Yaesu FT-991a VS Icom IC7300 Comparison

You kept asking about the differences and which one to buy, so watch this video and see a little about each radio, and make the decision for yourself. Let me know in the comments WHICH you bought and WHY!
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[@thesuccessfulbarber]

Passed my tech exam on sunday. !

[@txpatriot7044]

congrats!!

[@CptCloseCall]

Congrats, dont wait to go general. Alot of the tech knowledge can help with general.

[@darylnd]

Congrats! I passed mine about the same time, studying for General and Extra now. 73, KN6NPZ

[@dxfordummies]

Just upgraded to General-Cody

[@laststone777]

Congratulations

[@submarineradioman5535]

Buy one of each! I like the ‘991A for the mobile and ‘7300 for the shack...

[@CoaxDog]

Thanks,,,,, haha, instead of helping me pick one, now I want them both.... Arrrrgh, off to go work more overtime for radio money.

[@alzeNL]

having watched a number of videos i found yours helped me the most of my choice of radio - i went with the IC7300 !

[@C4H6As]

The 991A has one thing that sets it apart from others: backlit keys! Very nice to have and not available on most other transceivers.

[@RoelandJansen]

that's true. my 7851 doesn't. I miss it (but no won't trade it)

[@Tonylovesjazz]

Seems to me that a lot of people downgrade the Yaesu FT-991A for it's menu system. (In the 'Ford vs Chevy' battle). I find it very intuitive. Most of the settings are 'Set it and Forget it'. I find that the Yaesu and the IC-7300 radios are both excellent and have a valid use for every user. However, the Yaesu is a 'Shack-in-the-box' with it's digital and 2m/70cm bands. This alone made me choose the Yaesu. I also use the Yaesu aviation FTA-750L transceiver and chose it as well for it's additional features for it's price point. You also can't go wrong with the added 3yr warranty. A Square Trade 3yr warranty...$240. Add that to the cost of an IC-7300. Best Regards and 73's.

[@NoiseWithRules]

And you want to use repeaters with different split frequencies? The 991a menus only have one split for each band! (Yes, I know how to get around that limitation - rather awkward!) And what is the 'DT GAIN' function for? And setting up FT8 etc using only the manual is beyond my understanding (though I can work around that, too). I could go on and on.... Summary - the Yaesu FT-991a is very unfriendly and the manual nearly useless.

[@Tonylovesjazz]

@@NoiseWithRules Never said anything about that or anything you have replied. You may need a Thorazine drip.

[@Tonylovesjazz]

Get help or counseling soon. God Bless.

[@IowaSheepdog]

Yaesu has its place in HAM radio, but in this case it’s the IC-7300 all the way. It has been said that the 7300 was designed to do one thing very well, rather than the 991 which does many things average. I have the 7300 for HF and I will be picking up the 9700 for UHF/VHF. Definitely the more expensive route to go, but also worth it in my opinion.

[@VK4LL]

Considering the FT991A as a more RV friendly rig rather than my current IC7300/9700 combo which is in my opinion a nicer outfit, but way too big to travel with.... Nice to have 2m/70cm built in rather than a 2nd rig.

[@clarenceswope4915]

Thank you when you were showing how to do certain little tasks it actually helped me figure out how to do those tasks on my 991 a I just hooked up my radio last night absolutely love it love your videos they are very informative 73s for now N0SPW

[@crystalsquad872]

Gud day sir, it was so interesting that both radio, i was so happy to hear all the detail each one of the, wish i could have one of those i just use portable and mobile antenna. Thanks for the video

[@donsdoityourself2547]

I like both Radios. In fact, I have one of each. I use the IC7300 for my Base Station at home with a separate VHF/UHF for local repeater activity (TYT TH-7800). Overall, I prefer the ease use of the IC7300 and like the scope better. On the other hand, I bought the FT-991A specifically for the Shack in the Box. It serves as my portable that goes with me in the RV when I camp or travel and a backup for the base if ever needed (it resides in the Pelican box to grab and go as needed). I love it for that and I have all sorts of capabilities with it and the spectrum scope is plenty adequate. They are both awesome radios and I make contacts all over the world on both. You cannot go wrong with either. If I were more into the VHF/UHF modes and I could only have one radio, I'd probably lean more towards the FT-991A as the base, but I like having the separate VHF/UHF for crossbanding with my HT and for monitoring local activity while I am working HF on the IC-7300. At the end of the day, the IC7300 is overall easier to use in my opinion, but that is not a deal breaker by any means. It is all about what you want an need out of the radio. They are indeed different radios each with their own merits. 73's KE4EVL

[@marksmadhousemetaphysicalm2938]

You did what I did...7300 sits at home...991a as mobile...I'm in an HOA...so I need to rely on a hidden antenna...still works adequately for the 7300 because it's a solid radio...the 991a is a more rugged radio and perfect for POTA with a bioenno 20 amp/hr battery and wolf river coil antenna...scope is good enough, didn't buy the 991a to watch tv... it's a radio for Pete's sake...73s...de...AC3FB...

[@1OFGODSOWN]

The display on the 7300 is much better but I did not see that you could remove the waterfall on the 7300 like you did on the 991A.I hate the waterfall so I would not want to see it Ever just the Band Scope for me.👍🎙

[@HamRadioDX]

I love my FT-991 but the IC-7300 with it's SDR is so appealing. For my needs the FT-991 is awesome.

