The Radtel RT-950: Your Next Ham Radio, Your Next Adventure
Are you a ham radio operator, prepper, or outdoor enthusiast searching for a versatile and powerful handheld radio? Look no further than the Radtel RT-950. This compact device packs an impressive array of features that go far beyond standard two-way communication.
Power and performance that travels with you! The RT-950 (amazon) is built for exceptional coverage and clarity. Its 10W output power (on VHF/UHF) ensures strong, stable communication, even in challenging environments. Unlike standard 5W radios, this extra power gives you the extended range needed for hiking, camping, and emergency situations. A USB-C port and included desktop charger offer flexible power options to keep you connected wherever you go.
A Swiss Army knife for your communications!
The Radtel RT-950’s (amazon) biggest selling point is its comprehensive feature set, combining the capabilities of several devices into one package:
Multi-band receive: Access a wide range of frequencies, including AM/FM, CB, SW, MW, and LW, expanding your communication and information-gathering abilities.
Built-in GPS/APRS: Share your real-time position with integrated GPS and Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS) functionality. This feature is a game-changer for coordinating with your team during outdoor activities or emergency deployments.
Wireless programming: Program and manage your radio settings directly from your smartphone via a Bluetooth app. The wireless frequency copy feature lets you quickly duplicate settings without a cable, making setup a breeze.
Integrated Spectrum Analyzer: Monitor frequency activity in real-time with the built-in spectrum analyzer. This powerful tool provides a visual representation of signals, helping you find clear channels and optimize your frequency usage.
NOAA Weather Alerts: Stay informed of severe weather with real-time NOAA weather channel reception. This is a critical safety feature for anyone spending time outdoors.
Full-color display: A vibrant, high-resolution screen provides excellent readability in any lighting condition.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
- The programming software, including the Bluetooth app, could be more intuitive and robust. Some users have noted limitations in bulk programming and file importing.
- The reception on certain bands, particularly MW and LW, may not be as sensitive as dedicated receivers, requiring a better antenna for optimal performance.
- Some reviewers have experienced issues with the programming cable fitting snugly, and some audio amplifier issues have been reported when using non-Radtel accessories.
- The screen may be dim in bright sunlight.
- Firmware issues, such as occasional APRS errors and radio noise, have been reported by some users, indicating that the device may still be in need of software refinement.
Is the Radtel RT-950 right for you?
For a budget-friendly, feature-packed ham radio, the Radtel RT-950 (amazon) offers a remarkable combination of power and functionality. It is an excellent choice for those who value versatility and want a single device to handle many tasks. However, if you require a flawless user interface or superior performance on less-common bands right out of the box, you may want to consider waiting for future firmware updates.
Overall, the Radtel RT-950 is a powerful tool for the price, and it’s a testament to the fact that you no longer need to break the bank for advanced features. Just be prepared for potential software quirks as the platform matures.
For its price and feature set, the Radtel RT-950 occupies a unique space, offering advanced functionality often reserved for much more expensive handheld radios. However, its “jack-of-all-trades” approach means it faces strong competition from specialized, mature alternatives.
The Radtel RT-950 Pro Features and Enhancements
The Radtel RT-950 Pro (amazon) is a significantly upgraded version of the standard RT-950, with the main differences centered on extended capabilities for transmission and reception. While both models share core functions like GPS, APRS, Bluetooth programming, and spectrum analysis, the Pro version adds support for transmitting on the 27 MHz Citizen’s Band (CB) frequency using FM modulation, a feature not available on the base RT-950. The Pro also introduces reception capabilities for Single Sideband (SSB), including both Upper Sideband (USB) and Lower Sideband (LSB), as well as Continuous Wave (CW or Morse code) signals, expanding its utility for a wider range of radio enthusiasts.
