RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026Baofeng UV-25 vs Yaesu FT-60R
Our pick
Baofeng UV-25$54.39
The Baofeng UV-25 is the clear winner here. This is a straightforward comparison where one radio outperforms the other across nearly every meaningful metric.
The single most important differentiator is value proposition. The UV-25 costs one-quarter the price while delivering double the transmit power, GPS functionality, and CHIRP programming support. The Yaesu's significantly lower overall score of 39 versus 76 reflects real performance gaps that don't justify its premium pricing.
The UV-25 is the obvious choice for budget-conscious operators and anyone wanting modern features like GPS and computer programmability. The FT-60R might appeal only to someone with a specific attachment to Yaesu's ecosystem or legacy radio collection, though even then the value proposition is questionable.
Buy the Baofeng UV-25. It delivers substantially more capability and features at a fraction of the cost, making it the superior option for virtually any amateur radio operator. Unless you have compelling reasons to stay within the Yaesu ecosystem, spending nearly four times as much for an objectively weaker radio is difficult to justify. The UV-25's higher score and feature set make this an easy recommendation.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious beginner needing modern features
The Baofeng offers superior features and power for a much lower entry cost.
UV-25Experienced operator needing pure analog reliability
The Yaesu's analog simplicity and reputation make it ideal for reliable repeater monitoring.
FT-60RField operations requiring GPS and APRS tracking
Its built-in GPS and APRS support make it superior for coordinate sharing in the field.
UV-25Operator prioritizing ultra-simple, robust backup radio
The Yaesu's focus on analog simplicity provides a trustworthy fallback for critical comms.
FT-60RIntermediate user needing multi-band flexibility
The Baofeng's multi-band capability and high channel count support diverse operations.
UV-25
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-25
- 74% cheaper ($54.39 vs $209.95)
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 271% more battery (5200 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has built-in GPS
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- 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-25PICK
$54.39 on AmazonYaesu FT-60R
$209.95 on AmazonKeep researching
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