Yaesu FT-60R vs Yaesu VX-5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-60R 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.

FeatureYaesu FT-60RYaesu VX-5
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT-60RYaesu VX-5
Bands2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm2.5/1.12.3/2
Battery TypeNiMHLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.2 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1400 mAh1800 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant286 mm265 mm
Width62 mm61 mm
Thickness w/clip49 mm38 mm
Weight368 g250 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$205$125
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesNo
Rating by PriceAC
Rating OverallBC
Conclusions

Without a doubt, the Yaesu FT-60R is one of the best built, best performing, most fun to use radios ever made. Unless you need a handheld radio with a digital mode, there is no better choice than this radio. Yes, it is expensive compared to pretty much everything out there, but once you have used one, that won’t matter anymore.

I really enjoy using my Zastone m7 as a dual-band analog radio, but there is no doubt that other than the screen and menu system on the Zastone, this Yaesu FT-60R outperforms the Zastone in every possible way. If you can afford a $200 dual-band analog radio, then you will love this one. The only people who don’t like the Yaesu FT-60R are the people who dropped one on their foot.

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.