Yaesu FT-70DR vs Yaesu FT3DR - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-70DR 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.
| Feature | Yaesu FT-70DR | Yaesu FT3DR |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Yaesu FT-70DR | Yaesu FT3DR |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 3.9/1.2 | 3/4 |
| Digital Mode | - | C4FM |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.2 v |
| Rated mAh | 1800 mAh | 2200 mAh |
| Tested mAh | mAh | 2190 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | F-SMA | F-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 273 mm | 275 mm |
| Width | 68 mm | 67 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 47 mm | 46 mm |
| Weight | 283 g | 300 g |
| Color Screen | No | Yes |
| GPS | No | Yes |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | - |
| Price | $230 | $300 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | No |
| Value Score | B | A |
| Performance Score | B | A |
| Conclusions | I don’t personally like Yaesu’s Fusion that much, but that is a discussion for another time, the Yaesu FT-70DR is an excellent radio even if, like me, you do not tend to use Fusion. My only real complaint is the lack of a drop-in charger, and that does miff me. Of course, they added a really nice programming cable, so there is that. Overall, I would say, if you want a really nice radio with great attention to detail which works as good as it looks, pick up one of these and enjoy it! | 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. |