RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026TYT MD-UV390 vs Yaesu FT-5DR
Our pick
Yaesu FT-5DR$489.95
The MD-UV390 is the clear winner if budget matters. Both radios transmit at identical 5-watt power, but the TYT costs a quarter of the Yaesu's price. The MD-UV390 includes DMR digital mode support and meets IP67 waterproofing; the FT-5DR adds APRS, GPS, Bluetooth, C4FM, and CHIRP programming software alongside IPX7 protection. The single most important differentiator is the feature set gap: the Yaesu delivers substantially more capabilities for digital communications and field operations, while the TYT covers DMR-focused use cases at budget pricing.
Buy the MD-UV390 if you operate on DMR networks, want minimal spending, and trust the 4.0-star owner rating from 142 Amazon reviewers who report on real-world performance. Buy the FT-5DR if you need APRS tracking, onboard GPS, Bluetooth connectivity, and C4FM support, accepting the higher price against zero owner feedback yet.
The MD-UV390 wins on value and verified user satisfaction. However, the FT-5DR's feature breadth appeals to operators who prioritize capability over cost. Choose based on your network mode and budget, not the score gap.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious hams wanting to try DMR
It costs far less than the Yaesu while still offering DMR access for operators testing digital modes.
MD-UV390Wet or dusty outdoor operators needing rugged protection
Its IP67 rating provides full dust sealing and submersion protection for harsh outdoor conditions.
MD-UV390Operators on C4FM repeater networks
It supports C4FM and WiRES-X natively, which the TYT cannot use on Fusion repeaters.
FT-5DRField operators wanting APRS and GPS features
Built-in APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth give it a much higher feature set for mobile and field use.
FT-5DRBeginners wanting a simpler, more intuitive handheld
It has a higher beginner-friendliness score and a more straightforward setup for newcomers.
FT-5DRMac users who need desktop programming software
The TYT's programming software runs only on Windows, while the Yaesu works with CHIRP and Bluetooth tools.
FT-5DR
Reasons to choose TYT MD-UV390
- 75% cheaper ($120.99 vs $489.95)
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,200)
- Has DMR digital mode
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-5DR
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has C4FM/System Fusion
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- Has color TFT display
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
TYT MD-UV390
$120.99 on AmazonYaesu FT-5DRPICK
$489.95 on AmazonKeep researching
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