Yaesu FT-270R vs Yaesu FT-4XR - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-270R and Yaesu FT-4XR? 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.

FeatureYaesu FT-270RYaesu FT-4XR
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT-270RYaesu FT-4XR
Bands2m2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm4.5/03.1/3
Battery TypeNiMHLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.2 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1400 mAh1750 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant263 mm250 mm
Width67 mm62 mm
Thickness w/clip47 mm48 mm
Weight413 g249 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book Link-LINK
Price$140$100
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Rating by PriceAC
Rating OverallAB
Conclusions

My Yaesu FT-270R is the radio that goes in my backpack when I head down a trail, it is the radio that goes in my car when I decide to take the roads less traveled, and it is the radio that is on my side in the pouring down rain when weather spotting.

Does it have the features of most of my other radios? No. Can it do digital modes? No. Does it have a built-in flashlight? No. But it will take a twenty-foot tumble down a rock face into the river and keep right on putting out an excellent signal when I need it to. That is why I love my Yaesu FT-270R.

The Yaesu FT-4XR is a nice basic radio. If you are looking for a well-built and solid analog radio with no real frills, then this might be a perfect radio for you. While my review might not really sound like it, I like this little radio. It feels so much more solid in my hand and is much slicker to use than my Baofengs.

In the end, will the Yaesu FT-4XR actually do more than a Baofeng UV-5R? Other than probably last longer and provide better reception, not really. Think of this radio as a stripped-down Cadillac, where the Baofeng is a well-equipped Kia. The Cadillac is a lot nicer to tootle around in, and has a lot higher build quality, but it doesn’t really do anything the Kia won’t. It is just a matter of if you are willing to pay for something nicer or not.