[@W3TFART]

alberto sobieski idiot

[@W3TFART]

Electronics obviously he deleted his comment

[@W3TFART]

Electronics it was 4 weeks ago I don’t remember now

[@indridcold8433]

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[@JosephMassimino]

@@indridcold8433 Save for the Icom IC7300, it is one of the best selling SDR radios of all time, for good reason. You can get it for just under $900 US dollars

[@JosephMassimino]

When I tell some hams that all the tuning a tuner does to bring your radio into resonance, makes the tuner eat the power that does not get to the antenna. The further you get, the less power gets to the antenna, and is eaten by the tuner. Some hams go into a frenzy when you tell them that.I

[@indridcold8433]

It is common knowledge, or at least is should be. The tuner becomes resonate and is resonating and making heat, or transmitting right there inside the box. That consumes energy. They probably believe you can attach a AC motor to generator and start the motor. When the generator is producing 115 volts, you can, then power the motor from the generator and disconnect the outside power. Some fairytales die very hard, even in people that should know better. Now, Big Foot and Earth being flat, that is real.

[@JosephMassimino]

@@indridcold8433 Yes, the tuner becomes part of the antenna, so a portion of the RF goes into the tuner and is dissipated as heat, and the rest goes into the antenna. How much RF goes to either depends on how far the antenna is from resonance.

[@ryanbergs7313]

It was always my understanding they bleed off the reflection... and the reflection is the waste... all they do is dump it to ground before it gets back to your tx.

[@JosephMassimino]

@@ryanbergs7313 The reason tuners come in different power levels is because the power that does not reach to antenna due to its resonance not being on frequency, is that the tuner dissipates the power that does not reach the antenna as heat. If the tuner is not big enough for the power level, it will arc across parts in the tuner making a mess of it. This is why some people insist on seeing the inside of tuner before buying it used. Some run a lot of power until they get caught, which is hardly ever.

[@JosephMassimino]

@@ryanbergs7313 No, the tuner becomes part of the antenna, and the power that does not reach the antenna is burned off as heat in the tuner.

[@jimguelde4068]

Neither one has a cup holder. That’s rather disappointing.

[@clemensnetherlands7331]

That would be at least a 1000 dollar option bro hahahaha

[@nicklikesradio]

Nor a cigarette lighter or ash tray

[@matchlessajsbsa2157]

@@nicklikesradio I disagree - both have slots/holes on the top which are there for stubbing out your cigarette.

[@Dan-qp1el]

I know right......when do we get the cup holder guys???

[@denelson83]

Heh… 🤪

[@andrewfiertek5937]

I purchased the FT-991A as my first HF all mode radio after watching your videos about a year ago, I mostly use it for VHF/UHF (FM & SSB) and C4FM. Then just recently you started showing the capabilities of the IC-7300, now I needed one of these, WOW! Just recently I bumped into another ham who noticed my vehicle with antennas and license plate.. We started to talk and informed me he was moving to FL and selling off his gear, come to find out he had a 7300 that was 8-9 months old which I purchased for a descent price. Now I have both, thanks Eric !! I need to stop watching your videos. Thanks for the great videos really like watching them.. 73’s

[@Justin-bd2dg]

Still have both?

[@jaceizzonn877]

@@Justin-bd2dg Doubt it, but probably still has the 991A. 😉

[@rudyackerman5747]

Thanks for the video. Looking for a HF base radio. I'm liking the IC7300. Display looks better, and common setting's appear to be easier to access on the icon. However having UHF/VHF in the base would be helpful. For the $200 price difference will get you close to a good UHF/VHF radio.

[@larryward3790]

Thanks Erik for the great video and review. I did finely make up my mind, got the FT 991A. Reason, size, have very limited space for shack equipment, WIRES-X which is a great addition, plus all mode-all band capability. Don't need 5 radios to do what this one can do. SANTA was very good to me this year, HI HI !! Keep up the great work with your videos and i will keep watching. 7 3

[@brucem1553]

That made it even harder for me LOL.. Love them both but the ease of use on Icom I like more BUT more bands on 991 means less radios to buy for shack.. Tough one..

[@jolebole-yt]

Great video comparison. I like the versatility of the FT-991A, but in 2022 its out of stock everywhere. :(

[@itperdition]

My first bench radio was the Yaesu FT-847. I totally regret selling it because it was so awesome for its time. Worked a guy on UHF from Texas to Arizona via amateur ham sat, with handheld high gain antenna. Yaesu comes close to replicating the 847 with the 991, but missing all the usability of the older model. Yaesu never replicated all the functionality and usability of the 847. Miss it so much.

[@tlebryk]

On the 991A, can the waterfall be output to a laptop in the field?? Is the receive audio as good as the ICOM 7300??

[@TE5LA-GAMING]

Can these (or any other radios) be connected to an external monitor to duplicate the displays on a larger screen? If not, I'm wondering why.

[@hiddenrhythmsmusiccircles]

I like how you say, “I’m giving you the features of each with no personal preference. By the way, the Icom is mine 😂”

[@hiddenrhythmsmusiccircles]

All joking aside, this is a great video. After watching this, where my thinking is currently, I may be choosing the 7300 for home and the 991 for portable/ ARES.

[@simonbussey7530]

The Yaesu includes VHF and UHF all mode (inc digital). That's no small difference. If you need/want these then it's a no brainer.

[@skyterrapin]

7300 has 4 meters though

[@indridcold8433]

I had a neighbour, long ago, that showed me a Yeasu FT-857D long ago. It impressed me so much. He made a modification to it that had it functioning on many, many bands. He told me the transceiver, even without modifications, was quite powerful. It looked like a simple VHF transceiver like what a taxi would use. It was definitly all performance without all the useless fluff. It is likely the old transceiver is not even manufactured anymore. The small radio was in his car. He had three antennas attached to the radio. The HF antenna was an 262 centimeter antenna ran through a tuner first. The VHF an UHF were two short antennas, 49.5 centimeters for VHF and 16.5 centimeters for UHF. He was the guy that inspired me to get an old Jeep as a vehicle and made me a radio hobbyist. It is almost time for an amateur radio license since Internet is starting to fall into disfavor for communication because of censorship. He used to talk to our 49 megacycle walkie talkies on his Yeasu.

