Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
The Retevis RA79 is the clear winner here. While the Yaesu VX-6R costs eleven times more, it delivers virtually no additional capability that justifies the premium price. Both radios lack DMR, APRS, and GPS functionality, and neither excels in features that would appeal to serious operators.
The single most important differentiator is value for money. The RA79 scores significantly higher overall and costs a fraction of the VX-6R, making it the obvious choice for budget-conscious users who want basic handheld functionality without unnecessary expense.
The Retevis RA79 suits operators who need a reliable, affordable entry-level transceiver for basic VHF/UHF communication and don't mind programming via CHIRP. The Yaesu VX-6R appeals only to collectors or those with existing Yaesu ecosystem investments, though even then the lower overall score raises questions about its current relevance.
For most users, the RA79 represents better engineering and product management. Unless you have specific legacy compatibility needs with Yaesu equipment, spending thirty dollars instead of three hundred-thirty makes overwhelming financial sense. The VX-6R's premium pricing appears entirely unjustified given comparable feature sets and superior performance metrics from its cheaper competitor.
★ 4.6 (237 reviews)
| Spec | Retevis RA79 | Yaesu VX-6R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $29.99 | $299.95 |
| Overall Score | 60 | 38 |
| TX Power (High) | — | 5.00W |
| Memory Channels | 200 | 999 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 1400 mAh | 1400 mAh |
| Display | — | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Not Found | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts (DC) | 3.7 Volts (DC) |
| Frequency Range | Dual Band | 0.5-999 MHz |
| Special Feature | Emergency Alarm, Frequency copy, Lightweight, Long Range, Weather Alert | Waterproof |
| Product Dimensions | 1.48"D x 2.36"W x 4.53"H | 1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Waterproof |
| Tuner Type | [POSSIBLY] Digital | UHF |
| Item Weight | 225 Grams | 0.08 Kilograms |
| Model Number | RA79 | VX-6R |
| Compatible Devices | [Wide range of CHIRP-compatible devices] | [YAESU] |
| Additional Features | Emergency Alarm, Frequency copy, Lightweight, Long Range, Weather Alert | Waterproof |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.48"D x 2.36"W x 4.53"H | 1.1"D x 2.3"W x 3.5"H |