RadioRanked verdict
Retevis
Retevis HA1UV
The HA1UV offers excellent value and key features like IP67 and CHIRP support. It is a capable entry-level radio for budget-conscious operators.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New Technicians starting out
- ✓Budget-conscious local repeater work
- ✓Operators needing rugged outdoor use
- ✓Ham radio beginners getting started
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Advanced operators needing top sensitivity
- ✕Users requiring high-end performance
- ✕Operators needing advanced features
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- IP67 rating adds practical outdoor edge
- 2800mAh battery offers solid field time
- CHIRP compatibility simplifies programming
- Build quality feels rugged and durable
- Bright, clear display is a standout feature
What we don't
- Reported receiver sensitivity is lacking
- Scan rate may be slow for some users
- Dual standby feature is confusing
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
337g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Build Quality
Users praise the radio's rugged feel and solid construction.
Programming Experience
CHIRP and included cable simplify setup process.
Receiver Sensitivity
One user reported noticeably poor receiving sensitivity.
Display Clarity
The screen is noted for being bright and clear.
Overview
The HA1UV is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians and budget-conscious operators who need a reliable VHF/UHF handheld for local repeater work and outdoor use without committing serious money. It sits comfortably in the crowded entry-level dual-band space, but the IP67 rating gives it a practical edge over similarly priced competitors that offer only splash resistance or no rating at all.
The 2800mAh battery is a genuine highlight at this price point, offering extended field time without an immediate upgrade purchase. CHIRP compatibility is the other standout spec; it removes the friction of manual programming and puts this radio in reach of operators who want to get on air quickly without wrestling with a cluttered front-panel menu. The 256-channel memory is sufficient for most regional repeater networks. Feature depth beyond that is limited, and the missing TX power specifications are a legitimate concern for anyone evaluating output performance on paper.
At under $57 with a 2-year warranty and solid value scores, the HA1UV is a reasonable first radio or a low-stakes field spare. Operators looking for DMR, APRS, or verified wattage figures should look elsewhere.
Specifications
| Price | $55.99 |
| Memory Channels | 256 |
| Weight | 337g |
| Battery | 2800 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD |
| IP Rating | IP67 |
| FCC Authorization | No grant found |
| color | Black |
| unitCount | 1 |
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts (DC) |
| Tuner Type | U/V band |
| Model Number | HA1UV |
| Audible Noise | 40 Decibels |
| Built-In Media | 1 x 2800mAh lithium_ion battery, 1 x Belt clip & Hand strap, 1 x Data cable, 1 x HA1UV two way radio, 1 x Type-C charging cable & Charging base |
| Frequency Range | U/V band |
| Mfr Part Number | FA9244B-J9131P-C9034A |
| Temperature Range | -10-55 Degrees Celsius |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 |
| Compatible Devices | Repeater, Speaker, two way radio with the same frequency and the same CTCSS/DCS |
| Additional Features | Handheld Ham Radio with Cable;IP67 waterproof;NOAA Weather Receiver;Type-C Rechargeable;VFO |
| Battery Average Life | 20 Hours |
| Warranty Description | We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 2.36"D x 8.07"W x 10.03"H |
Key Features
- Dual-band VHF/UHF coverage; suitable for standard amateur repeater operation
- IP67 rated; survives submersion to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes
- CHIRP-compatible via latest firmware; supports one-click channel import and export
- Aviation band reception included (receive only; transmitting on aviation frequencies is prohibited)
- 2800mAh lithium-ion battery included; above average capacity for this price tier
- 256 memory channels; adequate for regional repeater and simplex programming
- TX power output unspecified by manufacturer; verify before purchasing if wattage matters to your use case
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Retevis HA1UV.
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What Customers Say
I got to say I really like this radio. To be a lower cost sub $100 radio it feels very rugged and capable. The user interface is not terrible by any means and easy to understand without a manual. I really enjoy that it comes with a programming cable so you can start plugging away on the computer ...
Really good AMATEUR dual band HT. I compared it to my Icom IC-T10 which is about 3.5 times the price, and is a similar radio (direct conversion, IP67, etc). The radio actually has a very tight front end and isn't overloaded, a sensitive receiver, a simple to use interface. The Icom has a tiny displa...
Update on day 2: Returning this radio. The RX sensitivity is lousy as mentioned by another reviewer. I have two other CCR's that are better on 2m by a noticeable amount. I was hoping this would be a good performer and along with it's robust build would be a keeper. But it seems not. I'm returning it...