Icom IC-7100 vs Yaesu FT-891

The IC-7100 edges out the FT-891 despite nearly identical overall scores. The single most important differentiator is frequency coverage. The IC-7100 covers HF, 6 meters, VHF, and UHF, giving you access to 2 meters and 70 centimeters where most local repeater activity occurs. The FT-891 stops at 6 meters, making it exclusively an HF and weak signal performer.

The IC-7100 also offers RTTY and Digital Voice modes, providing additional operating flexibility that the FT-891 lacks. The trade-off is weight: the Icom is 400 grams heavier at 2.3 kilograms versus 1.9 kilograms for the Yaesu, which matters if portability is your priority.

The FT-891 should appeal to HF purists and portable operators who value light weight and straightforward functionality without the extra band coverage they won't use. The IC-7100 suits operators wanting a single radio that covers HF contesters, weak signal enthusiasts, and VHF/UHF repeater access.

The IC-7100 is the better all-around choice for most amateur operators despite its slight weight penalty. If your interests are purely HF and you frequently operate portable, the FT-891 remains competitive.