You cannot beat the audio from the Kenwood D74A! The Kenwood is also a TRI-BAND radio. Our 220 repeater is the busiest repeater in town. As far as using it with hot spots, there are plenty of TG's, Rooms and Reflectors where you can cross mode between D-Star, DMR and Fusion so that is a non-issue. 73' KA2BSM
I own the FT-3DR. My one BIG complaint, is the volume control! There is no master volume for both channels. Freaking annoying as all get out!! I can't do dual channel monitoring, as a daily driver with the FT-3DR, as it's business impacting. I.e. I walk into a client. Radio is screaming, on CHB. FT3 is on CHA. I reach down to turn it down, but radio is still screaming loud. I have to take the radio off of my hip. Press the A/B button to switch to CHB. Then I can turn the volume down. So freaking annoying! Needs to have an option in the settings, to choose "global master volume" or "individual channel volume". Hope they add in a future firmware update? How does the Kenwood D74 Volume work? Because, that feature alone would probably be a deciding factor alone.
That's actually the least important part of the decision for me. I've never used either. It would help if I really cared about either D-STAR or Fusion/C4FM, because I could use that to help make the decision. The Yaesu looks way better, and it's cheaper, but the Kenwood has 1.25m, practical HF reception capabilities (SSB/CW), and its TNC can be used by a computer for packet radio (particularly Winlink)! Hmm....
Dstar and Fusion sounds bad compared to FM. Only when signals are weak, you get some digital benefit (less noise). Besides it also depends on what you local repeaters use.
Own both (and many others beside, you can never own too many radios and I can't bear to part with some of them!) and like them both, although just getting to know the FT3DR. The FT3DR has a very solid feel to it and seems very robust, slightly more so than the TH-D74. Also, on my TH-D74 the battery has a very slight "give" on the main body whereas on the FT3DR the battery is very firmly held in place. The RX range on the FT3DR goes all the way up to almost 1GHZ whereas receive tops out at 524 MHz on the TH-D74. You can receive the HF bands on the FT3DR, I was listening last night, althought there's no SSB mode. Love the FT3DR's touch screen (just a color screen on the TH-D74, no touch screen function) but it lacks the audio shaping options the TH-D74 has. You can get the FT3DR for $440 while the TH-D74's best price seems to be $510 so it's a little on the pricey side compared to the FT3DR. Have to ask, what antennas were you using in the video on both handhelds? Now, with the IC-705 announcement, Icom has competitively priced "state-of-the-art" equipment in the station receiver (IC-8600) and station/mobile transceiver (IC-7300, IC-9700, IC-7610, IC-705) departments, it only lacks a new handheld to go head to head with the above two new radios (it''s IC-51 line is getting a little long in the tooth).
I just came back to this video. People complained the D74 was expensive at, what, $475? Now used ones go for twice that! The new Icom ID52 is $649 (and how can I forget the wonderful 9.25% sales tax I'd have to pay here in California?) but is crippled in comparison with the D74. I have an IC-705 but haven't tried it yet with D-Star because getting a D-Star ID isn't quick. I have the FT3. I'm happy enough with it that I don't feel the need to upgrade to the FT5, though I do like the rubber corners on the bottom of the FT5. Yaesu just replaced the case on mine, and were kind enough to do it under warranty, after the bottom plastic cracked from a 14" drop onto my kitchen floor. Glad you're enjoying your new home, Bob. 73 de Daryl. QTH San Jose, Peoples Republic of California.
As I am already invested into D-star with my first D-star radio the Kenwood D-74 ( The reason I went with the Kenwood is because it had true HF receive capabilities) . I had no prior experience with D-star, Fusion or DMR prior to my D74 Purchase But after using D-star I love it and I also now have the Icom 9700 (another D-star capable radio). So I am quite invested in D-star and now that Icom announced the IC-705 All Band All Mode QRP rig plus being also D-star capable on all bands with many of the same features and screen size as my 9700 and 7300 (The IC-705 will be my next rig as the many uses It will have is still adding up in my head and growing) I will be sticking with D-star for the far foreseeable future!!! Great video!!! Thanks Chris K4BBC
I still don't get the comparison between these 2. You can get something less expensive if you don't want Fusion or DSTAR, and if you want one of those, the other one won't work. Both are great radios, I just don't really get why so many people try to decide between them.
LOL! I agree, like Bob said, my Kenwood wife stays at home because I am afraid of breaking it. I first bought the FT-2 and like a new girlfriend I took her everywhere. I then bought the D-74 but she stays at home. I also just bought the FT-3 and I have to agree with Bob, the D-74 is a much better radio and I am still trying to get use to the FT-3 so I don't want to be too harsh, but I think I still like the FT-2 better. The screen is definitely bigger on the 2 than it is on the 3 and too me it's not really a color screen. I call it enhanced grey scale. I know the pictures that can be taken or received are in color but how many hams are going to use that feature. I probably am stupider than K6UDA because I have all THREE radios! Bill N3EDO.
