Yaesu FT-270R vs Yaesu FT3DR - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-270R and Yaesu FT3DR? 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 FT3DR
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT-270RYaesu FT3DR
Bands2m2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm4.5/03/4
Digital Mode-C4FM
Battery TypeNiMHLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.2 v7.2 v
Rated mAh1400 mAh2200 mAh
Tested mAh mAh2190 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant263 mm275 mm
Width67 mm67 mm
Thickness w/clip47 mm46 mm
Weight413 g300 g
Color ScreenNoYes
GPSNoYes
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$140$300
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesNo
Rating by PriceAA
Rating OverallAA
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.

So would I recommend the Yaesu FT3DR? Absolutely! I would, however, highly recommend that if you have large hands and really want to use the touchscreen that you play with one before making a final decision. It is a fantastic radio in every respect and will do pretty much anything you can think of a handheld radio can do.

Would I recommend it over the FT5DR? That too depends on what you need. The FT5DR has a nicer screen, louder audio, a USB-C port for both charging and data, IPX7 waterproofing, and is supposedly more ergonomic. To my knowledge, it doesn’t do anything the FT3DR can’t. Is that worth the currently $200-$250 more? Not to me, but maybe to you.