[@indridcold8433]

@@skyterrapin 4 meters is very interesting. I listen a lot. Sometimes there is DX as clear as can be. Other times, it behaves like 2 meter. It is rather an unappreciated band.

[@matthewcoy9890]

I have to agree with you Simon Bussey. I don't have the space for 2, 3, or 4 different rigs.

[@Justin-bd2dg]

@@skyterrapin useless to US hams though...

[@pastorshanewotcb9884]

One thing, of course I know you aren't familiar with the yaesu 991A, but you can assign anything especially most used items to the four touch screen buttons bottom of screen for the items You claim are easier to get to on the 7300, plus the yaesu is mode specific meaning you can place different items used most for each mode in those buttons and as you change modes they change to what you assigned them. Plus you can long press those buttons for most things on the 991 to goto adjustment sertings, except the one you tried the attenuator only has one setting thats why it did t let you make a further adjustment as you attempted. Reading the manual before you compare would be advisable otherwise it really isn't a fair comparison. But all in all you did a great job except those few errors.

[@JK-mo2ov]

Thanks for the info

[@floridasaltlife]

First 3.5 minutes might as well have been dead air !! Ran me off...

[@kayakbassfishing473]

Hey tell me which is better .. ok .. I WANT YOUR OPINION OK ... please which would you get .. Thank you.

[@gertdejonge6050]

Thnx for a great vid Eric! As for me: the perfect shack would be a 7300 combined with a 9700, but you have to pay up! That's why I've chosen the 991A, since it has VHF/UHF next to HF. This radio rocks! I hear/see many people complaining about the difficult menu, but it's really not that hard to use.

[@n8sot]

oooohhhhh.....i'm sooo ....not confused....but holy crap!!!! which one!!!! i'm still floating towards the icom. great vid....Thanks!!!!

[@TXLorenzo]

Go with the Icom and get yourself an HT for local vhf/uhf

[@DWood-vl5ek]

After watching your video, I bought both.

[@jamiecook5066]

Love my 7300. SDR and features were the right choice for me. I already have a 2 meter radio with fusion and dmr HT. The receive is awesome on HF with the NR and filters you can program per band on the fly. Under a grand with rebates!!! What is not to like!!!

[@kb9oak749]

I have a small space available for my ham equipment. The shack in the box 991a is a good fit for my needs.

[@theroguetomato5362]

I couldn't get past the preamble. Get to the points next time.

[@LancasterWannaBe]

I played with both, and ended up getting the 991A. 7300 is definitely better visually, and I have read it's better for HF. But all band/all mode was desirable. Smaller form factor was important. And to me, the 991A felt a good bit "tougher" for travel and field use. I also wanted the 2m & 70cm. (local comms are pretty important to me). I've had no issues with it yet. I have a few items I'd like improved in future models, naturally ... but ultimately my signal gets through, and I hear the distant end well. I constantly get great reports on it from thousands of miles away. THE BANDS ARE NOT DEAD! I'm a new ham - especially to hf - and I make contacts easily! I will probably get a 7300 for home use eventually and use the 991A for everything else. I think they're both great, and I really don't think you can go wrong with either one. If you want 2m & 70cm in the rig, it's a simple choice. If you don't care ... you have some more consideration to do.

[@johnbauman4005]

So, 3 years on, care to provide us with any more feedback on the 991A? I hear a lot about the clumsy menu system on the Yaesu vs Icom 7300 with many folks selling or otherwise moving away from it for that reason. Right now, AFAIK, the 991A is the only available 100W full spectrum "Shack-In-The-Box." This seemed to me to be an important consideration but many hams prefer to go with a dedicated HF radio and separate VHF/UHF radio. Would appreciate your thoughts. 73, KK7JBZ

[@Johnyrocket70]

Can't you mirror both screens to a pc or tablet?

[@lucamastino5570]

991A Forever! my ICOM IC-7300 it has been in my shack 1 month...

[@timothygoetz9742]

I have a 991a and a Icom 705. I'm a general for 1 year now. The Digital modes confuse the crap out of me. Plus I'm not sure there are any repeaters with digital modes available in my area. Is there a video that helps with digital?

[@G7VFY]

Don't waste 24+ mins watching this nonsense. The deciding factor is if you are near a Yaesu system fusion C4FM or the Icom equivalent, DSTAR. The Icom can do the European 4m band, pretty well out of the box. Both radios do HF, 6m, HOWEVER, the Icom 7300 is direct sampling whereas the Ft991a uses roofing filter(s). The Yaesu FT-991A (The 'A' is the important!) is an updated version of the problematic FT-991 which was rushed out and had lots of issues. Icom waited until theirs was more 'debugged' and the software more refined. Also, all the new Icom radios have exactly the same user interface. I think the Yaesu rig control software is free but Icom charge for theirs, hardly a deal breaker. The Icom is FAR more modern design and the Yaesu is a collection of bug fixes. However on HF there is little to tell them apart. HOWEVER, 4M is a VERY popular band in Europe and 4m DX is very very do-able. I currently have both and I am selling my 991a

[@Liverichandtiny]

Would you recommend the 991a or the 7100 for a all in one shack?

