Radtel
Radtel RT-470X
65Good
A sub-$30 VHF/UHF handheld that earns its keep at the entry level, where value matters more than feature depth.
Value
95
Features
18
Beginner
88
Portability
58
VHFUHFCHIRP
2800mAh
Battery
256
Channels
★★★★☆4.2(254 reviews)
5 star
62%
4 star
15%
3 star
10%
2 star
4%
1 star
9%
Overview
The Radtel RT-470X is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians and casual local operators who want a functional dual-band handheld without committing serious money to the hobby. It sits comfortably alongside other budget Chinese handhelds but earns its place through sheer value-per-dollar rather than any standout specification.
CHIRP compatibility is the most practically useful feature here, letting you skip the often-frustrating front-panel programming entirely. The 2800mAh battery is a genuine positive at this price point, offering reasonable runtime for everyday simplex and repeater use. The 256-channel memory is more than sufficient for most regional frequency plans, and the 1.77-inch LCD is readable in direct sunlight without squinting.
At this price, the RT-470X scores exceptionally well on value and is genuinely beginner-friendly, but experienced operators will notice the feature set is thin. It carries no water resistance rating, so keep it out of the rain. If you need a grab-and-go spare, a loaner for a new ham, or a first radio on a tight budget, this delivers. If you operate in demanding environments or want digital modes, look elsewhere.
Specifications
| Price | $29.99 |
| Memory Channels | 256 |
| Battery | 2800 mAh |
| Display | 1.77in TFT Color |
| Color | Standard |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts |
| Frequency Range | 144-148/420-450Mhz |
| Special Feature | Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency |
| Product Dimensions | 1.57"D x 2.28"W x 4.6"H |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| UPC | 715748983927 |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Tuner Type | FM/AM |
| Item Weight | 448 Grams |
| Model Number | RT-470X |
| Built-In Media | 1x Radtel RT-470X Ham Radio,1x 2800mAh Type-C Battery, 1x 7.87-inch Dual Band 145/435 Antenna, 1x 39-inch USB-C Charger Cable, 1x Belt Clip with Metal Piece, 1x English User Manual,1x AC Power Adapter with USB Port (FCC ID: 2AZSA-RT470X) |
| Mfr Part Number | RT-470X |
| Waterproof Rating | IP54 |
| Compatible Devices | K-connector |
| Additional Features | Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency |
| Battery Average Life | 8 Hours |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year Warranty |
| Connectivity Protocol | K-connector |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.57"D x 2.28"W x 4.6"H |
Key Features
- Dual-band TX/RX on 144-148 MHz and 420-450 MHz ham allocations
- CHIRP-compatible for straightforward computer-based channel programming
- 256 memory channels, adequate for most regional repeater and simplex plans
- 2800mAh Li-Ion battery included; 7.4V nominal operating voltage
- 1.77-inch color LCD with claimed sunlight readability
- Eight receiving bands including FM broadcast and AM coverage
- Not water resistant; unsuitable for use in rain or high-humidity field conditions
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What Customers Say
★★★★★Good versitile handheld radio with FM, airband, tribander tx.
really like this handheld radio, it can receive 5 bands, easy to read display, sounds great. great value for the money. and usb-c charging is the best. I paired mine with a nagoya NA-320A antenna and seems to work great. Nice bright green/red led for tx/rx. flashlight, weather, Airband rx, fm radio....
Theodore J. Peterson·May 15, 2024·Verified Purchase
★★★★★Great radio for listening to aircraft band.
This is a great little radio for the price. I can't speak for other bands, but it receives well on Aircraft, WX, and FM broadcast. The sound quality is good, and the battery charges quickly and holds its charge a long time.
Simone J. Werkmeister·Apr 28, 2025·Verified Purchase
★★★★☆I did not need another radio but I bought this one anyway
I'm really liking this radio. USB-C charging, finally. I have connected it to my base station VHF/UHF antenna and checked into the local repeater net no prob. The next night I checked in standing in my front yard with the little antenna it came with. I'm sticking with the stock antenna for now (and ...
John·May 4, 2024·Verified Purchase