I bit the bullet and bought a FT3D., because I just NEEDED to have another HT. As skeptical as I was when I first saw this radio, I have to admit that It is a stellar (and very "sexy") HT. I am surprised at how easy it is to program repeaters manually. It takes all of about two minutes to get one programmed. Really, I was up and running in a matter of minutes ... after the battery was charged with the charging cord that comes with the radio. That takes a while. Anyone who buys a FT3D would be well advised to buy a charging cradle (you can get lower cost alternatives on Amazon compared with the more highly priced Yaesu brand) and a mic.
I might have missed it in all the comments, but which one is the easiest to program; which one would be best to put in your car for a cross country trip; will either one allow you to set it and forget it for cross country trips? Thanks.
The battery life on the Kenwood is too short. I also like that the Yaesu is water resistant, an important feature in a HT radio if you plan on going in the woods. The Blue Tooth is possibly a good feature IF (and its a big if here) it connects to my SENA helmet comm and works well. So it looks like the Yaesu is the radio for me, unless ICOM has something in the pipeline for the holiday season...
The Yaesu wears a tight dress and like to go dancing. the Kenwood looks nice in shorts and a sweat shirt and she can cook. You date one and marry the other.
Hi Bob, I agree, the Kenwood is the better overall RADIO! The FT3 has the better display (though I like that the K has a full keyboard too!) Solution; the Kenwood/Yaesu mashup FT3D74 - it's blender time! Btw; 11:34 ick! Please don't lick the radio gear... kiss fine, but I'd rather not have to down half a bottle of tums. Thank you for the side by side! 73 John
OK BOB! You just cost me more $$$$. First the KX3, now the TH-D74. Working through the manual. Don Arnold's videos are a huge help. Thanks to you and Cal PERS. Cheers, Jeff, KK6CUG
It seems the D74 sounds better , but I’m having trouble figuring out if the D74 is the better receiver or if it simply has the best speaker. I’d love to see a Sherwood like comparison of the two radios. I’m guessing the kenwood will come out on top.
@Chris Bone I do too, but I just ordered the XIEGU G90. It'll do 20 watts, has a built-in tuner, and is $439.99 at 'Radioddity.com.' Of course I may end-up with the 705 too, depending on the price. You should check-out the reviews on the G90 at www.eham.net/reviews/detail/14255?page=1
I think overall this is a great review. My issue with the FT3D is if you need to really go through the menus or use a APRS messaging the touchscreen really lacks a good user experience.
Great Video. I have a technician license. I'm coming back to radio after a 20 year hiatus. Still a noob. I want something nice but not too costly. I have an amazon gift card for a few bucks so that'll help. All I wanted was a dual band but the extra features on these two are great. No clear winner ... Thanks for the review!
Bro your talking about spending all your money on radios im thinking of booth these and your landscaping in the background prob cost more than my house 4 miles outside detroit. Im looking to get into it really bad, how hard is it to get a ham licence can i talk on 1 without it for a while to get a feel for it?
220 is very seldom used, though it should continue. I like the Yaesu. I live in the Philippines where it's impossible to get one for less than $1500. Can anyone help? Find a shipping option?
Right now, my dilemma is Kenwood or wait for the Icom that is just being sold. I am in line for one. I have a Kenwood TH 22 AT that is 20 years old and still works great. Having. 7300 and a 9700 in my shack, and love them both, I think I may just go Icom. Decisions decisions. Thanks for the review. 73.
For one thing it has a built-in tnc so you can run packet through either USB or bluetooth. This is something the yaesu can't do. Also because of the Bluetooth you can use the tnc under kiss protocol with APRS droid (think built in mobilinkd) . That means a larger screen, maps, and easy messaging.
Two years later the price on the Kenwood has gone up $200. I love mine except for the short battery life. I do love the record function for working Satellites. I record the contacts then can go back and log them. DStar is great for talking around the world with the 74. I don't own the Yaesu handitalkie so I can't talk about it. Thanks for the videos. 73 de KE5ES
Sadly, finances dictate that I buy a Baofeng, Rivitis, or Radio Oddity. Right now, all I have is a scanner. But it is an extremely nice scanner. It is 100 kilocycles to 2.1 gigacycles with no gaps, all modes, dual monitor, with close call. It is attached to the yagi television antenna on the roof. I may not be able to transmit. But I can listen to everything.
I got the FT3. Very happy with it. Hands down the best HT I have ever had. Works like a charm, easy to program, display is great. CW or SSB on 40 isn't real useful on a HT. Rick KB3NG.
Thanks for the video I was looking into both the 74 and ft2d. But got interested in the ft3. Battery life is huge to me because I’m out backpacking a lot so the ft3 it is for me.
forgetyourlife not going to be on digital. Mainly analog and use APRS. Currently I have a Yaesu VX6R and the battery life is amazing. I always hike with 2 batteries. When I get the ft3 I’ll have 2 batteries also
27.5"!!! Good grief that's long. 😁. I was freaked out by the stock 7" jabbing into my side. Can't imagine increasing that frustration. I went the opposite and ordered the MFJ-1713S 5" at $16.95 and a MFJ-1719S 1" at $18.95. Waiting for them to arrive from Gigaparts.
