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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Retevis RA89 vs Yaesu FT-60R

The Retevis RA89 is the clear winner here. Despite its unknown specifications, it delivers a significantly higher overall score of 58 versus 39, while costing less than a third of the price. The most important differentiator is value for money. The RA89 offers better performance at a fraction of the cost, making the FT-60R's premium price impossible to justify given its lower score.

The Retevis RA89 should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want solid fundamental performance without overspending. The Yaesu FT-60R would only interest those with a specific loyalty to the Yaesu brand or unusual requirements not captured in this comparison.

The missing specifications on the RA89 (TX power and weight) are concerning for a complete evaluation, but the substantial score gap and dramatic price difference already tell a compelling story. Before purchasing either radio, verify the RA89's TX power and weight specifications to ensure they meet your needs. If those specs are acceptable, the RA89 is the obvious choice for nearly all amateur operators looking for a capable handheld without excessive expense.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained buyer wanting a basic handheld

    It costs considerably less than the alternative while still covering VHF and UHF with 200 memory channels.

    Retevis RA89
  • New hobbyist needing a first handheld

    It earns a higher beginner-friendliness score and includes CHIRP support for easy programming.

    Retevis RA89
  • Emergency preparedness and weather-exposed field use

    Its IP68 rating offers strong dust and water protection for rough outdoor deployments.

    Retevis RA89
  • Licensed operator needing a rugged search and rescue radio

    Its 5W transmit power and 1000 memory channels suit demanding field operations and repeater work.

    FT-60R
  • Repeater monitoring with a preference for analog simplicity

    It offers a higher features score and a pure analog VHF and UHF design with ample memory for monitoring.

    FT-60R

Reasons to choose Retevis RA89

  • 79% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • 75g lighter (295g vs 370g)
  • IP68 water resistance

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R

  • 5x more memory channels (1,000 vs 200)
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Retevis RA89SpecYaesu FT-60R
49
Overall Score
45
+9% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
200
Memory Channels
1000
5.0× difference
295g
Weight
370g
+25% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+79% for winner
LCD
Display
—
IP68
IP Rating
—
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
Black
Color
Black
dual band
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
RA89
Model Number
FT-60R
1 x 2500mAh Li-ion Batteries, 1 x RA89 Two Way Radio, 1 x USB-C Charging Cable, Belt Clip, User Manual
Built-In Media
1400mA Battery, Charger, antenna, belt clip
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
144 - 148 MHz
Dual Band (VHF, UHF) Two-Way Radios, 2Pin K Plug Accessories
Compatible Devices
MH-37A4B, MH-34B4B, E-DC-5B, EDC-6, CT-44, FBA-25A
Long Range, Rechargable, Noise Reduction, IP68 Waterproof, FM Radio, Type-C Charging, dual band ham radio; handheld radio; ham radio handheld; amateur radio; waterproof two way radio; walkie talkies long range
Additional Features
Weather Alert
We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours
Warranty Description
3 Years

Made your choice?

Retevis RA89PICK

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Yaesu FT-60R

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