FT-4XR Review

A quick review of the Yaesu FT-4XR and one of my recommendations for new Hams!

[@bruceforster3709]

I'm an Extra. My Wife is a Tech, and she wants to go no further. 3 Years ago, I bought an FT-4 as a Backup rig /something to trudge through the Bush with. When I'm out camping, or at a work site, I don't want to risk my VX-8. My wife's rig is a 13 Year Old FT-60, that is finally getting tired. I just listed the 60 on Craigslist at a bargain price, and for Christmas, the wife is getting an FT-65. I like the FT-65 SO MUCH, I'm going to buy TWO MORE OF THEM in the coming Months. I'll be building a Search & Rescue / CERT Go Bag around the two new radios.

[@rootonesixoffroad5721]

I think what you are doing is awesome. I try to follow all your pages. Very informative with content that is beneficial to those who are new or experiencd with HAM . This helps in the recruitment new HAM's. Great job!

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you, I appreciate your support!

[@davenovotny357]

Great video! Presenter makes the operation clear and easy

[@patrickd4699]

I am in. I am new to ham radio, just a babe, and started studying for my technicians license and researching what would make a good first radio. Just came across your channel and subscribed. I have 5 children, so time and money are precious commodities. I appreciate the short concise and to the point review.

[@michaelmurphy5834]

I purchased one of these for as a gift for a friend. I took an evening and played with (and programmed) the radio before giving it to him. It is a great rig. RX is very good and speaker audio is also plentiful. My only concern is that I could not find a way to change the TX audio (other than changing from narrow to wide). The TX audio is a bit lower (at least on that radio) then I would prefer. But again I really like the rig and will likely pick up one for myself. - Mike - KI8R

[@randywalker3099]

I am new ham ( Technician and studying for General ) and this radio, after hearing and watching this video would be a GREAT way to start out. Sometime, it all seems so overwhelming but this video was clear and easily understood. Thanks for the info !!!!

[@TheNewHam]

Welcome to the amateur radio community Randy and good luck on your General! It can be overwhelming and that's the very reason I started this channel, to help new Hams get the information and resources they need to fully enjoy the hobby.

[@ambhouse]

New Tech here. Found this radio at a ham fest (friend of silent key) for $60. Glad that an Elmer programmed our local area repeaters in for me! Now, to learn it for myself so that I can program for any travels, as well as maybe figure out simplex on it. Great overview. One note: It will monitor dual bands (?channels?) (as shown in another video, but I'm too new to be able to explain what I previously watched). KJ5EMZ

[@sgt_242]

I'm in! Thanks for the opportunity.

[@AC-nt1ph]

I'm in. I'm glad you compared it side by side to the baufeng for size.

[@JohnnyRigler]

I'm in. Looks like a great radio. I'd love to give it to a recently licensed ham buddy.

[@BigAl1344]

What a great video! Just passed my technician test three days ago and am heading to HamFest Orlando in hopes of learning a thing or two. Keep up the great work and I look forward to seeing more. I’m in!

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for taking time to visit my channel and I hope you have a safe trip to HamFest!

[@KyleMcC2017]

I’m in! I just found your videos and I am grateful to have found them👍🏽 this is Kyle, KI5DZU, 73 !

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching Kyle! Good luck with the drawing!

[@TipDryAgain]

I just tested and am in need of a good radio. Thanks for the great info! Looking forward to more good info in the future.

[@TheNewHam]

Congratulations and welcome to the amateur radio community. Thanks for the encouragement and thanks for viewing my video!

[@colbyseegmiller4869]

I’m in!! Thanks for taking time to review this radio. I’m taking the Tech exam in a couple of weeks with my 13 year old son (if he gets his studying in).

[@TheNewHam]

I hope you both pass with flying colors! Thanks for watching the video and welcome to the amateur radio community.