When the Yaesu price comes down,i will buy it ,my EDC radios are currently the FT 1 and the D74 ,so i will upgrade to the FT 3 and gain some features ,i skipped the FT 2 because the screen sucks, but being able to use the same accesories from FT 1 makes the FT 3 a no brainer .i only buy color screens these days ,i have a brand new icom IC 92 A and all its accesories in the closet ,i got burned on it because the low resolution screen and cataracts dont mix well ,the IC 7000 was my last Icom till they improve there displays to color. I have bought like 6 Kenwood's and Yaesus ,since the 7000,Icom has not put out a premium radio in years .displays suck and the whole optional parts required to install thing has ran the premium out of them.
Great Vid. I'm thinking about both of these models myself for future purchase. Question... when it comes to ONLY the APRS functionality, and 2-way messaging, etc. is there a clear winner? I thought I'd heard/read somewhere that Yaesu's APRS feature-set isn't as .... capable..or feature-rich as Kenwoods? [I'm obviously not sure of what I'm talking about, hence the question]. Put another way, if what I wanted was the 'best' all-in-one APRS HT, would I rather have the Kenwood or the Yaesu?
I ordered the Yaesu FT3 before watching this. I’m satisfied with my decision. Good review. Strange, but good. The licking the radio put it over the top.
Is it worth considering how the HT radios interact with mobile aand base radios? Do their mobile radios offer important advantages or work well together?
Great question. The FT3 and FTM400 mobile function alike. kinda like moving from an iPhone to a iMac. Beyond that its pretty much a toss up unless you want to maintain the same digital mode across your mobile and HT platforms.
Was looking at both. Leaning towards Kenwood. Just saw video on the Icom 705. Looks like a portable 7300. Not exactly a handheld though. Right now I just do HF and enjoying making DX contacts. Yet to ever use a local repeater. Waited for my General to start getting into ham radio.
I hate the massive bezels on the TH-D74, such a waste of display space. The FT3 goes right to the edge. I was going to get the FT3, but have decided to not purchase it - where I live in Kenya, there is zero activity on 2/70 so it would be a waste. I could see the purchase of a new HT for me here in East Africa would be used as an expensive glorified WFM broadcast receiver only. I have decided to rather put that money into buying the new IC-705 HF/6/2/70 all mode handy SDR rig. Heck, I could even use the IC-705 on VHF/UHF as an HT with a rubber duck :)
Hi l have enjoyed your videos l myself have been off the radio for over 35 year OMG what a shock l had getting back on to find out all these new modes but thanks you to yourself and other l am now more informed (oh yes l have now bought a id-52 plus 2) regards allan G6TMO UK
If you were a beginner looking to take one with you on remote mountain bike rides, would you pick the FT3 for extra battery life of the Kenwood for the extra frequency? Looking for a worst case scenario radio
I own both and would take the FT3DR on any outdoor excursion. The TH-D74 just feels too fragile, so I just keep it indoors. Oh, and battery life? The FT3DR works all day and the TH-D74 uses juice like it's a heroin addict. It's so bad you might just throw it off your mountain.
I have a vx-8 in New condition. It does 144 220 440. There are no digital modes or GPS. I may order the ft3 because of all the new things to learn and the nice styling. Neither radio does ssb or cw. I couldn't live with the screen on the ft2 I had.
I haven't read all the comments so maybe someone else has mentioned this. The FT2 & 3 are both capable of becoming WiresX nodes replacing the HRI 200. The FT2 needs a firmware update but I believe the FT3 is already updated.
James Kunkle yes the FT3 is PDN ready out if the box. I've tried the PDN thing, personally, I don't see what the big deal is. I don't see myself sitting in front of the computer screen to see all the info and talk on the radio. Kinda like all these hot spots with screens, the same info pops up on the radio screen, so what's the point?
@@K6UDA I bought FT3 as although FT2 I have had it, I am also bought Alinco DJ-MD5(CHEAP and love the brand "Alinco") ..... but I really want to collect a TH-D74. hahaha
Hi Bob, I appreciated the work you put in to generate these reviews! I have a Kenwood D74, but notice they now have a D74A. Do you know the difference between the two? Thanks!
Got my first TH-D74 a couple of days ago. Dead on day 2 :/ If you are considering buying one, first be sure to Google 'TH-D74 wont switch on'. I was horrified to learn how common issues are with this HT dying in a matter of days and its mostly related to a failed/ flawed charging chip 😕
There's such a thing as too small. Where's the battery? I really liked my old Icom 32AT and Icom 2GAT that could run for 4 days on one battery charge and was big enough to hold.
@@K6UDA thank you so much, I started to look at the Icon ID-51A plus. Seems like an awesome radio and the price has come way down $329 until the 31st of March. It's going to be a coin toss at this point. I get that they are different and close to the same price.
@@K6UDA -- thanks for the quick reply. I really like the feature set of the Yaesu and I feel that I wouldn't need to buy another handheld for sometime. Especially like the battery life. Side note... Never can one have to many beautiful women (gratuitous of course) in one's videos. My opinion... Cheers! New sub, by the way.
Could use SSB receive in conjuction with a SSB transmit capable radio (FT817 etc...) to work SSB satellites in full duplex. But that is kind of a niche within a niche.
