RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-860 vs Yaesu FT-65R
Our pick
Yaesu FT-65R$188.00
The FT-65R is the clear winner for most users, though the RT-860 makes sense as a budget option.
The most important differentiator is price versus owner feedback. The FT-65R costs five times more at $199, but it commands a significantly higher owner rating of 4.6 out of 5 across 464 reviews, compared to the RT-860's 3.9 out of 5 from 139 reviews. The FT-65R also offers CHIRP support for easier programming and is lighter at 215g. RadioRanked's composite score of 52 versus 45 reflects better specifications for the money, though we lack the RT-860's transmit power specification, which limits our full comparison.
The RT-860 is worth considering only if budget is your absolute constraint and you accept minimal owner validation. The FT-65R should be your choice if you value reliability signals from actual users and want a radio that's easier to program and configure.
Buy the RT-860 only as a disposable trial radio. Buy the FT-65R if you want a handheld that owners consistently report working well.
The FT-65R's stronger owner endorsement justifies its premium, making it the better value for anyone planning to actually use their radio.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time licensee
It costs far less than the alternative, letting a new technician start on local repeaters without a large outlay.
RT-860Operator needing a large channel memory
Its 1024-channel memory holds far more channels than the 200 offered by the Yaesu.
RT-860Weight-focused hiker carrying a radio all day
Its 255g body is heavier, so this scenario favors the lighter 215g Yaesu instead.
RT-860ARES or RACES volunteer on local repeaters
Its 5W transmit power and IP54 rating suit reliable repeater and emergency work in harsher conditions.
FT-65RField operator needing dependable analog comms
The IP54 rating and CHIRP programming support dependable outdoor analog communication with a well-known brand.
FT-65RBasic simplex user wanting cheap scanning
Analog VHF and UHF coverage with large memory meets basic simplex and scanning needs at a lower cost.
RT-860
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-860
- 80% cheaper ($36.99 vs $188.00)
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 200)
- 3% more battery (2000 mAh vs 1950 mAh)
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-65R
- 40g lighter (215g vs 255g)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- IP54 water resistance
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-860
$36.99 on AmazonYaesu FT-65RPICK
$188.00 on AmazonKeep researching
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