Yaesu VX-5 vs Yaesu FT-270R - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu VX-5 and Yaesu FT-270R? 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 VX-5Yaesu FT-270R
Image
Radio NameYaesu VX-5Yaesu FT-270R
Bands6m, 2m, 70cm2m
Max Power 2m/70cm2.3/24.5/0
Battery TypeLi-IonNiMH
Battery Volts7.4 v7.2 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh1400 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant265 mm263 mm
Width61 mm67 mm
Thickness w/clip38 mm47 mm
Weight250 g413 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$125$140
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceCA
Rating OverallCA
Conclusions

So what do I think about the Yaesu VX-5? It is a fine radio but just too small for me. If you have smaller hands and excellent eyesight, you may like it. It absolutely is a good performer, has excellent wideband coverage, has features that cheap and midrange radios today would envy, and is built like a tank.

My Yaesu FT-270R is the radio that goes in my backpack when I head down a trail, it is the radio that goes in my car when I decide to take the roads less traveled, and it is the radio that is on my side in the pouring down rain when weather spotting.

Does it have the features of most of my other radios? No. Can it do digital modes? No. Does it have a built-in flashlight? No. But it will take a twenty-foot tumble down a rock face into the river and keep right on putting out an excellent signal when I need it to. That is why I love my Yaesu FT-270R.