RadioRanked verdict
Updated Jul 2026Y23UV-98PLUS vs Yaesu FTA550
Our pick
Y23UV-98PLUS$96.85
The Y23UV-98PLUS is the clear winner here. This isn't even close given the dramatic difference in overall scores and feature set. Radio B arrives severely handicapped with a 33/100 rating, no GPS or APRS capability, and an unknown transmit power specification that should raise red flags. At 2.5 times the price, you're getting substantially less.
The single most important differentiator is the feature package. Radio A delivers GPS and APRS functionality—critical tools for emergency communication and mobile operations—while Radio B offers neither. Combined with Radio A's lower price point and significantly higher review score, there's no practical reason to choose Radio B unless you have a very specific use case we're not seeing in these specs.
The Y23UV-98PLUS suits budget-conscious operators who need modern features like GPS tracking and APRS messaging without breaking the bank. The Yaesu FTA550 might interest only those who already own one and need compatibility with existing equipment, though even that's a stretch given its poor rating.
Buy the Y23UV-98PLUS. It offers better value, better features, and better reviews at a fraction of the cost. Radio B appears to be either outdated or poorly reviewed for reasons these specs alone can't explain.
By use case
Which should you buy?
First-time amateur radio licensee
It offers a great balance of features, GPS, and a beginner-friendly price point.
Y23UV-98PLUSStudent or private pilot needing air comms
This radio is specifically designed for reliable analog VHF/UHF communication in controlled airspace.
Yaesu FTA550Budget-conscious portable field operator
The lower cost and built-in APRS/GPS make it perfect for budget-minded field use.
Y23UV-98PLUSAdvanced digital mode or APRS user
Its native support for APRS and modern features makes it far superior for digital operations.
Y23UV-98PLUSDedicated airshow or flight monitoring enthusiast
Its specialized analog design is optimized for reliable, non-digital monitoring of aviation frequencies.
Yaesu FTA550
Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS
- 58% cheaper ($96.85 vs $229.96)
- 5x more memory channels (1,024 vs 200)
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Yaesu FTA550
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Y23UV-98PLUSPICK
$96.85 on AmazonYaesu FTA550
$229.96 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

