TYT MD-380 vs Yaesu VX-8G - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between TYT MD-380 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.

FeatureTYT MD-380Yaesu VX-8G
Image
Radio NameTYT MD-380Yaesu VX-8G
Bands70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm0/1.93.7/2
Digital ModeDMR-
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2000 mAh1100 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant207 mm296 mm
Width61 mm67 mm
Thickness w/clip53 mm37 mm
Weight289 g294 g
Color ScreenYesNo
GPSNoYes
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINK-
Price$100$330
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceCC
Rating OverallCB
Conclusions

If you are looking for a nice little radio that you are going to use primarily for DMR that won’t break the bank, the TYT MD-380 might just be your perfect little handheld. You could also go with the TYT MD-UV380 dual-band version if having 2m and 70cm bands appeals to you.

You might could find a TYT MD-380 used from someone who was upgrading to a dual-band radio, in which case you could get a real deal on a great little radio.

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.