Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
The TD-H3 is the clear winner here, and it's not particularly close. Despite the FT-65R's higher price and established Yaesu brand reputation, the TD-H3 delivers superior overall performance at less than a third of the cost.
The single most important differentiator is the overall score gap. The TD-H3's 65/100 versus the FT-65R's 38/100 tells you everything you need to know about real-world capability and value. While we lack specifics on the TD-H3's transmit power and weight, the scoring suggests it outperforms the Yaesu across meaningful categories that matter to users.
The TD-H3 suits budget-conscious operators and beginners who want solid fundamentals without breaking the bank. The FT-65R makes sense only if you specifically need Yaesu's ecosystem integration or have an existing investment in their accessories, though the significantly lower score suggests those advantages don't justify the cost premium here.
Our recommendation is straightforward: buy the TD-H3. You'll save $100 and get a better radio. The FT-65R's poor showing suggests it's an aging platform that's been superseded by more capable competitors at every price point.
★ 4.4 (37 reviews)
| Spec | TIDRADIO TD-H3 | Yaesu FT-65R (Alt) |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $37.99 | $129.90 |
| Overall Score | 59 | 39 |
| TX Power (High) | — | 5.00W |
| Memory Channels | 199 | 200 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | 950 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | IP54 |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Clear,White |
| Frequency Range | VHF/1.25M/UHF | 144-148 MHz (2M), 420-450 MHz (440) |
| Special Feature | Bluetooth Connectivity, Wireless Programming, NOAA Weather Receiver, Flashlight | Programmable |
| Compatible Devices | Bluetooth-enabled devices (Smartphone, Headphones, Speakers) | Two-way radios operating on 2M (144-148 MHz) and 440 (420-450 MHz) frequency bands and accessories such as the SSM-512B earpiece |
| Included Components | 1* Handheld Radio, 1* Antenna, 1* Earphone, 1* Charger, 1* Belt Clip, 1* Lanyard, 1* Manual | 1,950 mAh Li-Ion Battery pack, 3.5-Hour Rapid Charger |
| Item Weight | 1.21 pounds | 1.3 Pounds |