QYT KT-8R vs Yaesu FT-65R - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between QYT KT-8R and Yaesu FT-65R? 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 | QYT KT-8R | Yaesu FT-65R |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | QYT KT-8R | Yaesu FT-65R |
| Bands | 2m, 1.25m, 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | 5.1/3 | 3.1/3.5 |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 7.4 v | 7.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 2000 mAh | 1950 mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1950 mAh | 1970 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 317 mm | 265 mm |
| Width | 62 mm | 62 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 46 mm | 48 mm |
| Weight | 243 g | 277 g |
| Color Screen | Yes | No |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | No |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | - | LINK |
| Price | $80 | $130 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | Yes | Yes |
| Value Score | C | C |
| Performance Score | C | B |
| Conclusions | Would I recommend the radio? Sure, if you wanted a pretty good radio on three bands you can transmit on, this one will fit the bill and not break the bank in the process. It has a lot to like and not a lot to dislike. It doesn’t have USB-C charging but does come with a drop-in charger which I prefer anyway. Furthermore, it’s a good value for the price. | The Yaesu FT-65R is kind of an odd bird, blending some of the inexpensive Chinese radios with the high-end of the Japanese radios. As hard as it is, the radio needs to be judged on its own. Sure, comparing the Yaesu FT-60R vs FT-65R shows that the 65R is far less of a radio, but it is far more of a radio than radios like the Baofengs. That really only matters when talking about where it fits in price-wise. On its own, the Yaesu FT-65R is a good radio at its price point. If you want something a lot nicer than the cheap Chinese radios but really don’t want to spend over $150 on a handheld radio, and don’t need digital modes, this might be the perfect radio for you. On the other hand, for $50 more you could get the Yaesu FT-70DR or the FT-60R, both of which are superior radios in virtually every way, particularly in audio quality. If you think this radio is interesting, you might also check out my Yaesu FT-65R vs FT-4XR article. |