Beyond transmission and modulation, the Pro model also offers a more advanced and user-friendly interface. Its screen features a more dynamic signal strength meter (S-meter) and can display three Variable Frequency Oscillators (VFOs) simultaneously, providing more information at a glance. The RT-950 Pro also includes extra programmable function buttons for easier access to features, offering a more direct and customizable user experience compared to the standard model.
The hardware and firmware also differ between the two models, with the Pro version suggesting the use of a more advanced internal chip for handling the additional functionality. Firmware updates are also streamlined on the Pro model, which has a specific “upgrade mode” for easier software updates. While the radios are physically very similar, these internal and software-based enhancements distinguish the Pro as the more capable and feature-rich option for a slightly higher price.
The Rt-950 Compared To Other Brands:
Here is a comparison of the RT-950 against other popular handheld ham radios in its class, organized by category:
| Feature | Radtel RT-950 (amazon) | Quansheng UV-K5 (amazon) | Yaesu FT-65R (amazon) | Baofeng UV-5R (amazon) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Point | Mid-range for a “Chinesium” radio, around $80-$100. | Very inexpensive, often under $30. | High-end for a 5W analog radio, typically over $100. | Entry-level, widely available for $20-$30. |
| Power Output | 10W (VHF/UHF), giving it a range advantage over 5W models. | Typically 5W, but varies. | 5W, reliable and consistent. | Up to 8W on some models, though performance can vary. |
| Receive Bands | Extensive, including VHF/UHF, AM/FM broadcast, CB, SW, MW, and LW. The Pro version adds LSB/USB/CW receive. | Wide receive range, but inferior out-of-the-box performance compared to the RT-950. Custom firmware significantly expands its capabilities. | Limited to VHF/UHF and FM broadcast bands. | Limited to VHF/UHF and FM broadcast bands. |
| GPS/APRS | Built-in functionality for position sending and tracking. Users report the APRS feature is “half-baked” or buggy, though firmware may improve it. | Not included out of the box. Some custom firmware may add limited capability but requires an external GPS source. | No built-in GPS/APRS. | Not included. |
| Wireless Programming | Features Bluetooth connectivity for programming via a mobile app. | The base model requires a cable, but some modern variants and custom firmware may offer wireless programming options. | Requires a dedicated programming cable and software. | Requires a dedicated programming cable and software. |
| Band Scope | Has a built-in spectrum analyzer, a unique feature at this price point. | Not a built-in feature, though custom firmware may provide a limited version. | Not a standard feature on this class of Yaesu radios. | Not included. |
| Build Quality & Usability | Mixed reviews. Hardware is promising, but the firmware can be buggy and programming software is reportedly difficult to use. Some users report weak reception on HF bands with the stock antenna. | Basic and utilitarian. Known for its low cost and potential for enhanced features with community-developed custom firmware. | Robust, reliable, and durable, though some find it has limited features for the price. | The standard entry-level radio. Functional but less robust than higher-end models. |
| Best For… | The experimenter or tech-savvy hobbyist who wants a wide array of advanced features for a low price and is willing to deal with potential software issues. | The budget-conscious tinkerer who wants to explore advanced functionality by flashing custom firmware and is not afraid of DIY modifications. | Beginners or licensed operators who prioritize rock-solid reliability and good performance over a broad, but potentially buggy, feature set. | The absolute beginner getting started in the hobby on a minimal budget. |
Summary
The Radtel RT-950 (amazon) is a feature-rich, high-value handheld radio that brings advanced capabilities like GPS/APRS, a spectrum analyzer, and multi-band receive to the budget end of the market. However, this comes with the trade-off of less-polished software and some reported bugs.
In contrast, the Yaesu FT-65R (amazon) offers a superior, more reliable user experience but with a much narrower feature set and higher cost. Meanwhile, radios like the Quansheng UV-K5 (amazon) (with custom firmware) and the Baofeng UV-5R (amazon) compete on the low end of the market, catering to users who prioritize affordability and are comfortable with a more basic, but functional, experience.
Ham Radio Reviews and Events 