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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Sep 2026

AnyTone 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?

  • Beginner learning basic analog VHF comms

    Its simpler FM focus and high beginner score make it ideal for starting out.

    FT-65R
  • Intermediate operator needing DMR digital modes

    The dedicated DMR support and advanced features are built specifically for this use case.

    AT-D878UVII Plus
  • Advanced field survey or data logging work

    Built-in GPS, APRS, and high channel count make it superior for complex fieldwork.

    AT-D878UVII Plus
  • Budget-conscious new hobbyist needing reliability

    It offers reliable analog communication at a lower price point than the competitor.

    FT-65R
  • Operator requiring multiple modes and features

    The inclusion of DMR, APRS, and Bluetooth gives it unmatched versatility.

    AT-D878UVII Plus

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

  • 20% cheaper ($199.26 vs $249.99)
  • 65g lighter (215g vs 280g)
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D878UVII PlusSpecYaesu FT-65R
$249.99
Price
$199.26
83
Overall Score
52
+59% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+41% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
200
20.0× difference
280g
Weight
215g
+30% difference
3100 mAh
Battery
1950 mAh
+59% for winner
Color TFT
Display
LCD
IP54
IP Rating
IP54
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
BLACK
color
Clear
643451597585
UPC
702646181883 788026159543
Black
Color
Clear
5 Volts (DC)
Voltage
7.4 Volts
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
AT-D878UVII Plus
Model Number
FT-65R
antenna, battery pack, programming cable, belt clip, wrist strap, user manual, and warranty card.
Built-In Media
1950mAh Li-ion battery pack, 2.5-hour Rapid Charger, optional 2500mAh Li-ion battery pack, and 7.4V lithium-ion battery
0643451597585
Mfr Part Number
FT-65R
IP54
Waterproof Rating
IP54
Battery Strength Indicator
Additional Features
Uhf
35 Hours
Battery Average Life
9 Hours
2"D x 1"W x 5.1"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.2"D x 2.1"W x 4.1"H

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D878UVII PlusPICK

$249.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-65R

$199.26 on Amazon

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