[@danielpenney9077]

A very thorough review, quick and to the point. You hit all the important stuff. Thanks. I'm in! 73 W1RXA

[@JayCottam]

Great Review...Taking Technician and General on Saturday. have not had my ticket since the early 80s and excited to get back into the Hams!

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you and we look forward to having you back in amateur radio Jay!

[@billwaggener6176]

Thanks for the video. I had bought the radio and was trying to figure out how to set the tone for repeater access using Yaesu's terrible manual. Your instructions were great. 73's, Bill

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching, glad I could help! 73

[@ryankeller4864]

I had a stepdad that got me interested in ham radio years back. I'm looking to actually get into it now. This is definitely going to be an option for me.

[@TheNewHam]

Ryan Keller Glad to hear that your interest has grown and we look forward to adding you to the amateur radio community! The FT-4XR is a great choice.

[@bravo158]

Thanks for a informative review I’ve been a CB owner since my teens and been looking for a good starter HAM radio and this radio looks like a great starter

[@ReformedPiper]

Just ordered mine yesterday! Hoping to take my tech test soon.

[@ascott701]

Good luck on your test! You’ll love the FT4.

[@izan3315]

Good Channel !!! Thanks for your work !!

[@leegroce2943]

Thank you for a good review of this radio. I have been considering it for a venture that I am planning to embark on and I will need a good, small radio. I wasn't aware that Yaesu provided programming software. 73

[@qzp3yj]

I'm in. Thanks for the great videos on this that are easy to understand. Not enough of that out there for newbies.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching Mike! Good luck with the drawing.

[@janiceemery2008]

Scott, thank you so very much for this review. I am new to ham radio and in the process of getting my license. I have also been watching Josh Nass and he placed this same ham on a beginners list. I have had my eye on this one and I think I may go ahead and buy it. I love the review you did on this it just confirmed what I was questioning. Thank you Scott. Jan

[@ascott701]

Hello Janice and thanks for watching. Good luck with getting your license!

[@erics.4536]

I’m in! Thanks for the review. Got my ticket a couple years ago but I’m definitely still a beginner in this hobby.

[@TheNewHam]

I'm a little over a year in now so I know how you feel. Thanks for watching my video!

[@miriamsmith7135]

Great video.. Just got a Yaesu FT 65R for the same price and it's a great radio and would make an excellent radio for the new ham also..

[@buzzard4570]

Looks like a nice entry level radio. Thanks for the review.

[@TheNewHam]

I really feel it's a great option and thanks for watching my video.

[@TheNewHam]

Colby Higgs is our winner!!! Congratulations Colby!

[@bullpup95]

Excellent review! Thank you for the contest!

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching Mike. I hope we can have some more contests in the future.

[@scribemike]

I don't want to be included in the drawing as I have a FT-4XR on the way to me now, but I just wanted to say thanks. This review and Ham Radio Crash Course's talked me into picking one up. I don't have my license yet, so I'll just be listening and studying the ARRL spiral book to prepare for the level 1 test, but I sure am excited about it. Thanks again.

[@TheNewHam]

Glad to hear the review helped you with making your decision on what to purchase. Good luck with your exam!

[@MEWILDER901]

I'm in, can't wait to start using it!

[@Duelezz]

I'm in KC3OZD. My dad is actually getting his tech soon. Hope to win for him. Great Review again. Keep it up.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching and I hope your Dad passes with flying colors!

[@jeffpritchard4341]

Thanks for the video. Looking forward to getting my hands on one of these.

[@billybachler696]

I’m in. This would be a great addition. Don’t have an HT, would be super fun to go mobile while biking or camping

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching Billy and good luck with the drawing!

[@crappocrappoproductions-ak9403]

Nice review. I’m sold on it.

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you John, I sure you will be very happy with one of these.

[@wprunkard]

Good review. Ordered my radio 👍

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching. I'm positive you'll enjoy your new radio!

[@AG-cr6tm]

I'm looking for 2 meter radio and this is a great review! Thanks!

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching!

