Choosing among ham radio transceivers means deciding whether you need a broad operating brief or a focused handheld format. One radio is identified for HF, VHF, and UHF use with all-mode operation, while the other is centered on portable 440MHz FM communication. The useful payoff is straightforward: match the radio to the role you actually plan to use, rather than paying for scope you do not need.
Quick verdict
The FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Ham Radio Transceiver Amateur Radio 100W is the clearer fit for a shopper who wants wider coverage and all-mode operation, accepting a used unit. The Kenwood TH-46AT 440MHz FM Mono Band Handheld Ham Radio Transceiver w/ Box is the clearer fit for someone seeking a focused handheld radio at a much lower listed price. This is a scope-versus-focus decision, not a small difference between similar formats.
Listed-price comparison
| Product | Listed price |
|---|---|
| FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Ham Radio Transceiver | USD 738.20 |
| Kenwood TH-46AT 440MHz FM Mono Band Handheld Transceiver | USD 150.00 |
Where each wins
FT-897D: It has the stronger case when the 100W designation is part of the requirement. Its stated frequency coverage includes HF (160m-10m), 6m, 2m, and 70cm, creating a clearly multi-band direction. The listed price is USD 588.20 above the Kenwood's, so that broader brief comes with a concrete price gap.
Kenwood TH-46AT: It wins when the desired brief is a portable handheld around 440MHz FM. The title's w/ Box wording is also relevant to someone who wants that package presentation. At USD 150.00, it is the lower-priced side of this comparison.
FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Ham Radio Transceiver
The FT-897D makes sense for an operator who wants one radio covering the listed HF, 6m, 2m, and 70cm ranges. Its title also identifies HF/VHF/UHF all-mode operation, so the reason to choose it is the breadth of the stated operating brief rather than a single-band handheld format. The limitation is its condition: it is listed as used, with scratches and signs of use. It is also identified as black and 8.6 lb. Those details matter if a pre-owned finish or that listed weight does not fit your plans. Choose the FT-897D for the multi-band, all-mode role; do not choose it merely because the title includes a 100W figure unless that figure belongs in your requirements.
Kenwood TH-46AT 440MHz FM Handheld Transceiver
The Kenwood TH-46AT is the focused choice for someone who specifically wants a portable handheld centered on 440MHz FM. Its description calls the design compact and convenient for short-range communication, making the handheld format the concrete reason to choose it. The trade-off is the mono-band scope: the radio is identified around a single 440MHz frequency band and FM mode, so it does not match a brief built around the FT-897D's broader coverage. Its condition is open box, another practical limitation for shoppers who do not want that condition. Choose the Kenwood when 440MHz FM and handheld use are the goal.
Final choice by use case
Choose the FT-897D when your use case calls for the broader role described above and a used unit is acceptable. Choose the Kenwood TH-46AT when a focused handheld purchase is the better match and open-box condition works for you. The decision is therefore clear: select the FT-897D for its wider remit, or keep the brief centered on the Kenwood's handheld format and 440MHz FM focus.
