Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Radtel RT-470X vs Yaesu VX-6R

The Yaesu VX-6R is the stronger choice here. Both radios omit the same digital modes and connectivity features, so the decision comes down to what we can measure: the VX-6R has a documented 5W transmit power while the RT-470X's output remains unknown, and owners report notably higher satisfaction with the VX-6R at 4.6/5 stars across 238 reviews versus 4.1/5 from 256 RT-470X owners. Weight is effectively identical at 270g and 267g. The RT-470X does list an IP54 rating for weather resistance, while the VX-6R has no published rating, though this single spec advantage doesn't outweigh the VX-6R's clearer power specification and stronger owner feedback. Both support CHIRP programming, which is useful for configuration.

The most important differentiator is owner satisfaction: the VX-6R owners report meaningfully better experiences.

The RT-470X makes sense only if you specifically need confirmed IP54 protection and the unknown power output meets your needs. Buy the VX-6R if you want a handheld with transparent specifications and strong owner endorsement.

The Yaesu VX-6R is the recommended purchase for most users seeking a capable, well-reviewed handheld radio.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New technicians starting out on local simplex

    Its higher beginner rating and simple layout make it the easier first handheld to learn on.

    RT-470X
  • Budget-conscious hobbyists buying a first VHF and UHF radio

    It costs less and still covers VHF and UHF, so it suits tight budgets.

    RT-470X
  • Day hikers wanting a light, splash-resistant radio

    Its IP54 rating resists splashes and dust, and it is slightly lighter.

    RT-470X
  • Emergency communications volunteers managing large channel lists

    The 999-channel memory and 5W output suit volunteers coordinating across many nets.

    VX-6R
  • SOTA and field activation operators on mountain summits

    Its 5W transmit power gives field activators more reach than a basic handheld offers.

    VX-6R

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-470X

  • 100% more battery (2800 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • 3g lighter (267g vs 270g)
  • Has color TFT display
  • IP54 water resistance

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • 4x more memory channels (999 vs 256)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Radtel RT-470XSpecYaesu VX-6R
52
Overall Score
50
+4% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
256
Memory Channels
999
3.8× difference
267g
Weight
270g
+1% difference
2800 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
2.0× difference
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
IP54
IP Rating
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Standard
color
Black
715748983927
UPC
788026098125
Standard
Color
Black
7.4 Volts
Voltage
3.7 Volts (DC)
FM/AM
Tuner Type
UHF
RT-470X
Model Number
VX-6R
144-148/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
0.5-999 MHz
RT-470X
Mfr Part Number
VX-6R
IP54
Waterproof Rating
JIS7
K-connector
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
Air band RX, Chirp Programming, Multi-band TX/RX, Type-C Charger, Wireless Copy frequency
Additional Features
Waterproof
1.57"D x 2.28"W x 4.6"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H

Made your choice?

Radtel RT-470XPICK

Check on Amazon

Yaesu VX-6R

Search on Amazon

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons