Yaesu FT3DR vs Baofeng BF-T1 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT3DR and Baofeng BF-T1? 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 FT3DRBaofeng BF-T1
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT3DRBaofeng BF-T1
Bands2m, 70cm70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3/40/1
Digital ModeC4FM-
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.2 v3.7 v
Rated mAh2200 mAh1500 mAh
Tested mAh2190 mAh mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMA-
Height w/ant275 mm105 mm
Width67 mm56 mm
Thickness w/clip46 mm31 mm
Weight300 g102 g
Color ScreenYesNo
GPSYesNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book Link-LINK
Price$300$23
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceAC
Rating OverallAC
Conclusions

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.

The Baofeng BF-T1 is a nice pocket-sized radio which is perfectly usable for the amateur radio operator who wants something like a bubble-pack radio that can be programmed for ham frequencies. If this sounds like you, this might be the best walkie-talkie for you, much better than the non-programmable Motorola walkie-talkie amazon may carry.