RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Retevis A3 vs Yaesu FT-70DR
Our pick
Yaesu FT-70DR$249.88
The Yaesu FT-70DR is the clear winner for most users, offering substantially better listed specifications for the money despite its higher price.
The most important differentiator is CHIRP support on the Yaesu, which enables computer-aided programming and frequency management—a major convenience factor for active operators. The Yaesu also weighs less and carries a much stronger owner rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 6 reviewers, compared to the Retevis's 3.6 out of 5 from 31 reviewers. We don't have the Retevis's transmit power specification, but the Yaesu's 5-watt output is standard for handhelds. RadioRanked's overall score of 49 for the Yaesu versus 27 for the Retevis reflects better specifications relative to current pricing.
The Retevis A3 makes sense only for budget-conscious users with minimal radio needs who want to spend under 110 dollars and accept what owners report as a less-polished experience. The Yaesu FT-70DR suits anyone willing to invest in a radio with modern programming conveniences and stronger owner satisfaction across a broader range of use cases.
Get the Yaesu FT-70DR.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee on a tight budget
Costs less and covers VHF, UHF, and 6m for basic analog experimenting and repeater use.
A3Local club member using Fusion repeaters
C4FM digital support lets this operator use Fusion repeaters that the analog-only A3 cannot access.
FT-70DRField operator needing weather-resistant portable gear
The IP54 rating and lighter 250g body suit outdoor use better than the heavier A3.
FT-70DROperator who wants 6m band access
The A3 includes 6m coverage, which the FT-70DR does not offer.
A3Operator who programs channels heavily with CHIRP
CHIRP support and 1108 memory channels give more programming flexibility than the A3's 999.
FT-70DR
Reasons to choose Retevis A3
- 56% cheaper ($109.99 vs $249.88)
- 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-70DR
- 11% more memory channels (1,108 vs 999)
- 36g lighter (250g vs 286g)
- Has C4FM/System Fusion
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- IP54 water resistance
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Retevis A3
$109.99 on AmazonYaesu FT-70DRPICK
$249.88 on AmazonKeep researching
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