Yaesu FT3DR vs Yaesu VX-8G - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Yaesu FT3DR 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.
| Feature | Yaesu FT3DR | Yaesu VX-8G |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Yaesu FT3DR | Yaesu VX-8G |
| Bands | 2m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 3/4 | 3.7/2 |
| Digital Mode | C4FM | - |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.2 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 2200 mAh | 1100 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 2190 mAh | mAh |
| Antenna Connector | F-SMA | F-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 275 mm | 296 mm |
| Width | 67 mm | 67 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 46 mm | 37 mm |
| Weight | 300 g | 294 g |
| Color Screen | Yes | No |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Price | $300 | $330 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | No | Yes |
| Rating by Price | A | C |
| Rating Overall | A | B |
| 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. | 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. |