RadioRanked verdict
Retevis
Retevis RA89
A solid, budget-friendly HT built for field reliability. Its IP68 rating and CHIRP compatibility make it a dependable choice for adverse conditions.
Decision helper
Is this radio right for you?
Yes, if you're…
- ✓New hobbyists needing a first HT
- ✓ARES/RACES field deployments
- ✓Backup radio for adverse weather
- ✓Operators on a strict budget
Skip it, if you're…
- ✕Advanced operators needing high power
- ✕Users requiring precise power specs
- ✕Operators needing premium build feel
Tradeoffs
The good and the bad
What we like
- IP68 waterproofing for harsh environments
- CHIRP compatibility simplifies programming
- 2500 mAh battery provides reliable runtime
- Intuitive menu system for beginners
- Solid build quality at low price
What we don't
- Transmit power specs are undisclosed
- Speaker output is reported as tinny
- Funky body design is polarizing
Proprietary RR score
How we scored it
Scores combine specs, Amazon buyer sentiment, and our testing framework. How we score →
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2500mAh
Battery
200
Channels
Extracted from the top buyer reviews we analysed
Themes from top buyer reviews
Durability and Reliability
Users praise its robust build and waterproof capability.
Programming Ease
CHIRP support and intuitive menus simplify setup.
Performance Range
Reported strong reception over long distances.
Audio Quality
Some users noted the speaker sound quality.
Overview
The Retevis RA89 is aimed squarely at newly licensed Technicians looking for a first HT that won't need babysitting on a rainy day. It fits the "field-ready backup radio" bracket better than it fits the "primary rig" role, and the price point reflects that honestly.
Where it earns its keep is in the practical trifecta of IP68 waterproofing, CHIRP compatibility, and a 2500mAh battery. IP68 means full submersion protection, not just splash resistance, which matters for ARES/RACES deployments in adverse conditions. CHIRP support sidesteps the notoriously fiddly manual programming experience common to budget HTs, and 200 memory channels is more than adequate for most regional repeater rosters.
Transmit power specs are not disclosed in verified form, which is a meaningful gap for anyone trying to evaluate link budgets or compare it against similarly priced competitors. At this price, the RA89 makes sense for a new ham who wants a waterproof, CHIRP-programmable starter radio and is not yet deep enough in the hobby to need more. Experienced operators looking for a reliable secondary HT should probably look a tier higher.
Specifications
| Price | $64.99 |
| Memory Channels | 200 |
| Battery | 2500 mAh |
| Display | LCD |
| IP Rating | IP68 |
| color | Black |
| unitCount | 1 |
| Color | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts (DC) |
| Tuner Type | dual band |
| Item Weight | 295 Grams |
| Model Number | RA89 |
| Audible Noise | 40 Decibels |
| Built-In Media | 1 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, User Manual |
| Frequency Range | 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz |
| Temperature Range | -10-55 Degrees Celsius |
| Waterproof Rating | IP68 |
| Compatible Devices | Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories |
| Additional Features | Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range |
| Battery Average Life | 75 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 |
| Connectivity Protocol | USB-C |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.69"D x 2.44"W x 4.96"H |
Key Features
- Dual-band VHF/UHF coverage; suitable for standard repeater and simplex operations
- IP68 rated; withstands full submersion, not just incidental rain or splash
- CHIRP-compatible; eliminates reliance on proprietary programming software
- 200 memory channels; sufficient for dense regional repeater banks
- 2500mAh Li-Ion battery included; 7.4V nominal operating voltage
- Three selectable TX power levels (high, medium, low); verified wattage figures not published
- Beginner-friendliness scores well; experienced operators may find feature depth limited
Recommended Antenna Upgrades
A better antenna is the cheapest way to extend your range. These fit the SMA-Female jack on the Retevis RA89.
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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...