[@nicklikesradio]

The 7100 is older, but still a good radio. They had some tx issues early on but so did the ft991 (non a). They're both good radios. I personally own an ft991 non a model. I like it alot. Some things I don't like are the way the memories work, and how the vfo works in FM mode. The main dial on the ic-7100 can be configured for 5 khz steps, which is nice on 2 meters. It (7100) has a selector that makes the vfo knob click on each step. Whereas the 991 doesn't have the click, and it's set for 100 hz or 1 khz when the fast button is pressed. You're supposed to push the frequency step button on the screen and then use the multi use knob on the yaesu. Then it steps the frequency up or down whatever you have it set for. Problem with that is when you hit any other button on the screen that uses that knob, you have to find the frequency step button again to get the stepping function back on that knob. Also consider what digital modes are more active in your area, if you're going digital.

[@Flburr99]

Good video, before you send back the 991 will you do a comparison with your 7100, please. I’m in the market for a new rig but want to get into VHF/UHF SSB and HF and having been comparing these 2 radios a lot. Keep up the good work, KC5SOZ and KI5EMR.

[@miker1473]

The 991 only does something like 50 watts on vhf/uhf. That a bummer. Still need bricks if you're going to get serious.

[@Justin-bd2dg]

I love VHF SSB on my FT-897D!

[@barryf5479]

I'm more confused now :-) I was partial to the Yaesu FT991A because of the VHF/UHF capability for about a hundred more. However I like the display quality and the overall simpler user interface of the Icom 7300. Turning through over 100 menu choices with a knob just doesn't set with me well. I thought I had my mind "made up" but now I'm swaying toward the Icom and just getting a separate VHF/UHF rig to go with it.

[@dxfordummies]

Imho its better to have a dedicated hf rig as you scroll through the bands. Have a vhf rig seperate so you can monitor the local repeaters

[@RU2AIM]

...not much of a *_receiver_* comparison 🤨

[@joeowen1429]

Hi Eric: nice comparison of the two rigs. You may have omitted the GREATEST feature of the iCOM 7300 and that is the wonderful transmit audio design that their engineers built into the rig. The 7300 does a fantastic job of "packing" the audio into the selected bandwidth and adjusting the tones, both high level Eq and low level Eq, and doing it all by just using the stock handheld mic. This allows the average Ham to selectively enhance his/her own transmitted voice to compensate for any deficiency, or to enhance his/her voice to sound more like a broadcast quality station. To equal this feature, one would have to spend about $250 for a mic capable of equaling this capability already built into the 7300. You will never hear a bad sounding 7300, they are distinctive.

[@adrianoragazzo1321]

We have to remember just one thing : we aren't a broadcast speakers but "Hams" so the "average" Ham should know about the 2400Hz and the benefit if going narrow . All the effort with Behringer racks , condenser microphones etc etc ...and maybe who's listening use a PC speaker *laughs* .

[@NoiseWithRules]

I have used both of these radios. The Yaesu is about the most UNfriendly radio I have ever come across and the manual isn't much help either*. The Icom is easy to drive, there is a basic manual for getting going and a great advanced manual if you want something unusual. The Icom display has most everything you need to know at a glance but the Yaesu just has the minimum. However the Yaesu does 2m and 70cm, also C4FM - the Icom doesn't. * Try finding what the 'DT GAIN' setting does - the manual tells you where it is but not what it's for!

[@anthonycosta1776]

it didn't get past me that you showed the icom scope out to 25k and the yaesu at 50k. Of course the Icom will look cleaner and Give the illusion of faster recovery time. Please in the future try no to show favoritism. That being said the icom is the better radio in general. Thank you.

[@clemensnetherlands7331]

I have seen them by people at home and in the field. Overal the icom is the better radio!!!!,......BUT! If you want to use one of these radio's at fielddays and JOTA, i would absolutely go for the Yaesu. The Strong signal handling of the Icom is Not all that great. I love both radio's equal. If i need a HF radio for at home or in an RV not realy close to other hams i would defnetly go for the Icom. If i need a radio for gatherings, meetings, fielddays, ARES, JOTA and so on, i would defnedly go for the Yausu. Good luck with your choice.

[@denelson83]

For the benefit of those not in the US: 3:30 - 23.5 cm, 22.9 cm, 25.4 cm, 23.5 cm. 4:12 - 10.9 cm, 8.9 cm.

[@indridcold8433]

Thank you but I am in Manchester. We use both with a preference for metric. I am certain the rest of the planet appreciates it as well. I believe the United States of America uses both as well with the preference for the British Imperial standard.

[@ryanbergs7313]

I wear a watch with a slide rule bezel just so I can convert units in my head

[@tommcintyre2963]

Thanks for the efforts and explanatory video. I have both rigs for separate purposes. Mostly to do with mobile requirements. My bottom line is the Icom feels and looks like a Cadillac to drive while the Yaesu gets the job done and has VHF and UHF. Your mileage may vary. Thanks to both corporations for bringing to the ham community these leading edge radio's.

[@barryf5479]

Thanks. You've reaffirmed my opinion on these two also. I like the Icom's user interface and display a lot better but having 2M and 70 CM in the box is nice too For me, I think I'd get a separate VHF/UHF rig and go with the Icom. I think the Yaesu "more than one hundred items" with a knob would grate on me over time. Icom's UI is much more logical and quick to use IMHO.

[@HamRadioPogaduchyPA1RAF]

If you use you transceiver only for HF bands.... Absolutely icom 7300 wins!!!! Today radio need to be with a scope, not half scope als yaesu has. Sorry but this is the true.