[@Austin-ds3dp]

I'm in .... currently using a somewhat unreliable baofeng and this would be a tremendous upgrade. Great review , I would have liked to see you make at least 1 QSO though to demonstrate how it sounds with that beefy built in speaker . Good luck to all that enter.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for stopping by Austin and that is great feedback about making contact so you can hear the speaker!

[@TryMoreDoMore]

Taking my Technician Test this evening, Looking forward to getting started. Currently radio-less. Been researching on which radios would be best starter HT. Thanks for the video.

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck on your test this evening and welcome to the ham radio community! The FT-4XR is a great little HT, in my opinion, for the newbie!

[@filippedeborger6401]

I am in ! new Ham since May 2019. Been looking to buy such a portable for some time . Good review!

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching Filippe. I appreciate the support and you are entered!

[@keslimmer]

I'm in. I have been licensed since 1967. I love your Videos.

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you for watching WA0SBU, and good luck with drawing!

[@AmWestColl]

I just purchased the FT-4RX....very nice.....good review!

[@TheNewHam]

I think you've made a wise investment. Thanks for stopping by to watch my video!

[@claireschloenvogt5959]

Great job thank you

[@mrjikey]

I’m in. Just found your channel and enjoying the content. N7CCD.

[@ths3900]

Good recommendation. That should be a great radio for a new ham.

[@briangrier8881]

I'm in, great view, I'm just starting out in Ham radio.

[@markcrummett7831]

Great intro to this radio. I’m definitely talking it up at our CERT/NET groups here in Portland, OR. Baofengs don’t work well around here; this is a good alternative. Thanks. KG7NZQ

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching and I hope some your CERT/NET groups find it to be a useful addition to their gear!

[@kellyprn]

I'm in!. Thanks for the very clear & concise review.

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you for taking time to view my video and you are entered for the drawing!

[@kellyprn]

Thanks. Loving all the videos you're doing. As a brand new HAM that's trying to get set up and on the air for my first QSO, they're very informative.

[@jhphotography9904]

I’m in! Pretty cool channel!

[@TheNewHam]

Jared Henry Thanks and good luck!

[@richardhyman6981]

Excellent video. I'm actually studying for my Technical right now so would definitely be interested in a radio like that. I'm also trying to get at least one or two of my children interested in the hobby with me. lol

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck on your Tech exam Richard! I hope your little ones become interested in the hobby as well.

[@gregbrink45able]

Very much like to win this radio. Am a new ham, literally 10 days ago, and am looking for decent quality gear that isn't a Baofeng. Thanks for doing the review, have subscribed and am looking forward to seeing new content. 73s Greg M7GHB

[@monk5470]

Great review. I'm in and would love to have this. Love Ham Radio

[@TheNewHam]

Ronald Fletcher I appreciate you stopping by to watch my video and good luck to you!

[@bobbwest]

I’m in. Nice Video, appreciate your clean review. Thanks again! Cheers! BTW - new, studying for Technician now. LOL 2020 got me again... can’t even read the date correctly. Lol

[@leonaparota3269]

Is the YAESU FR-4XR dual received?

[@granitebuilt5836]

I'm in. I thought I had entered before, but cannot find any comment listed so just making sure I get entered. Thanks.

[@jm7475]

I'm in....thanks for doing it again....

[@victorlora848]

I’m taking my technician class test this weekend and this radio would be great for my first ham radio

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck with your exam and welcome to amateur radio! It's a great little radio to start with.

[@victorlora848]

TheNewHam Thank You! I’m looking forward to making my first contact. This is one of the radios I’m considering in getting. Is the drawing still open?

[@TheNewHam]

We will be making announcement regarding the drawing. It was closed but...

[@victorlora848]

But what?

[@TheNewHam]

It will be back open soon. Sorry it chopped off my sentence. Lol

[@bobbaran7350]

I'm in! Have been messing with SDR for a while however I have been itching to get into actual radios. Seems like this would help ease the pain of a steep learning curve, and I'm poor so there's that.

