Choosing between ham radio transceivers comes down to a practical tradeoff: do you want broader stated band coverage, or a lower-priced HF radio with a mic and DC cable named in the title? Both options are used and described as tested working, but they target different station priorities. The FT-897D emphasizes multi-band, all-mode operation, while the Yaesu FT-890 keeps the focus on HF.
Quick verdict
Choose the FT-897D if the explicitly named HF/VHF/UHF range and all-mode designation match your operating plans. Choose the Yaesu FT-890 if you want the lower price and the title's included mic and DC cable. The difference between the two listed prices is $288.20, making the intended use case more important than a simple price comparison.
At a glance
| Radio | Listed price | Model and condition |
|---|---|---|
| FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode Ham Radio Transceiver Amateur Radio 100W | USD 738.20 | FT-897D; Used |
| Yaesu FT-890 HF Amateur Ham Radio Transceiver w Mic DC Cable Tested Working | USD 450.00 | FT-890; Used |
Where each product wins
FT-897D wins for broader stated coverage
The FT-897D is the more direct match for an operator who needs the frequency range explicitly named for HF (160m-10m), 6m, 2m, and 70cm. Its title also identifies it as an HF/VHF/UHF all-mode transceiver and includes a 100W label. Choose it when those named bands and operating modes align with your station plan.
Yaesu FT-890 wins for a lower-priced HF setup
The Yaesu FT-890 is the straightforward choice when your plans center on HF and the lower listed price matters. Its title specifically includes a mic and DC cable, giving the purchase a clearly stated package cue. Choose it when those named items are useful to your setup and you do not need the FT-897D's more expansive stated band description.
Product notes
FT-897D HF/VHF/UHF All Mode
The FT-897D earns consideration for shoppers who want the title's "HF/VHF/UHF All Mode" designation alongside its 100W label. Its stated range is specific-HF (160m-10m), 6m, 2m, and 70cm-so it is a direct fit for a station planned around those bands. The main limitation is the ownership tradeoff: it is used, the description mentions scratches and signs of use, and no manufacturer warranty is specified. Its USD 738.20 price also places it $288.20 above the FT-890. Choose the FT-897D for its clearly named operating scope, while treating the higher outlay and no-warranty condition as essential parts of the decision.
Yaesu FT-890 HF Amateur Ham Radio Transceiver
The Yaesu FT-890 suits a shopper whose station is centered on HF and who wants the title's "w Mic DC Cable" wording. Its description says the radio works and is tested, matching the tested-working language in the title. The limitation is scope clarity: the title identifies HF, while the FT-897D explicitly names HF/VHF/UHF and additional bands. That makes the FT-890 the less explicit match for someone shopping around those broader bands. It is also used, so its lower price should be considered alongside its pre-owned condition. For an HF-centered setup, the named mic and DC cable give this radio a concrete reason to choose it.
Final choice by use case
- For multi-band planning: choose the FT-897D, whose title and stated range directly address HF, VHF, and UHF use.
- For an HF-centered station: choose the Yaesu FT-890, especially when the lower listed price and included mic/DC cable fit your priorities.
- When warranty coverage matters: the FT-897D has no manufacturer warranty specified, so that condition should be weighed before choosing it.
In short, the FT-897D is the more suitable match for its broader named operating scope, while the Yaesu FT-890 is the simpler choice for HF buyers who want to spend less and receive the mic and DC cable identified in its title.
