Yaesu FT-65R vs Yaesu VX-5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-65R 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-65RYaesu VX-5
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT-65RYaesu VX-5
Bands2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.1/3.52.3/2
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1950 mAh1800 mAh
Tested mAh1970 mAh mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant265 mm265 mm
Width62 mm61 mm
Thickness w/clip48 mm38 mm
Weight277 g250 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$130$125
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesNo
Value ScoreCC
Performance ScoreBC
Conclusions

The Yaesu FT-65R is kind of an odd bird, blending some of the inexpensive Chinese radios with the high-end of the Japanese radios. As hard as it is, the radio needs to be judged on its own. Sure, comparing the Yaesu FT-60R vs FT-65R shows that the 65R is far less of a radio, but it is far more of a radio than radios like the Baofengs. That really only matters when talking about where it fits in price-wise.

On its own, the Yaesu FT-65R is a good radio at its price point. If you want something a lot nicer than the cheap Chinese radios but really don’t want to spend over $150 on a handheld radio, and don’t need digital modes, this might be the perfect radio for you. On the other hand, for $50 more you could get the Yaesu FT-70DR or the FT-60R, both of which are superior radios in virtually every way, particularly in audio quality.

If you think this radio is interesting, you might also check out my Yaesu FT-65R vs FT-4XR article.

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.