RadioRanked verdict
Radtel
Radtel RT-860
The RT-860 offers substantial functionality and memory capacity for the price point. It is a capable, budget-friendly option for basic local and regional operations.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓Budget-conscious new technicians
- ✓Local repeater and simplex operations
- ✓Operators needing high channel memory
- ✓Basic field scanning and communication
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕DMR or digital protocol users
- ✕Operators needing wideband receive
- ✕Advanced HF/SWL specialists
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- 1024-channel memory capacity
- Durable metal construction for field use
- Good battery life reported by users
- Program buttons with custom functions
What we don't
- Limited to FM analog only
- Requires external antennas for SWL
- Programming and manual documentation lacking
- No IP rating or water resistance
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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2000mAh
Battery
1024
Channels
255g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Build quality
Users noted the robust metal construction and belt clip.
Programming complexity
Setup and operation require detailed external resources.
Antenna requirements
External antennas are necessary for optimal SWL performance.
Functionality vs cost
Provides many features relative to its low price.
Overview
The Radtel RT-860 is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians and budget-conscious operators who need a capable FM voice handheld without committing serious money. If your use case is local repeaters, simplex contacts, and basic scanning, this radio covers the ground without demanding much from your wallet.
The standout practical feature here is the 1024-channel memory, which gives you room to load full repeater directories for travel or regional nets without constant reprogramming. The metal construction adds genuine durability for field use, even if there is no stated IP rating and the radio is not water resistant, so keep it out of the rain. On features, this radio scores toward the low end of the scale, offering FM analog only with no DMR, no APRS, and no wideband receive to speak of.
At under $40, the RT-860 scores exceptionally well on value relative to its class. It is a sensible first radio or a low-stakes backup unit. Operators looking for digital modes, weather resistance, or any serious technical depth should look elsewhere.
Specifications
| Price | $39.00 |
| Memory Channels | 1024 |
| Weight | 255g |
| Battery | 2000 mAh |
| FCC Authorization | No grant found |
| color | With SW/MW Antennas |
| unitCount | 1 |
| Color | With SW/MW Antennas |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception, |
| Model Number | RT-860 |
| Built-In Media | 1x RT-860 Main unit, 1x 2000mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1X Desktop charger, 1x lanyard, 1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port，1x English User Manual |
| Frequency Range | 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz |
| Mfr Part Number | RT-860 |
| Compatible Devices | External antennas (50 ohm) |
| Additional Features | 1024 Channels,Type-C and Desktop Charger, AM USB LSB CW CB LW MW SW SSB Reception |
| Warranty Description | 1 Year |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.18"D x 2.36"W x 4.72"H |
Key Features
- VHF/UHF FM analog only; no DMR, D-STAR, or digital voice modes
- 1024 memory channels; accommodates full regional repeater directories
- Metal housing with dust and crush resistance; not water resistant
- 7.4V lithium-ion battery pack; single cell configuration
- Slim, ergonomic form factor suited for extended carry
- CHIRP compatibility not confirmed; verify before purchase if software programming is a priority
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Radtel RT-860.
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What Customers Say
What a Great Radio but hard to program manually. In any case I use the passive loop antenna outside my apt overhang balcony. AM/SSB comes in good and SW comes in good. Have not tested all VHF/UHF or aero bands yet. HF comes in reasonably well with SW loop antenna that is included with radio. The AM ...
I’ve gotten reports of good clear transmit audio. Reception seems good on all bands. The loop antennas really help and are good to have around for other receivers too. Measured antenna SWR for 2m and 70cm bands was usually less than 2:1, better in 2m.
Nice economical dual band radio with fair HF reception. Slim and compact radio though not as svelte as my Yaesu VX6 but the battery life is much better than the Yaesu. The display may be hard to read for some as the text seems smaller than most of the radios I own. It has a robust belt clip. The bat...