Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus vs Yaesu FT-60R
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Yaesu FT-60R is the clear winner in this matchup. Both radios are identically matched on core specifications—matching 5W transmit power, identical feature sets lacking DMR/APRS/GPS, and similar pricing within $10 of each other. However, the FT-60R's overall score of 39/100 versus the Wouxun's 33/100 reflects meaningful real-world advantages that matter to operators.
The single most important differentiator is Yaesu's superior build quality and long-term reliability. The FT-60R has earned its reputation as a workhorse radio with excellent durability, better ergonomics, and proven longevity in the field. Wouxun radios, while budget-friendly, have historically struggled with longevity issues and inconsistent quality control.
The Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus makes sense only for operators on an extremely tight budget who plan minimal use or view it as a disposable backup radio. The Yaesu FT-60R is the logical choice for anyone who plans regular operation and wants a radio that will remain reliable for years of service.
For most amateur radio operators, spend the extra ten dollars and choose the FT-60R. The superior reliability and resale value make it the smarter investment despite the minimal price premium.
Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus
- 5% cheaper ($179.99 vs $189.95)
Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R
- 0% more memory channels (1,000 vs 999)
$179.99 on Amazon
★ 4.0 (42 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus | Yaesu FT-60R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $179.99 | $189.95 |
| Overall Score | 33 | 39 |
| TX Power (High) | 5.00W | 5.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 | 1000 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | — | 1400 mAh |
| Display | — | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Frequency Range | 136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz | 144 - 148 MHz |
| Special Feature | Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater | Weather Alert |
| Water Resistance Level | Waterproof | Water Resistant |
| UPC | 726312619104 | 702685258409 788026125661 788026094066 788026138807 |
| Tuner Type | UHF | UHF, VHF |
| Model Number | KG UV9D Plus | FT-60R |
| Compatible Devices | RM | MH-37A4B, MH-34B4B, E-DC-5B, EDC-6, CT-44, FBA-25A |
| Additional Features | Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater | Weather Alert |