Yaesu FT-70DR vs Yaesu VX-8G - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT-70DR and Yaesu VX-8G? 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-8G
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT-70DRYaesu VX-8G
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.9/1.23.7/2
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh1100 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant273 mm296 mm
Width68 mm67 mm
Thickness w/clip47 mm37 mm
Weight283 g294 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoYes
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$230$330
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!

You may be surprised at my scores for this radio, and believe me, when I bought the radio I really wanted to love it. But I just never did. It is just too difficult for an idiot like me to use (maybe even now, lol), the buttons are too small for my fat fingers, and the screen has too much on it at such as small font.

Don’t get me wrong, the Yaesu VX-8G is extremely capable and packs an enormous amount of capability into a really small package. If that is your thing, and you have small hands and excellent eye site, maybe this is the radio for you. For me, it is relegated to helping me test other radios.