Yaesu FT3DR vs Yaesu VX-7R - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu FT3DR 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 FT3DRYaesu VX-7R
Image
Radio NameYaesu FT3DRYaesu VX-7R
Bands2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 1.25m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3/42.2/3.1
Digital ModeC4FM-
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.2 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2200 mAh1500 mAh
Tested mAh2190 mAh mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant275 mm295 mm
Width67 mm65 mm
Thickness w/clip46 mm43 mm
Weight300 g285 g
Color ScreenYesNo
GPSYesNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$300$200
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceAC
Rating OverallAB
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.

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.