RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus vs Yaesu FT-65R
Our pick
AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus$249.99
The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is the clear winner if you need digital modes and GPS, but the Yaesu FT-65R is the better value for basic analog use.
The most important difference is feature set. The AnyTone adds DMR, APRS, and GPS capability for fifty dollars more, while the Yaesu strips those out but gains CHIRP programming support and weighs 65 grams less. Both share the same IP54 rating. Owners report 4.8 out of 5 stars on the AnyTone from 6 reviews and 4.6 out of 5 on the Yaesu from 464 reviews. The Yaesu's much larger review pool provides stronger buyer confidence in what owners are reporting, though both ratings are positive.
The AnyTone suits operators who want digital networks, location sharing, or dual-mode flexibility and don't mind carrying extra weight or spending the premium. The Yaesu fits budget-conscious users who need a lightweight analog radio and prefer the convenience of CHIRP configuration.
Buy the Yaesu FT-65R unless digital modes or GPS are on your shortlist. The Yaesu's lower price, lighter weight, and stronger review volume make it the practical choice for straightforward VHF/UHF work.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee learning basic handheld operation
It has a higher beginner score and a simpler analog FM interface that is easier to learn on.
FT-65RBudget-constrained buyer wanting a capable field radio
It costs less than the alternative while still covering VHF and UHF with a durable IP54 rating.
FT-65RIntermediate DMR operator seeking digital and analog modes
It supports both DMR and FM with a much higher feature score and 4000 memory channels.
AT-D878UVII PlusField survey worker needing location and APRS tracking
Built-in GPS and APRS support make it suited to mapping and position reporting in the field.
AT-D878UVII PlusARES or RACES volunteer using local analog repeaters
Its reliable FM operation and 5W output suit repeater-based emergency communications without digital complexity.
FT-65ROperator wanting a lighter handheld for portable outings
At 215 grams it is noticeably lighter than the 280 gram alternative for long days on foot.
FT-65R
Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus
- 40% more TX power (7W vs 5W)
- 20x more memory channels (4,000 vs 200)
- 59% more battery (3100 mAh vs 1950 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-65R
- 25% cheaper ($188.00 vs $249.99)
- 65g lighter (215g vs 280g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D878UVII PlusPICK
$249.99 on AmazonYaesu FT-65R
$188.00 on AmazonKeep researching
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