Yaesu
Yaesu FT-65R (Alt)
39Poor
A no-frills dual-band HT for new Technicians who need reliable VHF/UHF FM voice without digital-mode complexity.
Value
31
Features
19
Beginner
55
Portability
45
VHFUHF
5.00W
TX Power
950mAh
Battery
200
Channels
★★★★⯪4.4(37 reviews)
5 star
74%
4 star
12%
3 star
3%
2 star
8%
1 star
3%
Overview
The FT-65R is aimed squarely at newly licensed operators who want a dependable analog FM handheld for local repeater work, simplex contacts, and RACES or ARES check-ins. It is not trying to be an all-mode powerhouse, and buyers who approach it on those terms will be less disappointed.
The three selectable TX power levels (5W, 2.5W, and 0.5W) give you useful flexibility for battery conservation during long nets, and the 200-channel memory is more than sufficient for a regional repeater directory. The 1,950mAh Li-Ion pack and included 3.5-hour rapid charger are practical inclusions, and IP54-rated dust and water resistance adds a reasonable margin of durability for outdoor use. Dimensions of roughly 2.1 by 4.1 by 1.2 inches keep it pocketable.
Where the FT-65R struggles is on value grounds. At this price point, competing handhelds offer broader feature sets, and this radio scores poorly in both features and overall value. Operators who need APRS, DMR, or any digital voice mode should look elsewhere. For a new licensee who wants a straightforward, CHIRP-compatible FM-only HT from a name-brand manufacturer, it gets the job done.
Specifications
| Price | $129.90 |
| TX Power (High) | 5.00W |
| Memory Channels | 200 |
| Battery | 950 mAh |
| IP Rating | IP54 |
| FCC ID | K6620658X20 |
| Color | Clear,White |
| Item Weight | 1.3 Pounds |
| Frequency Range | 144-148 MHz (2M), 420-450 MHz (440) |
| Special Feature | Programmable |
| Product Dimensions | 1.2"D x 2.07"W x 4.1"H |
| Included Components | 1,950 mAh Li-Ion Battery pack, 3.5-Hour Rapid Charger |
| UPC | 702646181883 |
| Tuner Type | UHF, VHF |
| Model Number | FT 65 ft-65R |
| Built-In Media | 1,950 mAh Li-Ion Battery pack, 3.5-Hour Rapid Charger |
| Mfr Part Number | FT-65R |
| Waterproof Rating | IP54 and Mil 810 C/D/E |
| Compatible Devices | Two-way radios operating on 2M (144-148 MHz) and 440 (420-450 MHz) frequency bands and accessories such as the SSM-512B earpiece |
| Additional Features | Programmable |
| Battery Average Life | 10 Hours |
| Item Dimensions D x W x H | 1.2"D x 2.07"W x 4.1"H |
Key Features
- Dual-band VHF/UHF FM operation; no digital voice modes (DMR, C4FM, D-STAR)
- Three TX power levels: 5W high, 2.5W mid, 0.5W low
- 200 programmable memory channels
- IP54 dust and water resistance; MIL-810-C/D/E rated construction
- Compact form factor: 2.1 x 4.1 x 1.2 inches
- Four user-programmable function keys for operator-defined shortcuts
- 1,950mAh Li-Ion battery with 3.5-hour rapid charger included
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What Customers Say
★★★★★Great rugged basic high-quality ham dual-band HT!
In these days of $25 Chinese knock-off ham HTs is there even still a place for a high quality, simple, straight-forward dual-band radio? Yaesu obviously thinks "yes" and the FT-65 is a very strong argument in support. In a small box you get radio, antenna, belt-clip, 1900mah battery, and a quick-cha...
Gavin and Alice·Mar 27, 2017·Verified Purchase
★★★★★Quality!
I have not used it yet as I need to be certified first but I showed it to a good friend that is well versed in Ham Radios and he said I got myself a great quality radio.
nancy·Nov 24, 2025·Verified Purchase
★★★★★Yes it’s a buy
This radio is the best HT I bought. I have a few of the Chinese HT radios and I have to say the FT65 is awesome. I would suggest it be in a hams arsenal.
Kyle·Aug 20, 2025·Verified Purchase