Arcshell AR-6 vs Explorer QRZ-1 - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Arcshell AR-6 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 | Arcshell AR-6 | Explorer QRZ-1 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Arcshell AR-6 | Explorer QRZ-1 |
| Bands | 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 0/1 | 3.9/5 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 3.7 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 1500 mAh | 1400 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 690 mAh | 1070 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | F-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 240 mm | 246 mm |
| Width | 57 mm | 59 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 28 mm | 47 mm |
| Weight | 164 g | 232 g |
| Color Screen | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | - |
| Price | $26 | $34 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Rating by Price | C | F |
| Rating Overall | D | C |
| Conclusions | The Arcshell AR-6 is an effective little radio which works exceptionally well for what it costs. When I need an easy, fast, and disposable radio, this is what I reach for. It is hard to go wrong with this radio, grab one, turn to a specific channel, start talking. If you lose it or drop it into a lake, who cares? | 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. |