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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Quansheng TK11 vs Yaesu FT-5DR

Our pick

Yaesu FT-5DR$509.88

The Yaesu FT-5DR is the clear winner for most users, despite its significantly higher price.

The most important differentiator is feature set. The FT-5DR includes APRS and GPS—capabilities the TK11 lacks entirely—along with a known 5W transmit power. The TK11's transmit power is unspecified, which is a notable gap for a radio where TX capability matters. Both radios weigh essentially the same, so that's a wash.

RadioRanked's scoring reflects that the FT-5DR offers better specifications for the money. The TK11 does have owner feedback from 15 Amazon reviewers averaging 4.2 stars, suggesting real-world satisfaction, though that single data point shouldn't overshadow the missing specs.

The TK11 makes sense only as a budget option for someone who needs basic VHF/UHF FM and nothing more, accepting the unknown TX power as a trade-off. The FT-5DR is the radio for anyone planning to use APRS, need GPS capability, or simply wanting known specifications and modern features.

Buy the TK11 only if budget is your absolute constraint and you need nothing beyond basic FM operation. Buy the FT-5DR if you value APRS, GPS, known specs, and capabilities you might grow into.

Choose the Yaesu FT-5DR.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee

    The TK11 offers essential VHF/UHF functionality at a much lower cost.

    TK11
  • Advanced field operator needing waterproofing

    Its IPX7 rating ensures reliable operation even in wet or adverse conditions.

    FT-5DR
  • Ham using modern C4FM repeaters

    The FT-5DR supports C4FM, crucial for connecting to local repeater networks.

    FT-5DR
  • Casual simplex communication and basic use

    It provides simple analog operation perfect for non-technical, local chatting.

    TK11
  • Serious operator needing GPS and APRS features

    The built-in GPS and APRS capabilities elevate its utility significantly.

    FT-5DR

Reasons to choose Quansheng TK11

  • 81% cheaper ($96.99 vs $509.88)
  • 36% more battery (3000 mAh vs 2200 mAh)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-5DR

  • 20% more memory channels (1,200 vs 999)
  • 2g lighter (282g vs 284g)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has C4FM/System Fusion
  • Has color TFT display
  • IPX7 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Quansheng TK11SpecYaesu FT-5DR
$96.99
Price
$509.88
33
Overall Score
64
+92% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
999
Memory Channels
1200
+20% for winner
284g
Weight
282g
+1% difference
3000 mAh
Battery
2200 mAh
+37% for winner
—
Display
Color TFT Touchscreen
—
IP Rating
IPX7
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Not required (Part 97 amateur)
Black
color
Black

Made your choice?

Quansheng TK11

$96.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-5DRPICK

$509.88 on Amazon

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