RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Radtel RT-880G vs Yaesu FT-60R
Our pick
Radtel RT-880G$97.50
The Radtel RT-880G is the clear winner here. It outperforms the Yaesu FT-60R across nearly every metric that matters to modern amateur operators.
The most significant differentiator is feature set. The RT-880G includes both APRS and GPS capabilities, doubling down on functionality that the FT-60R completely lacks. This alone justifies the price difference. Beyond that, the Radtel delivers twice the transmit power at 10W versus 5W, giving you substantially better range and penetration in real-world conditions.
The pricing gap further favors the RT-880G. At $95 compared to $210, you're spending less than half the price for a radio with demonstrably better capabilities. The overall scores tell the story: 72 versus 39 points isn't even close.
The Yaesu FT-60R has essentially no modern advantages here. If you specifically need established brand reputation and proven long-term support, there's an argument for the Yaesu, but that's a weak consolation given the performance gap.
The RT-880G is the obvious choice for virtually any amateur radio operator. Unless you have very specific reasons to prefer Yaesu equipment, the Radtel delivers superior value, power, and features at a fraction of the cost.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
Costs less than the alternative while offering APRS, GPS, and 10W transmit power for new operators.
RT-880GAnalog-only operator focused on repeater monitoring
Analog VHF and UHF operation suits repeater monitoring and simplex for buyers avoiding digital features.
FT-60RARES member needing position reporting
APRS and GPS support let the Radtel send position reports, which emergency communicators often need during field deployments.
RT-880GPortable SOTA or POTA activator on foot
Lighter weight and 10W output give portable activators more reach and less carry load than the alternative.
RT-880GSearch and rescue team needing a backup handheld
Its established analog design offers dependable backup operation for search and rescue teams that do not rely on APRS.
FT-60R
Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 2% more memory channels (1,024 vs 1,000)
- 71% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- 29g lighter (341g vs 370g)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Radtel RT-880GPICK
$97.50 on AmazonYaesu FT-60R
Search on AmazonMore head-to-heads

