RadioRanked verdict
Radtel
Radtel RT-470X
The RT-470X offers extensive functionality and features for its low price point. It is a highly capable, budget-friendly option for general local operations.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New Technicians starting out
- ✓Casual local simplex operations
- ✓Operators needing multi-band receiver
- ✓Budget-conscious radio hobbyists
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Serious contest field operators
- ✕High-power commercial users
- ✕Operators needing top fidelity
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- CHIRP compatibility simplifies setup
- 2800mAh battery provides good runtime
- 256 channels for regional plans
- USB-C charging is a major convenience
- Multiple bands and receiver modes
What we don't
- Screen scratching is a concern
- Reported poor 800MHz reception
- Manual programming required sometimes
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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2800mAh
Battery
256
Channels
267g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Value and Features
Users praise the radio's extensive features for the low cost.
Programming Ease
CHIRP compatibility simplifies initial setup process.
Reception Quality
Some users reported poor reception on specific bands.
Power and Charging
The battery life and USB-C charging are highly praised.
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 | $32.99 |
| Memory Channels | 256 |
| Weight | 267g |
| Battery | 2800 mAh |
| Display | 1.77in TFT Color |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| FCC Authorization | No grant found |
| color | Standard |
| unitCount | 1 |
| UPC | 715748983927 |
| Color | Standard |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Tuner Type | FM/AM |
| 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) |
| Frequency Range | 144-148/420-450Mhz |
| 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 |
| 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
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Radtel RT-470X.
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What Customers Say
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 ra...
I wanted an inexpensive radio to carry with me that would cover 2m Ham, air band, trains, local 911 frequency and Weather, an for an amazingly low price this does it all well!!! Bought 2. Very good reception, good sound and loudness, long lasting battery, universal "C" charge connector, included wal...
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 (...