Retevis A3 vs Yaesu FT-65R

The Yaesu FT-65R is the clear winner for most users.

The most important differentiator is owner feedback. The FT-65R has earned a 4.6/5 rating from 464 Amazon reviewers, while the Retevis A3 sits at 3.6/5 from just 31 reviews. That's substantially more owner confidence backed by a much larger sample size. The FT-65R also offers CHIRP support for easier programming, weighs 71 grams less, and delivers specified 5W transmit power—we don't have the A3's TX output figure. RadioRanked's overall score reflects this: the FT-65R scores 52/100 versus the A3's 27/100, meaning you get better listed specs for your money despite the higher price.

The A3's only real advantage is cost: at $108 versus $199, it's roughly half the price. If budget is your absolute constraint and you need a basic handheld radio, the A3 might suffice. However, the A3's limited owner feedback and missing specifications make it harder to predict real-world performance.

Buy the Yaesu FT-65R if you want a radio that owners consistently report on positively, with better features and documented specs. Buy the Retevis A3 only if you're severely budget-constrained and accepting higher risk on an unproven option.