RadioRanked verdict
Updated Oct 2026Y23UV-98PLUS vs Yaesu FT-60R
Our pick
Y23UV-98PLUS$78.28
The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner here. It outperforms the FT-60R across nearly every metric that matters to modern amateur operators.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The Y23UV-98PLUS includes both APRS and GPS capabilities, doubling down on modern digital functionality, while the FT-60R offers neither. Combined with the Y23UV-98PLUS's superior transmit power of 10W versus the FT-60R's 5W, the choice becomes obvious. The Y23UV-98PLUS also costs less than half the price, making the FT-60R's premium positioning indefensible given its feature limitations.
The Y23UV-98PLUS suits operators who want current digital capabilities, solid power output, and value for money. The FT-60R appeals only to those seeking a lightweight, basic analog-only handheld who trust the Yaesu brand name enough to overlook its specs and price disadvantage.
Get the Y23UV-98PLUS. The FT-60R's reputation doesn't justify its cost and feature deficit in today's radio landscape. Unless you have specific loyalty to Yaesu's older products or need something for purely analog simplex work, the Y23UV-98PLUS delivers better capability at better value.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time licensee wanting an affordable starting radio
Costs less and includes APRS and GPS, giving new licensees more to explore early on.
Y23UV-98PLUSBudget-conscious buyer seeking the most features
Costs less while offering a higher feature score and 10W transmit power than the alternative.
Y23UV-98PLUSSearch and rescue field team needing dependable backup
The analog FT-60R suits field teams that prefer straightforward, familiar VHF and UHF operation.
FT-60ROperator focused on repeater monitoring and simplex
Repeater monitoring and simplex use favor the FT-60R's analog-only design over added digital modes.
FT-60RPortable camper wanting position tracking
APRS and GPS support on the Y23UV-98PLUS suit campers who want location tracking.
Y23UV-98PLUS
Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS
- 63% cheaper ($78.28 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
- Has CHIRP compatibility
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Y23UV-98PLUSPICK
$78.28 on AmazonYaesu FT-60R
$209.95 on AmazonMore head-to-heads