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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Jul 2026

Y23UV-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 Radio B appears to be either outdated or poorly reviewed for reasons these specs alone can't explain.

Runner-up
Yaesu FTA550

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-98PLUS
  • Student or private pilot needing air comms

    This radio is specifically designed for reliable analog VHF/UHF communication in controlled airspace.

    Yaesu FTA550
  • Budget-conscious portable field operator

    The lower cost and built-in APRS/GPS make it perfect for budget-minded field use.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Advanced digital mode or APRS user

    Its native support for APRS and modern features makes it far superior for digital operations.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Dedicated 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

Y23UV-98PLUSSpecYaesu FTA550
$96.85
Price
$229.96
70
Overall Score
33
2.1× difference
10.00W
TX Power (High)
1024
Memory Channels
200
5.0× difference
2400 mAh
Battery
TFT Color
Display
LCD
Not Found
FCC Authorization
Authorized
Standard
color
Black
Standard
Color
Black
7.38 Volts
Voltage
3 Volts
Y23UV-98PLUS
Model Number
NATAL-MR-PN-8748692
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
Two Way Radios, 2 AA batteries
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Frequency Range
108 to 136.975 MHz
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Compatible Devices
[Inferred: Devices using the same frequency band and compatible accessories]
1024 Chlannels, AM FM SSB R Eeception, Adjustable Receiver Sensitivity, Cross Band Repeater, GPS/APRS
Additional Features
Portable,Waterproof
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant
1.26"D x 2.36"W x 12"H
Item Dimensions D x W x H
8.6"D x 6.3"W x 3.2"H

Made your choice?

Y23UV-98PLUSPICK

$96.85 on Amazon

Yaesu FTA550

$229.96 on Amazon

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