[@fasnuf]

showing the menus made a big difference to me, thanks from a non pro

[@00AquaFire00]

Great review and video. I have both radios, and much prefer the 7300. The Yaesu’s menus are not intuitive and I dont like having to go hunting for what I want. The 7300, its super easy to quickly find and adjust everything.

[@bitemykrank1970]

As I'm about to buy my first Amateur radio, and I have whittled it down to one of these two and one other radio over many weeks of research, it's nice to see a genuine comparison, with no bias to one or the other, just simple facts about each unit. Well done, this is the BEST review of these two radio's I have found so far on KZbin. Essentially, the main difference I can see is the Icom is HF only, the Yaesu is 3 radio's in one. The waterfall really is the only apparent difference when they are turned on. They both do the same thing in the HF and 6m bands, both have 100w output, both are nice to look at. The extra bands available in one over the other depends entirely on who is using it, how they use it and what they prefer. I like having seperate radio's for HF, 2m and 70cm. I can be talking on 21Mhz and still listen to local 2m stuff or UHF on my other radio's. Personal preference's rule this showdown...you still need multiple antenna's for either. I wish I could afford both, this would save the angst.........

[@browntroy101]

This was a very good video! I like that you tried your best to keep the personal opinion out of it! This was a very helpful video! Currently I am leaning very much to the ICOM 7300 as my first base ! I love the simplistic and the larger screen as the best reason for me to go that route. Once again Great video and Thanks for keeping it real!!

[@coziii.1829]

I’m learning just studying for tech This is still all Greek to me . Will this be a one and done for me

[@sixsix4025]

Hopefully you got your license by now You gotta ask yourself, why do you want a license? Talk with friends? Talk with strangers? Being a prepper? Try and understand the awesomeness of communication via true wireless, antenna to antenna in another part of the world, with people you don't know yet, with pure science and physics guiding your signal. If you don't find that fun and awesome, you won't ever get this video or any video on ham radio. You gotta love the art of radio to be in this.

[@misutatomasu]

Yaesu has horrible UI and fonts imo

[@G1WHP]

They both look good but I reckon the Yaesu wins by a whisker due to HF to UHF coverage. Thanks for the comparison. Paul.👍

[@jimm8596]

I already have half a dozen VHF UHF radios of some sort. IC-7300 is superior if you don't need those bands, in my opinion.

[@Justin-bd2dg]

@@jimm8596 why?

[@mindblast3901]

@@Justin-bd2dg IC-7300 is direct conversion receiver Yeasu ft991a super heterodyne Ic-7300 gets overloaded by strong signals in cities or urban areas

[@YZFoFittie]

@@mindblast3901 I thought they were both SDR?

[@mindblast3901]

@@YZFoFittie no yeasu ft991a is super hetrodyne better in high rf areas etc cities signal front end rejection

[@1crazynordlander]

I have to question myself since not long ago I passed my General element. Do I buy a nice YSF 2m, 70cm mobile radio while it is still on sale , since I have one DMR HT and an eBayspot, two YSF radios and an openSPOT2 if I should indulge my earthly desires and buy the FTM-400XDR now and wait to get a IC-7300 in the fall because summers is here and I don't have time for Ham Radio or just skip the FTM-400XDR and the IC-7300 in the fall and get the FT-991a now...hmmm...I know you can't help me with this. I think I will still get the IC-7300 in the fall...you know this is not a hobby anymore...sad...I am staring down an Amatuer Extra Class Manual sitting on my coffee table.

[@BruceNitroxpro]

1crazynodrlander , Hey, I'm using my Icom 7300 with a few things that didn't get covered... using the chip you can buy to store settings, changes and all more than once... upgraded the OS using online files, and use an extended frequency display to the cycle (also a setting). I only paid $999 for mine. de KQ2E

[@mrfinn2006]

I`ve had both and i have to say the Icom 7300 is a dream to use. Its just so pleasant. I found the ft991A menus a bit clunky in comparison and the band scope slow and UN-informing.

[@LUISkamakan]

Muchas felicidades, me gustó el vídeo y esas voces de locutor están sensacionales muchas bendiciones máster

[@dr.hillbilly503]

I thought "someone" was saying not to be a scope head. Any idea who that could have been? LOL

[@BruceNitroxpro]

Dr. hillbilly , I don't operate the OLD way anymore. I use the scope and waterfall on my IC-7300. de KQ2E

[@jozinzbazin7141]

Finally I get 2 of them. FT991 should never been compare with IC7300. IC7300 is totally different level and much more advanced than FT991a. 991 has a lot of issue like ATU increase instead of decrease SWR, end transistor will die soon ol later as drain current is wrongly set up, VERY COMPLICATED MENU!!!, Touch screen is used ONLY on the bottom part - just for button, DSP is doing good job but sounds like at submarine. When I bought IC7300 (I heve never Icom except IC R20) I startet to use it imedietly withour reading manual. Menu is like at Android - very easy to operate, very intuitive. You do not need to run thru 120 menu poitns (991). It could be strange but I like more FT857 to go thru menu and set up than 991. DSP is great at IC and knobs are availabe at the control panel - not at Yeasu menu. In terms of waterfal, screen set up - it waste time to describe how IC7300 is great and 991 is dramatic. If you need 2m/70cm buy another radio for those bands but for HF - ONLY IC7300. On top with FW update you are getting new functionality of the IC7300 which is not possible for traditional TRX.

[@JarlSeamus]

If the ICOM had 2 meter/70 cm it would be the perfect radio..... I still have to go with it, just because of the interface. It feels more intuitive for a newer HAM and more "current". The Yaesu display feels like a 1990's style menu structure, less like a modern Smart Phone.

