Yaesu FT-70DR vs Yaesu VX-7R - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-70DR and Yaesu VX-7R? 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-70DRYaesu VX-7R
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT-70DRYaesu VX-7R
Bands2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 1.25m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.9/1.22.2/3.1
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh1500 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant273 mm295 mm
Width68 mm65 mm
Thickness w/clip47 mm43 mm
Weight283 g285 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$230$200
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramYesYes
Rating by PriceBC
Rating OverallBB
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!

Since these are no longer made, the question is would I recommend the Yaesu VX-7R used, and the answer is absolutely. The only real negatives to this radio are personal preferences and if you use it long enough, evidently some signal drift. You will be hard-pressed to find a radio of this quality with these features for the same amount of money.