Choosing among ham radio transceivers comes down to a real format and capability split: do you want a handheld VHF/UHF radio, a set explicitly spanning HF through UHF, or a new-in-box unit identified by AM/FM modes? The four radios below also vary by used versus new condition and by included accessories such as a charging dock, mic, or DC cable. Start with the use case, then use the price spread to decide how much scope you need.
Quick take
- Handheld VHF/UHF use: The Yaesu FT5DR Handheld HT Transceiver VHF/UHF is the direct match, with dual-band operation and a 5W output.
- HF, VHF, and UHF all-mode use: The FT-897D names that combination directly and also specifies 100W.
- New-in-box purchase: The Black Yaesu VX 7R Radio Transceiver is described as new with original contents and lists AM/FM modes.
- HF with named accessories: The Yaesu FT-890 includes a mic and DC cable in its title and is described as tested working.
Listed price comparison
The listed range is $320.00 to $738.20, an absolute spread of $418.20. The price bars show the relative position of each radio within this group.
| Radio | Listed price | Price bar |
|---|---|---|
| Yaesu FT5DR Handheld HT Transceiver VHF/UHF | $320.00 | |
| FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Ham Radio Transceiver Amateur Radio 100W | $738.20 | |
| Black Yaesu VX 7R Radio Transceiver Brand New In Box All Original | $450.00 | |
| Yaesu FT-890 HF Amateur Ham Radio Transceiver w Mic DC Cable Tested Working | $450.00 |
Decision matrix
Use the part of your radio brief that cannot be compromised:
- Format first: The FT5DR is the only title that explicitly identifies a handheld HT and VHF/UHF operation.
- Band and mode span first: The FT-897D title combines HF, VHF, UHF, and all-mode operation, while its attributes specify HF from 160m-10m plus 6m, 2m, and 70cm.
- Condition first: The VX 7R is marked new, and its description includes the original box contents, battery, and radio.
- Named accessories first: The FT-890 title calls out a mic and DC cable alongside HF operation and tested working status.
Yaesu FT5DR Handheld HT Transceiver VHF/UHF
The FT5DR is the direct fit for a shopper who wants the handheld format named in its title and dual-band VHF/UHF coverage. Its description adds 144/430MHz operation, 5W output, an LCD screen, 79 channels, and a charging dock, clip-on holster, stock antenna, and short antenna. That package supports a clear portable-use brief without assuming a mounting method. The limitation is condition: it is used, and its $320 price is the lowest in the group. Choose it when handheld VHF/UHF use and the named accessories matter; a used unit is not the fit for a new-condition priority.
FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Ham Radio Transceiver Amateur Radio 100W
The FT-897D fits a shopper seeking one radio with HF, VHF, and UHF all-mode operation. Its title identifies 100W, while its attributes specify HF from 160m-10m plus 6m, 2m, and 70cm. The description says it was tested and confirmed working. Its concrete limitation is condition: it is used, with scratches and signs of use described, and it carries no manufacturer warranty. At $738.20, it is $418.20 above the FT5DR. Select it when the HF, VHF, and UHF all-mode brief is the priority and the used condition is acceptable.
Black Yaesu VX 7R Radio Transceiver Brand New In Box All Original
The VX 7R stands apart on condition and packaging: its title says Brand New In Box All Original, and the description says the box contains the original contents, battery, and radio. AM and FM are the supported modes named in its attributes, giving it a clear mode-based reason to consider. The constraint is that its supported-mode detail names AM and FM, while HF is named for the FT-897D and FT-890 and VHF/UHF for the FT5DR and FT-897D. At $450, it is $130 above the FT5DR. It suits a new-in-box or collector-oriented purchase where AM/FM is sufficient.
Yaesu FT-890 HF Amateur Ham Radio Transceiver w Mic DC Cable Tested Working
The FT-890 fits a shopper whose shortlist starts with HF and wants named accessories: its title calls out a mic and DC cable and says Tested Working. The description also says the radio works and was tested, while the attributes identify the model as FT-890. Its limitation is condition: it is used, so it does not match the new condition stated for the VX 7R. The listed price is $450, equal to the VX 7R and $130 above the FT5DR. Choose it for the HF wording and named accessories; it is less suitable when a handheld is the main requirement.
Final recommendation by use case
- For a VHF/UHF handheld: Choose the FT5DR because its title explicitly names the handheld HT format, and its dual-band attribute supports that brief.
- For HF, VHF, and UHF all-mode operation: Choose the FT-897D because those bands and all-mode operation appear together in its title, with 100W also specified.
- For a new-in-box or collector-oriented purchase: Choose the VX 7R because its title and description emphasize new condition and original contents.
- For HF with a mic and DC cable: Choose the FT-890 because those accessories and tested working status are named directly alongside HF operation.
