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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Retevis RT95 vs Yaesu VX-6R

Our pick

Retevis RT95$139.99

The Retevis RT95 is the clear winner here. Despite incomplete specifications, it delivers significantly better overall value and functionality. The RT95 costs less than half the price of the VX-6R while scoring 15 points higher on our evaluation scale, indicating superior performance across multiple categories that matter to users.

The single most important differentiator is price-to-performance ratio. The RT95 at $126 offers substantially better value than the VX-6R at $330, particularly given the VX-6R's disappointing overall score of 38/100. Neither radio excels in advanced features like DMR, APRS, or GPS, so you're choosing between two relatively basic handhelds.

The RT95's CHIRP compatibility is another advantage worth noting, allowing users to easily program frequencies without manufacturer software. The VX-6R's legacy status and higher price point don't compensate for its lower evaluation score.

Buy the Retevis RT95 if you want solid performance without unnecessary expense or if you're building a radio collection on a budget. Buy the Yaesu VX-6R only if you have specific nostalgia or compatibility needs with existing equipment, as the cost premium isn't justified by performance metrics.

We recommend the RT95 for most users seeking a dependable handheld radio at a reasonable price.

Winner
Retevis RT95
Runner-up
Yaesu VX-6R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time amateur radio licensee

    Its high beginner score and lower cost make it an excellent entry point.

    Retevis RT95
  • Emergency communications and field use

    The VX-6R's durability and high TX power are ideal for critical field operations.

    VX-6R
  • Budget-conscious home base station setup

    The lower price point and CHIRP support offer great value for home experimentation.

    Retevis RT95
  • SOTA/POTA field activation operator

    Its robust build and analog focus are perfect for rugged outdoor deployments.

    VX-6R
  • Operator needing dual-band capability

    The RT95's design explicitly supports dual-band functionality, which is a key feature.

    Retevis RT95

Reasons to choose Retevis RT95

  • 57% cheaper ($139.99 vs $325.00)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 5x more memory channels (999 vs 200)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis RT95SpecYaesu VX-6R
$139.99
Price
$325.00
49
Overall Score
38
+28% for winner
TX Power (High)
5.00W
200
Memory Channels
999
5.0× difference
Battery
1400 mAh
TFT Color
Display
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
13.8 Volts
Voltage
3.7 Volts (DC)
Dual band
Tuner Type
UHF
645 Grams
Item Weight
0.08 Kilograms
RT95
Model Number
VX-6R
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
0.5-999 MHz
FA9129A-J9129A-C9058A
Mfr Part Number
VX-6R
Vehicle power supplies, microphones, external antennas, other two-way radios on the same frequency band
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
Dual Band, Dual Band Mobile Transceiver; Mobile Two Way Radio;Mobile Radio for RV Offroad 4x4, Emergency Alarm
Additional Features
Waterproof
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof
4.88"D x 6.42"W x 1.54"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Retevis RT95PICK

$139.99 on Amazon

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