Kenwood TH-D74A vs Alinco DJ-MD5 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Kenwood TH-D74A and Alinco DJ-MD5? 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.

FeatureKenwood TH-D74AAlinco DJ-MD5
Image
Radio NameKenwood TH-D74AAlinco DJ-MD5
Bands2m, 1.25m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.6/1.43.5/2.3
Digital ModeD-STARDMR
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh1700 mAh
Tested mAh1640 mAh1790 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant305 mm278 mm
Width59 mm59 mm
Thickness w/clip46 mm51 mm
Weight345 g266 g
Color ScreenYesYes
GPSYesYes
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINKLINK
Price$375$100
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoNo
Rating by PriceAA
Rating OverallAB
Conclusions

If you are looking for the ultimate in handheld amateur radio technology, then the Kenwood TH-D74A is probably what you want. No other handheld radio that I am aware of, for any amount of money, has the features, functionality, and quality of the Kenwood.

If you can find a Kenwood TH-D74A used, it will probably cost almost as much as a new one because no one wants to give them up, that should tell you something. I have had hundreds of handheld radios come through here, none hold a candle to this one. Mic drop.

If I could only own one dual-band DMR radio, this Alinco DJ-MD5 would be the one. The extra money you spend on this compared to other comparable radios is justified with a better screen, more channels, better audio all around, USB programming cable, and better programming software.