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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Y23UV-98PLUS vs Yaesu FT-60R

Our pick

Y23UV-98PLUS$96.85

The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner here. This isn't particularly close given the significant price and capability gap between these two radios.

The single most important differentiator is feature set versus cost. Radio A delivers APRS and GPS functionality for $85, doubling Radio B's transmission power at half the price. Radio B's $190 price tag buys you essentially a basic dual-band transceiver with no modern features and weak 5-watt output. The overall scores reflect this disparity accurately, with Radio A scoring 72 to Radio B's 39.

The Y23UV-98PLUS is ideal for budget-conscious operators who want modern conveniences like APRS tracking and GPS capability without breaking the bank. The Yaesu FT-60R might appeal only to operators seeking a heritage brand or specific compatibility with existing systems, though at this price point there are better options available.

Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS unless you have a specific technical requirement only the FT-60R meets. For most amateur radio use cases, particularly portable and emergency applications, Radio A provides dramatically better value and more useful features. The choice to recommend Radio B would be difficult to justify.

Runner-up
Yaesu FT-60R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginner entering amateur radio

    Its comprehensive features and beginner focus make it an excellent starting point.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Advanced operator needing pure analog simplicity

    The FT-60R offers reliable, straightforward analog operation without digital complexity.

    FT-60R
  • Budget-conscious portable field use

    The lower price point combined with essential features provides great value.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Search and rescue or emergency operations

    Its focus on reliable analog simplex communication is ideal for emergency use.

    FT-60R
  • Operator needing basic APRS tracking

    The built-in APRS functionality is specifically designed for tracking and data exchange.

    Y23UV-98PLUS

Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS

  • 54% cheaper ($96.85 vs $209.95)
  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 2% more memory channels (1,024 vs 1,000)
  • 71% more battery (2400 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R

  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Y23UV-98PLUSSpecYaesu FT-60R
$96.85
Price
$209.95
70
Overall Score
39
+79% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
1024
Memory Channels
1000
+2% for winner
2400 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+72% for winner
TFT Color
Display
Not Found
FCC Authorization
Authorized
Standard
color
Black
Standard
Color
Black
Y23UV-98PLUS
Model Number
FT-60R
1x Y23UV-98PLUS Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x MW Antenna, 1x SW Antenna,1x English User Manual
Built-In Media
1400mA Battery, Charger, antenna, belt clip
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
144 - 148 MHz
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Compatible Devices
MH-37A4B, MH-34B4B, E-DC-5B, EDC-6, CT-44, FBA-25A
1024 Chlannels, AM FM SSB R Eeception, Adjustable Receiver Sensitivity, Cross Band Repeater, GPS/APRS
Additional Features
Weather Alert
1 Year
Warranty Description
3 Years
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Y23UV-98PLUSPICK

$96.85 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-60R

$209.95 on Amazon

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