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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng UV-25 vs Yaesu VX-6R

The Baofeng UV-25 is the clear winner here. This is a straightforward choice that favors the radio offering substantially better value and features.

The single most important differentiator is the price-to-performance ratio combined with practical features. The UV-25 costs one-sixth the price while delivering double the transmit power, includes GPS functionality, and maintains CHIRP programmability. The Yaesu VX-6R's higher cost isn't justified by its specifications or overall score, which lags significantly at 38/100.

The UV-25 suits budget-conscious operators and those seeking a capable everyday handheld with modern conveniences like GPS and easy computer programming. The VX-6R might appeal only to users with specific loyalty to Yaesu's brand or those requiring features these specs don't capture, though its low overall score suggests limited reasons to choose it.

For most amateur radio operators, particularly newcomers and those wanting reliable performance without premium pricing, the Baofeng UV-25 is the recommended choice. You're getting superior specs, better programmability, and GPS capability while saving $280, money better spent on antennas, batteries, or other station equipment.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee wanting higher power and easier setup

    Offers 10W output and easier setup for new licensees learning the hobby.

    UV-25
  • Weight-conscious hiker or backpacker

    At 270g, the Yaesu is considerably lighter for long days carrying gear outdoors.

    VX-6R
  • SOTA summit activator

    Lower weight and a simpler VHF/UHF focus fit summit activations where every gram counts.

    VX-6R
  • Multi-band operator interested in 1.25m

    The 1.25m band coverage gives Baofeng access to frequencies the Yaesu cannot reach.

    UV-25

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-25

  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 271% more battery (5200 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 138g lighter (270g vs 408g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng UV-25SpecYaesu VX-6R
61
Overall Score
50
+22% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
999
Memory Channels
999
408g
Weight
270g
+52% difference
5200 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
3.7× difference
Color LCD
Display
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF
UV-25 Plus
Model Number
VX-6R
UHF VHF 1.25M
Frequency Range
0.5-999 MHz
Repeater
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
2" Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Rechargable with USB-C Port, Voice Operated Transmission
Additional Features
Waterproof
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof
5.91"D x 1.97"W x 2.76"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Baofeng UV-25PICK

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Yaesu VX-6R

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