HamGeek APX-8000 vs Yaesu VX-5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between HamGeek APX-8000 and Yaesu VX-5? 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.

FeatureHamGeek APX-8000Yaesu VX-5
Image
Radio NameHamGeek APX-8000Yaesu VX-5
Bands2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.6/1.82.3/2
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh8800 mAh1800 mAh
Tested mAh2760 mAh mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant350 mm265 mm
Width75 mm61 mm
Thickness w/clip65 mm38 mm
Weight390 g250 g
Color ScreenYesNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingYesNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$130$125
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoNo
Rating by PriceDC
Rating OverallCC
Conclusions

This is truly a unique radio and is actually pretty fun to use. I wish the performance lived up to the ascetics and added perks like the second screen, better speaker, better microphone, dual PTT, etc. I also wish it was programmable with CHIRP, alas it is not.

So would I recommend it? That depends. If you are looking for something different that fits in your hand really well and has some really cool extra features, and of course can drop $130 on it, then yes. For most people who want a radio that works really well and won’t break the bank? No.

Remember for the same money you could get something like the Yaesu FT-65 which, while not as cool and flashy, is a far better radio that will last a lot longer.

So what do I think about the Yaesu VX-5? It is a fine radio but just too small for me. If you have smaller hands and excellent eyesight, you may like it. It absolutely is a good performer, has excellent wideband coverage, has features that cheap and midrange radios today would envy, and is built like a tank.