Yeasu FT3 appears to be a better all around radio with a more useful mode of C4FM and Wires-x within the radio, plus access to YSF and FCS and DMR though a hot spot. The d74 has DSTAR but cannot do cross modes with a hot spot. Mike N6IMY
I’m sure there’s a video out there somewhere, but I can’t find one. Could you do a of hooking up the 74 to a computer/laptop and do some winlink? The full TNC has my vote. Now if someone could make a radio with full tnc and was completely waterproof I’d be all over it
Dang it, you left me sitting on the fence. Primary planned use would be APRS and APRS messages while activating for SOTA. Which 1 is easier for that?? Malen VE6VID
I WENT on EHAM and read all the reviews on the FT3 - I pass for now - till they get it ?? better. I did buy the TH-D74 and really like it - W6GPS does a good job of setup. This is a repeat ? SEPT 1st yes. Our club has a DSTAR RPTR - have heard NOTTA on it yet?? why? So buy a HOTSPOT3
Does the Yaesu display a compass ? I appreciate your help. I know u r not a handheld salesman so ur time is kindness. There is a weight difference between the two units, is that noticable in hand ? I heard a report that the Kenwood is not very robust and is more akin to a precision instrument, is this true ? Again, thank you very much for the help you have already given and hopefully the help you will give. I wont ask you anymore questions cuz that would be rude. Enjoy your day 👍🏻
Hello Bob I would like to know with the yaesu FT-3D How the Bluetooth works in others words if I paired the Bluetooth to my motorcycle headset Sena 20s evo How the ptt works and the microphone on the helmet will work also ? Or it’s just audio received are Bluetooth. Thanks in advance for the answers and keep up the good reviews and videos
I'm glad you made this! I've had this exact question on my mind for months. I'm still torn. I like the answer of "both". If only.
The D74 allows to listen to anything on the spectrum, which makes it a clear winner.
You cannot beat the audio from the Kenwood D74A!
The Kenwood is also a TRI-BAND radio. Our 220 repeater is the busiest repeater in town.
As far as using it with hot spots, there are plenty of TG's, Rooms and Reflectors where you can
cross mode between D-Star, DMR and Fusion so that is a non-issue.
73' KA2BSM
I own the FT-3DR. My one BIG complaint, is the volume control! There is no master volume for both channels. Freaking annoying as all get out!! I can't do dual channel monitoring, as a daily driver with the FT-3DR, as it's business impacting. I.e. I walk into a client. Radio is screaming, on CHB. FT3 is on CHA. I reach down to turn it down, but radio is still screaming loud. I have to take the radio off of my hip. Press the A/B button to switch to CHB. Then I can turn the volume down. So freaking annoying! Needs to have an option in the settings, to choose "global master volume" or "individual channel volume". Hope they add in a future firmware update? How does the Kenwood D74 Volume work? Because, that feature alone would probably be a deciding factor alone.
It boils down to this, do you want D-STAR or FUSION. The IC-705 was presented on ham college Friday evening. It has D-STAR. I have the D74.
That's actually the least important part of the decision for me. I've never used either. It would help if I really cared about either D-STAR or Fusion/C4FM, because I could use that to help make the decision. The Yaesu looks way better, and it's cheaper, but the Kenwood has 1.25m, practical HF reception capabilities (SSB/CW), and its TNC can be used by a computer for packet radio (particularly Winlink)! Hmm....
Dstar and Fusion sounds bad compared to FM. Only when signals are weak, you get some digital benefit (less noise). Besides it also depends on what you local repeaters use.
The Icom IC-705 is also on the HRO website as a prebuy. The specifications are there as well. I like the concept.
Own both (and many others beside, you can never own too many radios and I can't bear to part with some of them!) and like them both, although just getting to know the FT3DR. The FT3DR has a very solid feel to it and seems very robust, slightly more so than the TH-D74. Also, on my TH-D74 the battery has a very slight "give" on the main body whereas on the FT3DR the battery is very firmly held in place.
The RX range on the FT3DR goes all the way up to almost 1GHZ whereas receive tops out at 524 MHz on the TH-D74. You can receive the HF bands on the FT3DR, I was listening last night, althought there's no SSB mode. Love the FT3DR's touch screen (just a color screen on the TH-D74, no touch screen function) but it lacks the audio shaping options the TH-D74 has.
You can get the FT3DR for $440 while the TH-D74's best price seems to be $510 so it's a little on the pricey side compared to the FT3DR.
Have to ask, what antennas were you using in the video on both handhelds?
Now, with the IC-705 announcement, Icom has competitively priced "state-of-the-art" equipment in the station receiver (IC-8600) and station/mobile transceiver (IC-7300, IC-9700, IC-7610, IC-705) departments, it only lacks a new handheld to go head to head with the above two new radios (it''s IC-51 line is getting a little long in the tooth).
Nice analysis. I'm using Nagoya 701 antennas on both radios.
I just came back to this video. People complained the D74 was expensive at, what, $475? Now used ones go for twice that! The new Icom ID52 is $649 (and how can I forget the wonderful 9.25% sales tax I'd have to pay here in California?) but is crippled in comparison with the D74. I have an IC-705 but haven't tried it yet with D-Star because getting a D-Star ID isn't quick.
