Yaesu FT-60R vs Yaesu VX-6R

The VX-6R is the better choice for most buyers, but the margin is slim.

Both radios share identical core specs: 5W output, no digital modes, and no GPS. The real difference is weight. The VX-6R weighs 270g versus the FT-60R's 370g, a significant 100g advantage that matters for all-day carry. Owners report equally positive experiences with both, with the VX-6R slightly favored at 4.6/5 versus 4.5/5 across comparable review volumes.

The tradeoff is price: the VX-6R costs 57 percent more at 330 dollars. If portability ranks high in your priorities and budget allows, the VX-6R's lighter weight justifies the premium. The FT-60R remains a solid option if you're price-sensitive and don't mind the extra heft, since the core capabilities and owner satisfaction are effectively matched.

Buy the FT-60R if you want decent performance at a lower price point and weight is no concern. Buy the VX-6R if you carry your handheld daily and prefer a compact, lighter radio worth the added cost.

Go with the VX-6R as the primary recommendation: owners report liking it, it's materially more portable, and the performance gap doesn't exist.