[@TheNewHam]

SDR is a lot of fun but there's nothing like having that portable option. In my opinion it's a great little radio that's easy to use and easy on the budget. Thanks for watching!

[@Ficklid]

I'm in! Just getting back into the hobby. Thanks for the excellent review! -VE1GF

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching and welcome back!

[@txfotog]

Nice video. I'm going to suggest your channel to new hams that we have pop on our wide area repeater here in Austin/Central Texas.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for stopping by my channel. I appreciate the shoutout and hope things are going well in the great state of Texas!

[@ColbyHiggs]

I'm in! I take my test in 3 weeks and can't wait to get on the air!!

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck with your test and welcome to amateur radio!

[@TheNewHam]

Colby, I have great news! You are the winner! Please email me at [e-mail] so I can get your address for shipping. Congratulations!

[@byn1975]

I'm in - please add me to draw list. In the same price there is Yaesu FT-65R - would you recommend FT65R over FT-4XR or vise versa and why? Thanks

[@TheNewHam]

I like the FT-4XR because of the smaller form factor and the slightly longer battery life.

[@GG-vx7gi]

"I'm in" Win it or not, have decided on this radio for first h.t.

[@dalesaverud9695]

Nice looking radio and good review!👍

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching!

[@kirknitz3794]

I'm in, just learned of your KZbin site.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for checking the channel and good luck with the drawing!

[@FrankLiddell]

I am in, thanks for a good vid and a great promotion

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you and I appreciate you taking time to view my video.

[@mburkhart41]

Enjoyed the review. I'm in!

[@justinwisdom6422]

I'M IN!!!!!!!

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck to you Justin!

[@justinwisdom6422]

@@TheNewHam thanks studying for my Tech license as I type

[@hastigardens]

Great you boosted my confidence I was looking ruggad radio to work in disasters thanks looking forward to have this rig WANDE MATARAM De vu2dce Handle BHAA

[@lenh5259]

Good review. I'm in. Good price point for what you get and easier to program than a Baofeng. I should of went with a Yaesu :(

[@TheNewHam]

Thank you! It's definitely a great price point and very robust radio for the money.

[@bruceforster3709]

HERE'S a question for you. Will the cloning Cable work to transfer the Memories from an FT-4 to an FT-65?????

[@deanbrusky784]

I'm in. Thanks for the review of the FT4XR

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching my video Dean and good luck in the drawing!

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching my video Dean and good luck in the drawing!

[@daveschleper4991]

I'm In! (Round #2) I'm studying for the Tech exam. Thanks for the information and opportunity to enter your drawing.

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck with your Tech exam and good luck with the drawing!

[@bigtomting61]

I'm In... Sure would like that radio

[@TheNewHam]

Good luck to you Tom and thanks for visiting my channel.

[@frickinbill]

Great review and count me in Please. Been using a Baofeng and although it's a very inexpensive starter HT, programming has been more than a challenge and the performance leaves much to be desired.

[@TheNewHam]

Bill Frick Thanks for watching Bill. It’s definitely a step up from the Baofeng but still budget friendly. Good luck in the drawing!

[@PeterBargholz]

I'm in. I have 14 days quarantine so would love to have a new radio to play with!

[@TheNewHam]

Hate to hear you have been quarantined, good luck with the drawing!

[@PeterBargholz]

@@TheNewHam Thanks Scott, much appreciated.

[@GodCountryAndUs]

Great review, TY VM! - how does it compare to the Yaesu FT-65R

[@TheNewHam]

They are both quality entry level radios. I like the FT-4xr because of the smaller form factor and the longer battery life it offers. The only thing that’s the downfall now is the fact they raised price. It was $69 at Gigaparts now it’s $75. If you like a more traditional size radio I would go with FT-65r it’s only $4 more than the FT-4. Overall I still think the FT-4 edges it out but you won’t be disappointed with either radio. Both are 5 watts and have almost identical features. I don't think the FT-65r comes with a charging cradle but FT-4 does which is a big plus.