I have the FT3. I'm happy enough with it that I don't feel the need to upgrade to the FT5, though I do like the rubber corners on the bottom of the FT5. Yaesu just replaced the case on mine, and were kind enough to do it under warranty, after the bottom plastic cracked from a 14" drop onto my kitchen floor.
Glad you're enjoying your new home, Bob. 73 de Daryl. QTH San Jose, Peoples Republic of California.
As I am already invested into D-star with my first D-star radio the Kenwood D-74 ( The reason I went with the Kenwood is because it had true HF receive capabilities) . I had no prior experience with D-star, Fusion or DMR prior to my D74 Purchase But after using D-star I love it and I also now have the Icom 9700 (another D-star capable radio). So I am quite invested in D-star and now that Icom announced the IC-705 All Band All Mode QRP rig plus being also D-star capable on all bands with many of the same features and screen size as my 9700 and 7300 (The IC-705 will be my next rig as the many uses It will have is still adding up in my head and growing) I will be sticking with D-star for the far foreseeable future!!! Great video!!! Thanks Chris K4BBC
I checked repeaters in my state and came up with 38 Fusion and 39 D-Star. However, D-star is 16 miles away, while Fusion is 30+.
Get a hotspot. You're welcome.
great comparison....What antenna are you using on the ft3?
I did change the brightness setting of the screen and turned gps off when I first turned the radio on.
Which one weighs more? When walking the trail and carrying a radio, less weight is preferred.
FT3 10.4 oz D74 12.3 oz
I still don't get the comparison between these 2. You can get something less expensive if you don't want Fusion or DSTAR, and if you want one of those, the other one won't work. Both are great radios, I just don't really get why so many people try to decide between them.
I too have a Kenwood Wife & My Yaesu Girlfriend i feel very lucky and they live together in harmony.
LOL! I agree, like Bob said, my Kenwood wife stays at home because I am afraid of breaking it. I first bought the FT-2 and like a new girlfriend I took her everywhere. I then bought the D-74 but she stays at home. I also just bought the FT-3 and I have to agree with Bob, the D-74 is a much better radio and I am still trying to get use to the FT-3 so I don't want to be too harsh, but I think I still like the FT-2 better. The screen is definitely bigger on the 2 than it is on the 3 and too me it's not really a color screen. I call it enhanced grey scale. I know the pictures that can be taken or received are in color but how many hams are going to use that feature. I probably am stupider than K6UDA because I have all THREE radios! Bill N3EDO.
I bit the bullet and bought a FT3D., because I just NEEDED to have another HT. As skeptical as I was when I first saw this radio, I have to admit that It is a stellar (and very "sexy") HT. I am surprised at how easy it is to program repeaters manually. It takes all of about two minutes to get one programmed. Really, I was up and running in a matter of minutes ... after the battery was charged with the charging cord that comes with the radio. That takes a while. Anyone who buys a FT3D would be well advised to buy a charging cradle (you can get lower cost alternatives on Amazon compared with the more highly priced Yaesu brand) and a mic.
I might have missed it in all the comments, but which one is the easiest to program; which one would be best to put in your car for a cross country trip; will either one allow you to set it and forget it for cross country trips? Thanks.
Aren’t people having to send back the thd74s due to fuses blowing or something similar from over charging?
The battery life on the Kenwood is too short. I also like that the Yaesu is water resistant, an important feature in a HT radio if you plan on going in the woods. The Blue Tooth is possibly a good feature IF (and its a big if here) it connects to my SENA helmet comm and works well. So it looks like the Yaesu is the radio for me, unless ICOM has something in the pipeline for the holiday season...
It connects. I am using it
Goran Skular Are you using the VOX feature or PTT? More details please. Where do you put the Radio on the bike? Is it wired into the bike? Etc.
The Kenwood is holding it's price the ft3d is now $349
Since Kenwood took the D74 off the market back in December 2020, I had to purchase mine off of eBay. Looking forward to playing with it.
The Yaesu wears a tight dress and like to go dancing. the Kenwood looks nice in shorts and a sweat shirt and she can cook. You date one and marry the other.
I agree.
Same for the IC-7300 and the FT-991a. Brilliant comment 💯
Um, meaning?
What antenna is that on the Kenwood?
Hi Bob, I agree, the Kenwood is the better overall RADIO! The FT3 has the better display (though I like that the K has a full keyboard too!)
Solution; the Kenwood/Yaesu mashup FT3D74 - it's blender time!
Btw; 11:34 ick! Please don't lick the radio gear... kiss fine, but I'd rather not have to down half a bottle of tums.
Thank you for the side by side!
73 John
OK BOB! You just cost me more $$$$. First the KX3, now the TH-D74. Working through the manual. Don Arnold's videos are a huge help. Thanks to you and Cal PERS. Cheers, Jeff, KK6CUG
Awesome.
The usability of the GPS info on the Kenwood is scoring major points.
It seems the D74 sounds better , but I’m having trouble figuring out if the D74 is the better receiver or if it simply has the best speaker. I’d love to see a Sherwood like comparison of the two radios. I’m guessing the kenwood will come out on top.
Tnks you for speaken slowly english. I'm French in Spain and i appreciate all your Videos.
