Choosing between two vintage ham radio transceivers is less about picking a ready-to-use radio and more about choosing the restoration project you can live with. The Kenwood TS-820S costs less but has a dark digital display and no testing beyond power-up. The Yaesu FT-101Z costs more, is described as cosmetically decent, and is explicitly marked as needing work. Both are listed for parts or not working, so the useful question is which repair starting point fits your plan.
Quick verdict
Pick the Kenwood TS-820S when the lower listed price and included original AC power cable matter more than presentation. Pick the Yaesu FT-101Z when a cleaner cosmetic starting point matters and the higher listed price is acceptable for a restoration project. Neither is the sensible choice for someone seeking a confirmed working amateur radio transceiver: the Kenwood is otherwise untested, while the Yaesu is described as needing work.
Listed price and condition
| Model | Listed price | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Kenwood TS-820S | USD 145.00 | For parts or not working |
| Yaesu FT-101Z | USD 220.00 | For parts or not working |
The absolute listed-price spread is $75. Since the condition is the same on both, price and repair details-not the shared condition label-separate the decision.
Where each wins
- Kenwood TS-820S: A practical fit for a restoration bench that can use an original AC power cable and tolerate a dirty exterior.
- Yaesu FT-101Z: The better match for a shopper who prioritizes the stated decent cosmetic condition as a starting point.
Product notes
Kenwood TS-820S
The Kenwood TS-820S is a clearly defined hands-on project. It powers up, and its interior is described as pretty clean, giving a restorer two concrete starting points beyond the model name. The original AC power cable is included, which is useful for a bench setup. The limitation is substantial: no testing beyond power-up was done, and the digital display does not come on. The exterior is also described as very dirty after long storage. Choose it for the TS-820S model, its power-up behavior, and the included cable; pass if you need operating performance established before taking on repair work.
Yaesu FT-101Z
The Yaesu FT-101Z presents a different restoration starting point. Its description calls the cosmetic condition decent, with a few small scuffs and scratches, while the title says it powers up and needs work. That combination may suit a shopper who cares about the chassis appearance but already expects repair activity. The limitation is explicit: it is marked For parts or not working, and the title does not present it as a functioning radio. The FT-101Z model name is the main reason to select it. Choose it when that specific vintage Yaesu model is the target, not when you want a confirmed operating transceiver.
Final choice by use case
- Choose the Kenwood TS-820S for a hands-on project centered on the TS-820S model and its restoration potential, provided the known display issue fits your repair plans.
- Choose the Yaesu FT-101Z for a project specifically focused on that model, with its stated need for work accepted from the outset.
- Choose neither if your use case requires a confirmed working transceiver. Both choices are presented as parts-or-restoration units rather than fully tested radios.
