RadioRanked verdict
Retevis
Retevis RA79
This is a highly capable, budget-friendly HT for new hams. CHIRP compatibility and multi-band receive make it a solid starting point.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New amateur radio operators
- ✓Cost-conscious hams exploring bands
- ✓Portable field use and general communication
- ✓Operators needing multi-band receive
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Experienced digital radio enthusiasts
- ✕Operators needing high TX power output
- ✕Advanced mission-critical communications
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- CHIRP-compatible for easy setup
- Multi-band receive capability (VHF, UHF, NOAA)
- Solid build quality for the price
- Intuitive menu system for beginners
- Good reception and clear audio output
What we don't
- Modest 1400 mAh battery capacity
- TX power figures are unlisted
- Feature depth is somewhat limited
- High-pitched speaker output noted
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
Ready to buy?
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1400mAh
Battery
200
Channels
225g
Weight
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Value and Accessibility
Operators praise its solid performance relative to its low cost.
Programming Ease
CHIRP support and intuitive menus simplify setup.
Audio Output Quality
Users report clear, crisp, and strong reception.
Physical Design
Some users find the body design unusual or 'funky'.
Overview
The Retevis RA79 is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians and cost-conscious hams who want multiband receive capability without committing serious money. It covers VHF, UHF, and 1.25m transmit, plus aviation AM and NOAA weather receive, which is a genuinely useful combination for someone still exploring what amateur radio can do.
CHIRP compatibility is the most practically important spec here. It means you can program 200 memory channels from a computer without wrestling with the radio's keypad, which matters a lot for a beginner. The 1400mAh battery is modest, and TX power figures are not published by Retevis, so range expectations should stay realistic. The radio scores exceptionally well on value for money and beginner accessibility, but feature depth is thin, and there is no water resistance rating to speak of.
At $29.99, the RA79 is a reasonable first handheld or a cheap loaner to hand a new ham at a club night. If you need DMR, APRS, or any weatherproofing, look elsewhere. For budget-conscious entry-level use, it delivers what it promises.
Specifications
| Price | $29.99 |
| Memory Channels | 200 |
| Weight | 225g |
| Battery | 1400 mAh |
| FCC Authorization | No grant found |
| color | Black |
| unitCount | 1 |
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts (DC) |
| Tuner Type | [POSSIBLY] Digital |
| Model Number | RA79 |
| Audible Noise | 35 Decibels |
| Built-In Media | 1 x USB Desktop Charger, 1x RA79 Radio Body & Antenna, Battery, Belt Clip, User Manual |
| Frequency Range | Dual Band |
| Compatible Devices | [Wide range of CHIRP-compatible devices] |
| Additional Features | Emergency Alarm, Frequency copy, Lightweight, Long Range, Weather Alert |
| Battery Average Life | 10 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 |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.48"D x 2.36"W x 4.53"H |
Key Features
- Triband TX on VHF (2m), UHF (70cm), and 1.25m (220 MHz)
- Receives aviation AM band and NOAA weather channels in addition to ham bands
- CHIRP-compatible; 200 memory channels programmable via computer
- Large display with dedicated A/B band switching keys for straightforward dual-watch operation
- 7.4V Li-Ion battery (1400mAh included); adequate for casual portable use
- TX power output not published by manufacturer; real-world range should be treated as unknown
- Not water resistant; avoid field use in rain or high-humidity environments
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Retevis RA79.
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What Customers Say
The Retevis RA79 is an excellent entry-level ham radio that delivers solid performance at a great price point. As an upgrade to the popular UV-5R, it offers noticeable improvements while remaining beginner-friendly.The radio is surprisingly easy to program and use right out of the box. The menu syst...
I already have four Yaesu handhelds, several other Beofeng radios, so I'm well aware of how to program these radios and also know how similar they all are, so when one stands out its worth mentioning and to me this one is worth a positive review. First, I like the large volume knob that is well-mar...
It is essentially the "original" Quansheng UV-K5 sold with a Retevis sticker on it. The main difference from the cheap Baofeng radio is that this one now uses a much improved Beken BK4819 chip, which affords much more functionality, such as a wider frequency receive range, as well as better sensitiv...