It's the icom ic-705. Just announced in Tokyo
@Chris Bone I do too, but I just ordered the XIEGU G90. It'll do 20 watts, has a built-in tuner, and is $439.99 at 'Radioddity.com.' Of course I may end-up with the 705 too, depending on the price. You should check-out the reviews on the G90 at www.eham.net/reviews/detail/14255?page=1
I think overall this is a great review. My issue with the FT3D is if you need to really go through the menus or use a APRS messaging the touchscreen really lacks a good user experience.
I give a thumbs up before the video starts. I have that level of confidence in your work.
You rock dude. Thanks.
Great Video. I have a technician license. I'm coming back to radio after a 20 year hiatus. Still a noob. I want something nice but not too costly. I have an amazon gift card for a few bucks so that'll help. All I wanted was a dual band but the extra features on these two are great. No clear winner ... Thanks for the review!
I had no idea the Kenwood could receive HF. However that FT3 would be such an addition to my FTM-400.
Perfect companion radio. I agree.
Just missed you the other day on Wires. I’ll try you again after this storm blows by this week. de N4EJM
Bro your talking about spending all your money on radios im thinking of booth these and your landscaping in the background prob cost more than my house 4 miles outside detroit. Im looking to get into it really bad, how hard is it to get a ham licence can i talk on 1 without it for a while to get a feel for it?
I received my D74 Saturday. Excellent quality. Impressive radio. Still studying for my license.
Did you do a cost comparison? That would be a factor also .
When I made the video they were very comparable in price. Now you can get the FT3 for a song while the D74 has become a unicorn.
You convinced me, The Kenwood. It has held its value longer, it has more capabilities. Has excellent track record
220 is very seldom used, though it should continue. I like the Yaesu. I live in the Philippines where it's impossible to get one for less than $1500. Can anyone help? Find a shipping option?
i pick both! because d-star is stand alone and ysf with a hot spot can access all other digital modes.
Right now, my dilemma is Kenwood or wait for the Icom that is just being sold. I am in line for one. I have a Kenwood TH 22 AT that is 20 years old and still works great. Having. 7300 and a 9700 in my shack, and love them both, I think I may just go Icom. Decisions decisions. Thanks for the review. 73.
Personally I think the Kenwood packs more punch.
Can I ask why?
For one thing it has a built-in tnc so you can run packet through either USB or bluetooth. This is something the yaesu can't do. Also because of the Bluetooth you can use the tnc under kiss protocol with APRS droid (think built in mobilinkd) . That means a larger screen, maps, and easy messaging.
Why is the D74 not available, anymore?
Two years later the price on the Kenwood has gone up $200. I love mine except for the short battery life. I do love the record function for working Satellites. I record the contacts then can go back and log them. DStar is great for talking around the world with the 74. I don't own the Yaesu handitalkie so I can't talk about it. Thanks for the videos. 73 de KE5ES
My Kenwood TH-D74 arrived today. I'll chime in when I get it figured out.
I’ve had this question myself but decided to go with the Yaesu because C4fm is what is used in my area and there are no D-Star repeaters near me.
Sadly, finances dictate that I buy a Baofeng, Rivitis, or Radio Oddity. Right now, all I have is a scanner. But it is an extremely nice scanner. It is 100 kilocycles to 2.1 gigacycles with no gaps, all modes, dual monitor, with close call. It is attached to the yagi television antenna on the roof. I may not be able to transmit. But I can listen to everything.
I got the FT3. Very happy with it. Hands down the best HT I have ever had. Works like a charm, easy to program, display is great. CW or SSB on 40 isn't real useful on a HT. Rick KB3NG.
Good vid but I must have missed it... Why are you in 100 degrees again? For US?
Because I live in Kalifornia. Thats the real reason.
Thank you for the look. I have been looking at both radios. Hard choice.
And my choice is...............both! Thanks for a great and...humorous review.
Thanks for the video I was looking into both the 74 and ft2d. But got interested in the ft3. Battery life is huge to me because I’m out backpacking a lot so the ft3 it is for me.
Hotfootedhiker Adventures if battery is king don’t backpack with a digital radio at all. They all suck more juice.
forgetyourlife not going to be on digital. Mainly analog and use APRS. Currently I have a Yaesu VX6R and the battery life is amazing. I always hike with 2 batteries. When I get the ft3 I’ll have 2 batteries also
5 minutes into the video and he’s still rambling.
If he didn't like to talk, he would not be a ham. Lol
I have the FT-3DR. Which antenna would you suggest. I purchased the Diamond SRH770S, but is there a better choice?
I prefer the signal stick
I put Nagoya NA-701's on both my radios. Short, flexible and no bent memory.
27.5"!!! Good grief that's long. 😁. I was freaked out by the stock 7" jabbing into my side. Can't imagine increasing that frustration. I went the opposite and ordered the MFJ-1713S 5" at $16.95 and a MFJ-1719S 1" at $18.95. Waiting for them to arrive from Gigaparts.
Jeff Rose I am new to ham. Who is the manufacturer? What is the model number? Thanks.
@@K6UDA What SMA extension are you using on the FT3d so the NA-701 fits next to the GPS bump?
