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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Yaesu FT-891 vs Yaesu FTDX-10

Our pick

Yaesu FTDX-10$1699.95

The FTDX-10 is the winner if receiver performance matters to you. RadioRanked's receiver class shows the FTDX-10 at tier 5 versus the FT-891 at tier 3, a meaningful gap in a capability that defines HF operating conditions. Both transceivers deliver 100W across HF and 6m, and both earn strong owner ratings, though the FT-891 has more reviews to draw from. The FTDX-10 adds RTTY and PSK modes beyond the FT-891's SSB, CW, AM, and FM. The tradeoff is price and portability: the FTDX-10 costs more than double and weighs three times as much.

The receiver quality separation is the single most important differentiator here. On HF, receive performance directly impacts how well you hear stations in crowded or noisy conditions.

The FT-891 suits operators who prioritize affordability and compact size and can accept a mid-tier receiver. The FTDX-10 is for serious HF enthusiasts willing to pay for superior receiver performance and digital mode capability.

Go with the FTDX-10 if receiver performance is your priority. Choose the FT-891 if budget and portability take precedence.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Portable operators needing lightweight field use

    Its significantly lower weight makes it ideal for backpacking or vehicle installs.

    FT-891
  • Advanced DXers prioritizing receiver performance

    The superior receiver and built-in waterfall display enhance signal analysis greatly.

    FTDX-10
  • Budget-conscious buyer starting their HF journey

    It offers robust, full-power performance at a much more accessible price point.

    FT-891
  • Operators focusing on digital modes and advanced features

    The inclusion of RTTY and PSK modes, plus the ATU, adds immense capability.

    FTDX-10
  • CW operators needing reliable full power output

    It delivers excellent transmit power in a package designed for field operation.

    FT-891

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-891

  • 52% cheaper ($809.95 vs $1699.95)
  • 4000g lighter (1900g vs 5900g)

Reasons to choose Yaesu FTDX-10

  • Better receiver (100 vs 62 receiver score)
  • Has color TFT display
  • Has built-in antenna tuner
  • Has spectrum waterfall display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Yaesu FT-891SpecYaesu FTDX-10
$809.95
Price
$1699.95
68
Overall Score
78
+15% for winner
100.00W
TX Power (High)
100.00W
62
Receiver Score
100
+61% for winner
superhet
Receiver Architecture
hybrid-sdr
SSB, CW, AM, FM
Modes
SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY, PSK
HF, 6m
Bands
HF, 6m
No
Built-in Antenna Tuner
Yes
No
Spectrum Waterfall
Yes
99
Memory Channels
99
1900g
Weight
5900g
3.1× difference
Not required (Part 97 amateur)
FCC Authorization
Not required (Part 97 amateur)
Black
color
Black

Made your choice?

Yaesu FT-891

$809.95 on Amazon

Yaesu FTDX-10PICK

$1699.95 on Amazon

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