[@ka-bar5060]

This truly is not a fair comparison. The FT-991A is the jack of all trades mobile unit whereas the IC-7300 is the dedicated HF workhorse. In a perfect world, you would have a dedicated unit for each function with the detailed features of the IC-7300 (IC-9700 & IC-7300), but in the real world many of us do not have that much spendable cash, so in comes the FT-991A which offers a solid compromise with great features that will not bust your wallet. Winner...Yaesu!

[@SirFrucka]

Just ordered one from DX Engineering! Was supposed to not be in stock until about July 29th, but was refreshing tabs and 5 popped into stock. Still out everywhere else. As of 7;00 PM Pacific 6/08/2022 there are two left. Hope I like it. Very little chance I wont.

[@charlescassidy1496]

Which radio did you get?

[@dalejohnson9342]

I have had both brands and I have liked both. I am a little more interested in the 991A as I plan to be mobile for the majority of the time and the 7300 is less able for that method. The 2 and 440 make the biggest difference in that respect as ti is easier to have everything in one unit in a mobile system. I am still using a 706 II G in the motorhome as it is a great workhorse and I would keep that up if it had the digital ability that is needed for some of the 10meter, 2 meter and 440 repeaters.

[@charlescassidy1496]

I work DX on 10m with the IC-7300 on my lunch break most days from the mobile

[@ManuelPinner]

The Yeasu ft991A is a much better Choice because it's have more Bang for it's Price, Because it also includes VHF and UHF Digital Modes!

[@skoda8761]

yes but VHF/UHF in the same box not good

[@johnbauman4005]

@@skoda8761 Please elaborate. Why is that the case? Serious question; forgive my ignorance.

[@TBizzell68]

Thanks for this video, I’m researching a new hf rig, I like that the Yaesu has vhf/uhf, I’ve never been fond of their modular plug for the mic, (I have a 857D and a FT-8800) neither has ever given me problems with the connectors. The Icom 7300 seems to be my choice currently, the screen seems nicer and the menu seems easier. I like and own both company’s gear as well as Kenwood. I still continue to research, it’ll be a bit before I take the plunge.

[@rgraca]

How about temperture in both radios?

[@Niner9er]

I'm getting a 991a because I still haven't gotten my callsign yet, so I'll still be doing VHF/UHF for a bit until I go for general. The 991a will allow me to TX/RX on all bands available to tech, as well as listening on HF and setting up an antenna before I get my general. When I do get general I will probably get the IC-7300 for a dedicated HF rig, and the 991a for VHF/UHF and a more portable shack-in-a-box for if I ever want to do POTA. I hope this is a decent plan and I'm not just falling into the HAM money pit here lol

[@chrisbaker2903]

I already own a Yaesu FTM-100D 2 meter/70 cm with C4FM digital I don't see much point in buying another radio that has that feature and you showed how much bigger and easier to understand the 7300's screen and menus are. I just want a better radio than my old Kenwood TS-450 that has a dead internal tuner and is noisy, but hey, it gets out. I'm not legally vision impaired but I am a bit near sighted such that I need a set of computer glasses and I take them off to see close up and a different set for driving. So the bigger, easier to use screen clinches it for me. ICOM, here I come.

[@Hubjeep]

It's interesting that the IC7300 has been out for years and the new FT-991a has a SMALLER screen. Everything is going big screen nowadays.

[@Linas_LY2H]

Nice comparison! I don't have the FT-991 but I do have its older incarnation FT-897D which I like mainly for the excellent performance on VHF/UHF CW and SSB, and I have the "simplified version " ( minus colour display and VHF/UHF) of the '991 - the FT-891 which I bought for my portable work in the parks since it's the smallest 100W HF radio on the market and it demonstrates surprisingly good reception, mainly due to the wise combination of both analogue and digital signal processing. I believe the same reliable designe is applied for the FT-991 too. I do own an IC-7300 for more than a year. The main reason I bought it was... pure curiosity! Because it was a first pure , fully SDR rig made by a major manufacturer. I think it is important to stress: the '7300 is of TOTALLY different design, totally new Software Defined Radio technology. The only analogue part in it is probably the laoudspeaker and the tuning knob :). Is it important if you only want to make a QSO? Probably not, any radio will do if you don't care about the technology and progress :). It's like with cars: it is very hard to compare the gasoline engine and the fully electrical car. Yes, both may bring you from point A to B, but there is no way of comparing which engine is better. They're just different. Knowing these differencies may be an argument while making a purchasing decision. The same with radios IMHO. I have tried the IC-7300 in the field portable work by the way. The impressions are generally good, but it's not my favourite portable rig. There is a short video on my channel explaining why. But I love using this radio for my digital modes due to its simple one-cable connectivity to the PC. 73! Linas LY2H

[@kerbsidemotors9249]

I’ve a 991 and an icom7300- 7300 is easier to use. The 991 menu system is all over the place. That and the vfo / memory glitch on 991 is unforgivable as steps get mixed up needing a reset

[@siientsinger6637]

You know what for the last 25 years has really annoyed me with flagship company's , we a RHams get the build up prior to release , we start thinking of selling peter to fund paul ( remember Peter has been loyal for 2 yrs !) it happened on me on the IC706 MK1 when it was first released , all the millions who suffered the MK1/and 2 probs, we don't get letters saying GOLD service couriers are picking your new Paul up, we have to wait for a "mk2",,, now as advanced as radio is now, % wise, if there are any "Generals"or Commanders ", our friends in their twilight years, did they get the same Yaesu vs Trio , was the Yaesu FT101 range the most trouble free radio ever ???? were days when eg the Yaesu ft757gx and Kenwood TS 50s far simpler ??

