Abbree AR-518 vs Explorer QRZ-1 - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Abbree AR-518 and Explorer QRZ-1? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.
| Feature | Abbree AR-518 | Explorer QRZ-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Abbree AR-518 | Explorer QRZ-1 |
| Bands | 2m, 1.25m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 3.4/2.5 | 3.9/5 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 8800 mAh | 1400 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 970 mAh | 1070 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | F-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 309 mm | 246 mm |
| Width | 59 mm | 59 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 46 mm | 47 mm |
| Weight | 209 g | 232 g |
| Color Screen | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Price | $53 | $34 |
| Purchase Link | - | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Rating by Price | F | F |
| Rating Overall | F | C |
| Conclusions | Would I recommend the Abbree AR-512? ROFLMAO! I can think of no situation where I would suggest doing anything with this radio except throwing it away, or perhaps setting it on fire to see what happens. Stay away. | There is absolutely nothing wrong with the Explorer QRZ-1, it is a solid radio at its price point. I am still not sure what its purpose in life is, seeing as how the TYT is the same radio and usually cheaper. At least it isn’t trying to rip you off, like the MyEmergencyRadio.com radio is. Although I don’t see any new ones available for sale, if I ran across a used one for a reasonable amount and needed an inexpensive starter radio, this would make a fine choice. My purchase link in this review sends you to the new and still manufactured TYT TH-UV88 instead of the discontinued, more expensive QRZ-1. |