Yaesu VX-5 vs Yaesu VX-7R - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Yaesu VX-5 and Yaesu VX-7R? 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 VX-7R
Image
Radio NameYaesu VX-5Yaesu VX-7R
Bands6m, 2m, 70cm6m, 2m, 1.25m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm2.3/22.2/3.1
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh1800 mAh1500 mAh
Antenna ConnectorF-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant265 mm295 mm
Width61 mm65 mm
Thickness w/clip38 mm43 mm
Weight250 g285 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Price$125$200
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceCC
Rating OverallCB
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.

Since these are no longer made, the question is would I recommend the Yaesu VX-7R used, and the answer is absolutely. The only real negatives to this radio are personal preferences and if you use it long enough, evidently some signal drift. You will be hard-pressed to find a radio of this quality with these features for the same amount of money.