[@williambouchard4480]

I have owned the Yaesu 991 ( not A ) , and the Icom 7300 and I really like the full touch screen that the 7300 has and all that can be done with it. However as I believe others have reported the 7300 is not the radio to take to Field Day because as a full SDR radio it will get the front end overloaded if their are other radios operating in close proximity. As your main radio in your hamshack it is perfect. Now I felt to my ears the 991 had a better sounding speaker and as a hybrid SDR the radio would work better at Field Day and would not get overwhelmed. I also really liked that the 991 is a "Shack in the box" as you get HF, VHF, and UHF in one radio so if someone were looking to buy just one radio then that is what I would recommend. I ended up selling my 991 and bought the Yaesu FTM-400 so I could listen to repeaters while also working HF on the Icom 7300. Thanks for doing this review. N3EDO.

[@kerbsidemotors9249]

@@williambouchard4480 Owning both the 7300 runs rings round the 991. I do have anft817nd ft857D ft847 And the Ft857d is a favourite mobile. My thoughts are people need to try these radios and see what suits them-the 991 is OK for 2m and 70cm.

[@kd5you1]

@@williambouchard4480 We used band pass filters during Field Day even as a 10A and there were no problems with front end overload.

[@BruceNitroxpro]

@@kd5you1 , We do too. de KQ2E NPARC and I'll bet there were no problems.

[@dennisthrush2835]

Is there any transceiver that works DStar, Fusion, and DMR?

[@shaofuchang515]

I have both, do not like the FT-991 at all, in fact I'm not liking the Yaesu concept of putting in 100 menus and submenus in between in every single radio. the Icom I can learn by fiddling with it, Yaesu... often I end up in a setting I don't want but have to resort to the menu or forum or youtube to figure out what might be wrong. This is my third Yaesu, performance wise... they are great radios. Just really lousy with the sharp learning curve and counter-intuitive way Yaesu puts its buttons and menu options. One thing is clear: FT-991 is a ham shack in one unit, HF/VHF/UHF/ D-Star, CF4M, WIRESX, Fusion, a ton of other modes so there's really no comparison. IC-7300 is uber fancy like a smartphone, but those who LOVES to customize everything will be disappointed by the Icom because they will be limited to the general settings. The IC-7300 has an SD card reader that the FT-991 does not. the SD gives you three important benefits. Updating firmware is easy no computer to radio interface needed, recording voice is easy, and you get to save your settings. Multiple users can operate the same IC-7300 unit and simply restore their user preferences overwriting the operator before them. This makes the IC-7300 extremely welcoming for public showcase or field day or community work, requiring only a setting restore when you relieve the operator before you. the FT-991 uses less room than say.... an IC-7300 HF/6m and an IC-2730 for VHF/UHF, so if you're building a go-box its much lighter. but the waterfall is harder to read on the Yaesu, the waterfall is more of a show. The TS even set at "fast" isn't quite fast enough to scan the band by hand. the FT-991 is useful if you know exactly where you are going which then a memory preset will get you there. Note that the HF/VHF/UHF capability is not stand alone (you can't monitor HF activity while talking on 2m and so on) For the price, FT-991 is the best bang for the buck, but for user friendliness for new generals go for the IC-7300. for like me, save up and buy both. 73 de KN4GEI

[@jaceizzonn877]

Had both, the iCOM is a pretty CB, the Yaesu is an Amateur radio, but nowdays a lot of so-called Hams are easily fooled into thinking their CB is "A great Radio!" because it has pretty lights - lol

[@kiteflys8942]

I get very poor reports about FM vhf uhf audio quality. Low and Muffled has been told every time I put it on the air. Its been removed from service.

[@kc6nfv746]

The video on these Radio not a true vfo it's more like a volume knob it just keeps spinning ICOM don't have VHF or UHF you can't compare them that way you can compare them in transmit what one sound better in transmit

[@Spikey1968]

love the 991a but wish the waterfall was as good as the 7300 one

[@JosephMassimino]

The water fall is good, but smaller, that is all. The radio has way more than the 7300, for a small increase in price. You can increase the size of the waterfall by using a bigger screen and some software. There is a lot of software out there, so go look around.

[@martyke4kew10]

I just reviewed this video again after many times and just realized there is no mention of the ICOM's 4 pin power adapter to let's say an LDG Autotuner VS the FT 991A's lack thereof. So I assume a separate DC power supply cable to an external tuner with an accessory cable or stereo jack between tuner and radio would do it?

[@danluzurriaga6035]

From this review? Icom IC7300 is way superior. Plus I do not like Yaesu service and the way they discontinue repair parts when they discontinue their model numbers. Yaesu is planned obsolescence. Besides, you can see the large IC7300 display with fast response, the HF features are so easy to use. For VHF/UHF I use a separate VHF/UHF radio and always will, and, Iusually have both VHF and HF on separately and simultaneously. The Yaesu vhf/uhf features are neither desired nor useful FOR AN HF RADIO.

[@scotthansenmtbt4110]

The 7300 has a lot more Christmas lights, but you didn't go into "performance" of the two. If you live in a high noise area, the 7300 is a noisier rig. If I was a betting man, I would bet on the Yaesu to out perform the Icom. I have an FT-891 and the reciever is awesome, and the transmit is also. For me, on radio, I want to hear, and be heard. Yes the 7300 has an impressive screen to look at. I believe it's "all flash, no dash"! Lots of smoke and mirrors to entice the masses.

[@Manuelgcv6]

it's noisy because you can't use it , I have a 775 and a 590sg and I can tell you that by now I only use the 7300

[@musicM0VESme]

I live 10 miles west of nyc and my 7300 is very quiet. It has a noise blanker that actually works.

