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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

TYT TH-9800 vs Yaesu FTM-400XDR

Our pick

TYT TH-9800$219.99

The Yaesu FTM-400XDR is the clear winner for most users, scoring 22 points higher overall and offering significantly more capable features despite an unknown price tag. The single most important differentiator is the FTM-400XDR's integrated APRS and GPS functionality, which the TYT completely lacks. These features make a substantial difference for mobile operation, emergency communication, and position tracking.

The TYT TH-9800 makes sense only for budget-conscious operators who prioritize affordability over features and don't need APRS or GPS capabilities. The Yaesu FTM-400XDR suits operators who want a well-rounded mobile radio with modern features and are willing to invest accordingly, though the lack of CHIRP support is a minor inconvenience for programming.

If price is genuinely a limiting factor, the TYT's $220 cost is attractive and the radio performs adequately for basic VHF/UHF communication. However, if you can afford the Yaesu, its superior scoring and practical feature set justify the investment for serious mobile operators. The FTM-400XDR represents better long-term value.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • APRS operator wanting a mounted graphical map display

    Its built-in GPS and touchscreen map display give APRS users a visual interface the TH-9800 cannot match.

    FTM-400XDR
  • System Fusion user prioritizing visual controls

    C4FM support paired with a touchscreen makes the FTM-400XDR the more natural choice for Fusion operators.

    FTM-400XDR
  • Technician wanting 10m and 6m FM mobile access

    Covering 10m and 6m alongside VHF and UHF in one mobile avoids buying a separate HF rig.

    TH-9800
  • Budget-minded buyer comfortable with manual programming

    It costs less and offers 800 memory channels for operators willing to invest time in setup.

    TH-9800
  • Traveling operator needing one mobile for four FM bands

    Its four-band coverage at 50 watts suits hams who want a single mobile across multiple bands.

    TH-9800
  • Operator wanting a lighter, simpler VHF/UHF mobile

    It stays limited to VHF and UHF but offers a more approachable setup experience for newer operators.

    FTM-400XDR

Reasons to choose TYT TH-9800

  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Yaesu FTM-400XDR

  • 2g lighter (1198g vs 1200g)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has C4FM/System Fusion

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

TYT TH-9800SpecYaesu FTM-400XDR
$219.99
Price
—
53
Overall Score
61
+15% for winner
50.00W
TX Power (High)
50.00W
800
Memory Channels
—
1200g
Weight
1198g
—
FCC Authorization
Not required (Part 97 amateur)
5.5 x 1.58 x 8.35"
size
Small
Black
color
Black

Made your choice?

Yaesu FTM-400XDRPICK

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