When the Yaesu price comes down,i will buy it ,my EDC radios are currently the FT 1 and the D74 ,so i will upgrade to the FT 3 and gain some features ,i skipped the FT 2 because the screen sucks, but being able to use the same accesories from FT 1 makes the FT 3 a no brainer .i only buy color screens these days ,i have a brand new icom IC 92 A and all its accesories in the closet ,i got burned on it because the low resolution screen and cataracts dont mix well ,the IC 7000 was my last Icom till they improve there displays to color. I have bought like 6 Kenwood's and Yaesus ,since the 7000,Icom has not put out a premium radio in years .displays suck and the whole optional parts required to install thing has ran the premium out of them.
Do you think Icom with upgrade the 51A with a color screen? Probably right after I buy a 51A.
Great Vid. I'm thinking about both of these models myself for future purchase. Question... when it comes to ONLY the APRS functionality, and 2-way messaging, etc. is there a clear winner? I thought I'd heard/read somewhere that Yaesu's APRS feature-set isn't as .... capable..or feature-rich as Kenwoods? [I'm obviously not sure of what I'm talking about, hence the question]. Put another way, if what I wanted was the 'best' all-in-one APRS HT, would I rather have the Kenwood or the Yaesu?
I ordered the Yaesu FT3 before watching this. I’m satisfied with my decision. Good review. Strange, but good. The licking the radio put it over the top.
The decision depends on what repeaters you have in your area. If you have fusion repeaters, get the FT3D. If you have D-Star repeaters, get the D74.
Is it worth considering how the HT radios interact with mobile aand base radios? Do their mobile radios offer important advantages or work well together?
Great question. The FT3 and FTM400 mobile function alike. kinda like moving from an iPhone to a iMac. Beyond that its pretty much a toss up unless you want to maintain the same digital mode across your mobile and HT platforms.
Was looking at both. Leaning towards Kenwood. Just saw video on the Icom 705. Looks like a portable 7300. Not exactly a handheld though. Right now I just do HF and enjoying making DX contacts. Yet to ever use a local repeater. Waited for my General to start getting into ham radio.
Kind of curious how that Nagoya works on your HT
I hate the massive bezels on the TH-D74, such a waste of display space. The FT3 goes right to the edge. I was going to get the FT3, but have decided to not purchase it - where I live in Kenya, there is zero activity on 2/70 so it would be a waste. I could see the purchase of a new HT for me here in East Africa would be used as an expensive glorified WFM broadcast receiver only. I have decided to rather put that money into buying the new IC-705 HF/6/2/70 all mode handy SDR rig. Heck, I could even use the IC-705 on VHF/UHF as an HT with a rubber duck :)
Hi l have enjoyed your videos l myself have been off the radio for over 35 year OMG what a shock l had getting back on to find out all these new modes but thanks you to yourself and other l am now more informed (oh yes l have now bought a id-52 plus 2)
regards
allan G6TMO UK
What was the new ICOM radio? The 705?
Yep.
spending money on expensive products/radios is never a waste at all, you get reliable high quality & performance
If you were a beginner looking to take one with you on remote mountain bike rides, would you pick the FT3 for extra battery life of the Kenwood for the extra frequency? Looking for a worst case scenario radio
I own both and would take the FT3DR on any outdoor excursion. The TH-D74 just feels too fragile, so I just keep it indoors. Oh, and battery life? The FT3DR works all day and the TH-D74 uses juice like it's a heroin addict. It's so bad you might just throw it off your mountain.
Bob, thanks for the video. I'm right at this buyer's junction right now. Any chance you could compare the FT3 against the Icom ID-51a? Thanks again!
Attention radio manufactures these videos influence my purchase. Might get both. Love your work thanks.
With the Kenwood no longer available, and the FT3D having dropped in price, it seems like the decision today is an easy one.
Very good review are the antennas stock or after market and where did you get them
Hey do you know where to get the Kenwood new still? I do really like the Yaesu and it has a band scope!
I have a vx-8 in New condition. It does 144 220 440. There are no digital modes or GPS. I may order the ft3 because of all the new things to learn and the nice styling. Neither radio does ssb or cw. I couldn't live with the screen on the ft2 I had.
I am totally blind and was wondering if either one of these radios 📻 has a voice on them that would help me with the menu’s? Thanks
I believe both have imbedded speech.
I think the Keenwood looks sleeker. If only looks mattered, I would like the keenwood in a smaller size. It just looks cooler and more professional.
I haven't read all the comments so maybe someone else has mentioned this. The FT2 & 3 are both capable of becoming WiresX nodes replacing the HRI 200. The FT2 needs a firmware update but I believe the FT3 is already updated.
James Kunkle yes the FT3 is PDN ready out if the box. I've tried the PDN thing, personally, I don't see what the big deal is. I don't see myself sitting in front of the computer screen to see all the info and talk on the radio. Kinda like all these hot spots with screens, the same info pops up on the radio screen, so what's the point?
Could I KNOW THE BATTERY LIVE COMPARISON OF THESE 2 RIGS?
