RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng UV-21R vs Yaesu FT-60R
The UV-21R is the clear winner for most users. Both radios lack digital modes, GPS, and Bluetooth, and both achieve the same 4.5/5 owner rating. The decisive factor is price: the UV-21R costs $27 against the FT-60R's $210, while the UV-21R actually delivers higher transmit power at 6W compared to the FT-60R's 5W. The FT-60R weighs 70 grams more and costs nearly eight times as much without spec advantages to justify that gap. Both support CHIRP programming, and owners report equal satisfaction across their respective review bases.
The single most important differentiator is price paired with transmit power. You get more wattage for significantly less money with the UV-21R.
Buy the UV-21R if you need a capable entry-level handheld and want to spend responsibly. Buy the FT-60R only if you have specific hands-on experience with it or need features not captured in these specifications.
Get the UV-21R. The value proposition is overwhelming unless you have particular reasons to prefer the Yaesu.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensed operator
It costs far less and covers VHF and UHF, which suits a new licensee learning local repeaters.
UV-21R 6W Tri-BandLocal ARES or simplex net volunteer
Its 999 channels and VHF/UHF coverage handle routine net traffic without a large investment.
UV-21R 6W Tri-BandSearch and rescue field team member
Its simple analog operation and 1000-channel memory suit field teams who need reliable, straightforward communication.
FT-60ROperator who prefers pure analog simplicity
It stays entirely analog on VHF and UHF, with a lighter feature set that avoids digital complexity.
FT-60RPortable operator carrying a light kit
It weighs less than the alternative, making it easier to carry on extended portable outings.
UV-21R 6W Tri-Band
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-21R
- 20% more TX power (6W vs 5W)
- 29% more battery (1800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- 70g lighter (300g vs 370g)
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R
- 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng UV-21RPICK
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