RadioRanked verdict
Updated Sep 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?
Beginner learning basic analog VHF comms
Its simpler FM focus and high beginner score make it ideal for starting out.
FT-65RIntermediate operator needing DMR digital modes
The dedicated DMR support and advanced features are built specifically for this use case.
AT-D878UVII PlusAdvanced field survey or data logging work
Built-in GPS, APRS, and high channel count make it superior for complex fieldwork.
AT-D878UVII PlusBudget-conscious new hobbyist needing reliability
It offers reliable analog communication at a lower price point than the competitor.
FT-65ROperator 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
Made your choice?
AnyTone AT-D878UVII PlusPICK
$249.99 on AmazonYaesu FT-65R
$199.26 on AmazonKeep researching
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