Choosing among ham radio transceivers comes down to one practical question: do you need a unit described as working, a radio with HF/VHF flexibility, a mode-focused HF setup, or a restoration project? The four choices here split cleanly along those lines. Start with condition and intended use, then use price to settle close calls.
Quick take
Begin by separating operation-oriented buying from restoration. The Yaesu FT-890, Icom IC-706, and Yaesu FT-840 belong in the first comparison, while the Kenwood TS-820S belongs in a repair-focused lane. Once that fork is clear, the decision becomes easier: match the radio to your operating priorities, then decide how much the listed price matters.
Listed-price comparison
The absolute listed spread is $345, from the Kenwood TS-820S at the low end to the Icom IC-706 at the high end. That gap is important because the Kenwood is marked For parts or not working, unlike the three radios listed as Used.
| Product | Listed price | Price bar |
|---|---|---|
| Yaesu FT-890 | USD 450.00 | |
| Icom IC-706 | USD 490.00 | |
| Yaesu FT-840 | USD 425.00 | |
| Kenwood TS-820S | USD 145.00 |
Decision matrix
- Operation-led: Yaesu FT-890
- Band-range-led: Icom IC-706
- Mode-led: Yaesu FT-840
- Restoration-led: Kenwood TS-820S
Use the first line that matches the job. The low-priced Kenwood should not be treated as a direct substitute for a radio whose condition is simply listed as Used; its appeal is tied to restoration rather than a confirmed operating purchase.
Product notes
Yaesu FT-890 HF Amateur Ham Radio Transceiver
The Yaesu FT-890 is a strong match for an operation-first buyer because its title explicitly says *Tested Working* and includes a microphone and DC cable. It is a black, used model identified as FT-890, which keeps the choice easy to distinguish from the other Yaesu radio here. The limitation is its Used condition, so buyers should be comfortable with a pre-owned unit rather than expecting a new-radio purchase. Choose the FT-890 when clearly stated working status and included accessories matter more than pursuing the lowest entry price.
Icom IC-706 HF/VHF Amateur Ham Radio Transceiver
The Icom IC-706 is the most direct match for a buyer who wants HF/VHF amateur radio use and an LCD screen. Its title includes a microphone, and the radio is also identified with HF and VHF frequency coverage. That combination gives the IC-706 a clear role for shoppers prioritizing band-range flexibility. The limitation is equally clear: it is listed as Used and carries the highest price among the four choices. Choose it when the title's HF/VHF configuration and screen matter enough to outweigh the appeal of a lower-priced radio.
Yaesu FT-840 HF Amateur Radio Transceiver
The Yaesu FT-840 offers a mode-oriented HF choice: CW, FM, and AM are named, along with an LCD screen and original packaging. The model is listed as Used, and the warranty information says No manufacturer warranty, giving the buyer a concrete limitation to weigh. Its title identifies it as an HF amateur radio transceiver, while the compatibility wording is Universal. That mix suits someone who wants the listed modes and screen rather than a restoration task. The no-warranty status means the decision should stay grounded in the stated used condition.
Kenwood TS-820S Vintage Ham Radio Transceiver
The Kenwood TS-820S is the restoration-oriented choice because it is marked For parts or not working and is described as powering up but otherwise untested. The original AC power cable is included, which is useful for a bench or restoration project. The limitations are substantial and explicit: the digital display does not come on, the unit is dirty, and it is sold as-is for parts or restoration. Pick the TS-820S when restoration itself is the goal. Powering up alone should not be treated as confirmation that the transceiver operates normally.
Final recommendation by use case
- For an operation-led purchase: choose the Yaesu FT-890 at USD 450.00. The title's *Tested Working* wording is the most direct match for that priority.
- For a band-range-focused setup: choose the Icom IC-706 at USD 490.00. Its HF/VHF wording is the concrete reason to select it, with the highest listed price as the trade-off.
- For a mode-led setup: choose the Yaesu FT-840 at USD 425.00. The LCD screen is a useful tie-breaker, while the Used condition and no manufacturer warranty should remain part of the decision.
- For restoration: choose the Kenwood TS-820S at USD 145.00. Its title's powers-up wording, combined with the untested and as-is language, makes the project lane clear.
For a radio intended for operation rather than repair, compare the Yaesu FT-890, Icom IC-706, and Yaesu FT-840 by use case. Keep the Kenwood TS-820S in consideration only when the restoration work is part of what you want.
