a budget.
The single most important differentiator is price. The RT95 undercuts the TYT TH-9800 by $90 while scoring 6 points higher overall. Both radios lack advanced features like DMR, APRS, and GPS, and both support CHIRP programming, so you're choosing between two fairly basic mobile rigs.
The RT95 suits operators who prioritize affordability and want a straightforward mobile radio without frills. The TYT TH-9800 makes sense for those specifically needing the confirmed 50-watt transmission power and willing to pay extra for it, though the RT95's unknown wattage is a gap worth investigating before purchase.
Buy the Retevis RT95. It delivers better value and higher performance ratings at a price point that won't strain your budget. Only consider the TYT if you need documented 50-watt output for specific long-distance operating scenarios, but verify the RT95's power specs first since they're not listed.
By use case
Which should you buy?
New amateur radio operator on a tight budget
It costs less and its simpler controls suit a newcomer learning mobile operation without a steep learning curve.
Retevis RT95Budget-conscious buyer building a first mobile setup
Its lower purchase price leaves room in the budget for an antenna, cable, and mounting hardware.
Retevis RT95Technician wanting 10m and 6m FM mobile access
Only this radio covers 10m and 6m alongside VHF and UHF, avoiding a separate HF rig for those FM bands.
TH-9800Ham who travels and wants one mobile for all four bands
Its 10m, 6m, VHF, and UHF coverage gives one mobile for a wider range of FM activity while traveling.
TH-9800Operator near an airport wanting air band monitoring
It offers incidental air band AM receive, which the lower-cost radio does not provide.
TH-9800Operator needing a lighter, compact dual-band mobile
At 645 grams it is roughly half the weight of the 1200 gram alternative, easing mounting in tight spaces.
Retevis RT95
Reasons to choose Retevis RT95
- 43% cheaper ($125.99 vs $219.99)
- 555g lighter (645g vs 1200g)
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose TYT TH-9800
- 4x more memory channels (800 vs 200)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Retevis RT95PICK
$125.99 on AmazonTYT TH-9800
$219.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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