Yaesu VX-5 vs Yaesu FT-4XR - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu VX-5 and Yaesu FT-4XR? 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-4XR
Image
Radio NameYaesu VX-5Yaesu FT-4XR
Bands6m, 2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm2.3/23.1/3
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh1750 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant265 mm250 mm
Width61 mm62 mm
Thickness w/clip38 mm48 mm
Weight250 g249 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book Link-LINK
Price$125$100
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Value ScoreCC
Performance ScoreCB
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.

The Yaesu FT-4XR is a nice basic radio. If you are looking for a well-built and solid analog radio with no real frills, then this might be a perfect radio for you. While my review might not really sound like it, I like this little radio. It feels so much more solid in my hand and is much slicker to use than my Baofengs.

In the end, will the Yaesu FT-4XR actually do more than a Baofeng UV-5R? Other than probably last longer and provide better reception, not really. Think of this radio as a stripped-down Cadillac, where the Baofeng is a well-equipped Kia. The Cadillac is a lot nicer to tootle around in, and has a lot higher build quality, but it doesn’t really do anything the Kia won’t. It is just a matter of if you are willing to pay for something nicer or not.