Yaesu FT-70DR vs Yaesu VX-5 - Which One is Better in 2026?
Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-70DR 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.
| Feature | Yaesu FT-70DR | Yaesu VX-5 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Yaesu FT-70DR | Yaesu VX-5 |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 6m, 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 3.9/1.2 | 2.3/2 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 1800 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | F-SMA | F-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 273 mm | 265 mm |
| Width | 68 mm | 61 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 47 mm | 38 mm |
| Weight | 283 g | 250 g |
| Color Screen | No | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | - |
| Price | $230 | $125 |
| Rating by Price | B of 5 | C of 5 |
| Rating Overall | B of 5 | C of 5 |
| EMPTY | Yes | No |
| 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 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. |