BU2AH革命 my tests. D74 5-7 hrs. FT3 11-13 hrs
@@K6UDA I bought FT3 as although FT2 I have had it, I am also bought Alinco DJ-MD5(CHEAP and love the brand "Alinco") ..... but I really want to collect a TH-D74. hahaha
what is your favorite antenna to pair with the ft3?
BOB,you are one of the best.Love your shows,too.Thank you for your presentations. Best Wishes.
Thanks. Look for new videos to drop in a few weeks.
Hi Bob, I appreciated the work you put in to generate these reviews! I have a Kenwood D74, but notice they now have a D74A. Do you know the difference between the two? Thanks!
If you live in the America’s you most likely have an A model.
Got it... and the E version is for European!
Got my first TH-D74 a couple of days ago. Dead on day 2 :/ If you are considering buying one, first be sure to Google 'TH-D74 wont switch on'.
I was horrified to learn how common issues are with this HT dying in a matter of days and its mostly related to a failed/ flawed charging chip 😕
There's such a thing as too small. Where's the battery? I really liked my old Icom 32AT and Icom 2GAT that could run for 4 days on one battery charge and was big enough to hold.
I have a new question that is if you know if the FT3 shows altitude on the GPS?
Yes it does
@@K6UDA thank you so much, I started to look at the Icon ID-51A plus. Seems like an awesome radio and the price has come way down $329 until the 31st of March. It's going to be a coin toss at this point. I get that they are different and close to the same price.
What's the 411 on a ICom, is it that mobile unit with backpack option? Or a handheld?
It’s a qrp ( low power) HF VHF UHF multimode transceiver.
the ft3 can be used as a node for wires X but you know that now as of 3 25 20
Still new to this... is SSB important for a handheld? Thanks for the video....
It’s fun but not important.
@@K6UDA -- thanks for the quick reply. I really like the feature set of the Yaesu and I feel that I wouldn't need to buy another handheld for sometime. Especially like the battery life. Side note... Never can one have to many beautiful women (gratuitous of course) in one's videos. My opinion... Cheers! New sub, by the way.
Could use SSB receive in conjuction with a SSB transmit capable radio (FT817 etc...) to work SSB satellites in full duplex. But that is kind of a niche within a niche.
What antenna are you using on those ? 73 de HB9GVJ
What brand and model of antenna you used on the FT3D? How does it perform?
Hi Bob, what antenna are you using on the Yaesu FT3? I find a few don't fit with the "bulge" of the GP. Thanks
The other headset manufacturer are holding Kenwood back because they still haven't matched the D74 feature for feature
I can tell I'm going to fall deep down this rabbit hole
It’s almost bottomless.
Yeasu FT3 appears to be a better all around radio with a more useful mode of C4FM and Wires-x within the radio, plus access to YSF and FCS and DMR though a hot spot.
The d74 has DSTAR but cannot do cross modes with a hot spot.
Mike N6IMY
Your absolutely correct but as you can see, thats' not all these radios excel at.
Getting ready to buy later this coming week. Had to watch this again.
Thanks! Studying for my Technician license, researching rails and and have been asking myself this same question.Thanks again!
I’m sure there’s a video out there somewhere, but I can’t find one. Could you do a of hooking up the 74 to a computer/laptop and do some winlink? The full TNC has my vote. Now if someone could make a radio with full tnc and was completely waterproof I’d be all over it
To be perfectly honest, I've never played with Winlink.
Dang it, you left me sitting on the fence. Primary planned use would be APRS and APRS messages while activating for SOTA. Which 1 is easier for that?? Malen VE6VID
I got the D74 at Pacificon. I love it but it's gonna take me a year to learn how to use it.
Kindly suggest a HAM Radio of 11° (Eleven Degrees)
One small aside, aircraft band is blocked on the D74, but everything else is open. Great video, the clear choice is...both. 73
I’ve got aircraft frequencies programmed into mine.
That's 2 things the D74 doesn't do : no aircraft band, and stops at 470mhz.
@@panflute007 actually I was wrong, the D74 does receive aircraft band, but only on the B band of the radio.
I WENT on EHAM and read all the reviews on the FT3 - I pass for now - till they get it ?? better. I did buy the TH-D74 and really like it - W6GPS does a good job of setup. This is a repeat ? SEPT 1st yes. Our club has a DSTAR RPTR - have heard NOTTA on it yet?? why? So buy a HOTSPOT3
Did I see that screen right, does the Kenwood display a compass on screen ?
Yep, The Kenwood displays a compass on the front screen.
Does the Yaesu display a compass ?
I appreciate your help. I know u r not a handheld salesman so ur time is kindness.
There is a weight difference between the two units, is that noticable in hand ?
I heard a report that the Kenwood is not very robust and is more akin to a precision instrument, is this true ?
Again, thank you very much for the help you have already given and hopefully the help you will give. I wont ask you anymore questions cuz that would be rude. Enjoy your day 👍🏻
Hello Bob I would like to know with the yaesu FT-3D How the Bluetooth works in others words if I paired the Bluetooth to my motorcycle headset
Sena 20s evo How the ptt works and the microphone on the helmet will work also ? Or it’s just audio received are Bluetooth.
Thanks in advance for the answers and keep up the good reviews and videos