[@austinsmith9046]

I’m IN!

[@remingtonkevin65]

Hey there! KJ7CRM here, I’m in! Is this contest still going on? Looks like a great radio to go hiking with or give to a buddy.

[@TheNewHam]

Yes the contest was re-opened and the drawing will be on March 28.

[@remingtonkevin65]

I guess I lost.

[@twohandsandaradio]

I'm in!

[@stevehamilton1395]

I'm in. KK4YUG. I'm new to ham, fairly, I've had my license for a few years but my Elmer went SK a few years ago and I lost interest. I've recently retired and am wanting to get back into ham in honor of him and for me too. Thanks for the vidio's I'm trying to learn on my own (digging up info where I can)

[@TheNewHam]

Steve Hamilton Hello Steve, I’m sorry to hear about your mentor going SK. We are glad you’re here getting involved once more. Good luck in the drawing!

[@jojopri22]

Great Video, well explained about the Radio. I am a excited to try that Radio. Keep it up and more power, 73! KM6EHD

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching Jojo!

[@donselbe5812]

I'm in. Really need a better radio while setting up a HF station. De KE8JMS.

[@TheNewHam]

Don Selbe I appreciate you stopping by to watch my video and good luck with your HF rig!

[@guntalk90]

What hand mic will this take?

[@crappocrappoproductions-ak9403]

I’m in !

[@katesitioco759]

Im in. I hope i win this one

[@javiermijares]

I'm in!!

[@miketarver3089]

I’m in, All my gear is 20 or so years old. Something new would be fun. Thank you.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for watching my video and no matter how long you've been amateur radio new toys are always fun!

[@marklatham679]

I'm In! please and thanks for the chance!

[@TheNewHam]

Mark Latham Thanks for watching Mark and good luck in the drawing!

[@TheNewHam]

Congratulations Mark, you are the winner of the FT4-XR!!! Email me at [e-mail] with your address so we can get this shipped to you ASAP!

[@TheNewHam]

Hey Mark, you are the winner! Please contact me at the email address in my previous comment.

[@TheNewHam]

Hey Mark I'm still holding the FT4 for you but I will have to give it to someone else if I don't hear from you by Friday, Feb. 28. Please email me at [e-mail]

[@sraes4337]

I’m in! 73 from KY.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for entering Brian! Keep those horses fast and the bourbon smooth over there in KY.

[@edwardallan9529]

I'm in, I would love to have this radio

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for stopping by to enter and good luck!

[@sjt728]

I’m in. Thanks for the video.

[@TheNewHam]

Steve Theisen Thanks for watching Steve and good luck in the drawing!

[@steveklotz973]

I'm in again, thank you

[@steveklotz973]

I'm in! Thanks for sharing.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for stopping by to watch my video and good luck with the drawing!

[@TobyCortez]

I'm in.

[@Purgetheworld]

What was the radio you picked up and showed the camera(not the baofeng)?

[@TheNewHam]

Purgetheworld I showed the Baofeng for size comparison to the FT-4XR so everyone could see they are very similar in size. The other one was my FT-3D.

[@Purgetheworld]

TheNewHam I meant the other one, (not the UV-5R) at 6:30 you pick up another radio to demonstrate dual watch.

[@TheNewHam]

That was my Yaesu FT-3D.

[@geraldsnead]

I'm In.

[@bl5970]

I’m in. Looks like perfect radio for newbie.

[@TheNewHam]

Thanks for stopping by and watching my video! It's a great option for the newbie in my opinion.

[@bl5970]

TheNewHam you’re welcome. Looking forward to watching your videos. I’m just getting into Ham and looking to learn. Taking the tech exam in two weeks.

[@appalachiansurvivalist2080]

I’m in

[@txfotog]

I'm still in!