[@thomastammaro693]

Great tutorial. I jumped in at the entry level on the IC 7300. Thank you! Keep the videos rolling pls.

[@AdamSWL]

Sold an FT-897D to fund the IC-7300, which was a great step up. But really regret selling the 897. Found a good deal on a FT991A and have both radios. The IC-7300 absolutely blows the 991A away with it's spectrum scope, but the 991A is great for portable and doing VHF/UHF SSB work and is a great replacement for the 897D. When you have them both, it is a really nice combination!

[@KX4UL]

I did pretty much the same thing. I have owned two FT-897D's. I sold the first when I was traveling for work and off the air for 7 years. Got back into HAM and had to have another and found a nice used one. I sold it to fund a new IC-7300 that is an awesome radio and likely a better performer than the FT-991A. But I loved and miss the small, compact, all in one "shack-in-a-box" features of the FT-897D's. I have decided to purchase a new FT-991A soon!

[@LlorenLts]

I’m planning to buy the 991a. Any issues with it?

[@craigjetta90]

So i had to buy both after watching this :) Cheers 73's

[@davidmauldin6615]

Good video Eric. I went with the IC-7300, I like the interface of the ICOM. I have a lot of ICOM radios. Some Yaesu radios too. I liked the larger screen on the IC-7300. I love my new IC-7300, that I bought in December of 2019. I am sure that both the FT-991A and the IC-7300 are very good radios. It just gets down to personal preference and what you want to do with them. If you want a Ham Shack in a box, then the Yaesu might be a better choice for that purpose. 73, WA6TWJ Dave Mauldin

[@vw68autobug]

Excellent video of two comparable radios . I'm glad I'm not looking at buying another radio. It would have been a difficult decision. It would have been if I wanted 2m & 70cms then the FT 991 would need to be the radio to buy. Otherwise Yikes!!! I have only ever purchased an Icom 2m FM transceiver. My other Radios being Yaesu. VK2LEE Lee

[@MBJanus]

I would like to add a Patreon but if I dont want to discuss the more easier use of the 7300 (despite I bought a 991a ) I would have been pleased to hear the 2 transceivers trying to hear a weak and difficult signal and see how they manage to understand it (given that the owners know how to do their best however the settings are easy to use)

[@SteveH-TN]

Thanks for sharing this information and video. It’s been helpful I’ve been considering getting an ICOM 7300. Your video convinced me the ICOM 7300 will be my choice. I also own a Yeasu FT 857D which I will keep for mobile. The 7300 will be both QTH and POTA/SOTA Portable . Appreciate your providing enough information on each radio for me to be able to determine which will be best for me. 73 Steve AA4SH

[@tonymcgee1146]

I bought a 991A, sold it and bought a 7300, and never looked back. I think the 7300 is much easier to use, easier to navigate the menu. The VHF/UHF was not an issue for me as I prefer separate radio for 2m/440. 60 meters easier to use on the 7300. I use mine as base station, if I operated portable I'd go with the FT-891.

[@jaceizzonn877]

Wow, I did just the opposite, but I live in an HF Amateur Operator rich area and the loose receiver of the 7300 got easily wiped out whereas the 991A doesn't, plus the 991A has a real RF gain instead of a silly CB variable attenuator.

[@bensmith4563]

What I really want is an hf vhf uhf radio that is as simple as a cb to use for in my semi truck

[@KREllis-vr1ix]

857d or the equivalent from Icom.

[@jfranke3]

For me, I think I would go with the 7300 in the shack but I’m considering changing the Icom 706 in the go box for the 991. I like a single radio in the go box and the screen on the 991 would be a big improvement over my 706. Great video. It’s tough to do a comparison when you’re really not comparing apples to apples but you did and I think you answered everyone’s questions who didn’t really know the differences.

[@3butalcomp3]

Well, for me I just love my monster Icom 740, manufactured in 1983. Other rigs can barely beat the performance both RX and TX, it's a tight radio. And to mod. It for GEN. Coverage {testing purposes only, of course} W/O a crystal swap is fairly involved. I must admit, the 7300 has me really interested. I'd like to see one close up and personal. PS: no comparison between the 740 and the 730, both are from the same era. 745? No offense, but good luck. Old radios are great when designed to perform properly with a decent life expectancy, wear and tear aside. Time for Pizza now so... have a great day everyone.

[@danialphaomega]

Well I have $3,000 kicking around and I really like to explore something else besides 11 meters.

[@loctite222ms]

First step is cheap. Get a license, if you don't already have one. Don't even need that just to listen.

[@ryanbergs7313]

Thats where I'm at right now, taking the test august first and researching what to buy. Im thinking the 991 because its an everything all in one. And it seems that these radios hold their value really well, so if i ever do want to upgrade I could trade in.

[@tommcintyre2963]

Gentlemen, methinks this was a tongue in cheek bit of humor.... Cheers,

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

I've not bought or used either yet, but as I've passed General last week, getting into HF would be nice with either of these. Eric always has great videos explaining the differences. And for myself, while I like the pluses that were pointed out on the ICOM 7300, I am willing to choose the FT-991A over the 7300 as the one I'm saving for and looking to see what shows on used. Why? For the shack in the box aspect, all mode from HF up to VHF 2 Meter and UHF 70cm in one box.

[@sammiller6631]

If you want shack in the box 2m and 70cm, you can get IC-7100. That has D-STAR which the Yaesu does not have.

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

@@sammiller6631 ok yes, thanks for pointing that out about DStar. The 7100 you mentioned looks very nice as well, with good specs. However, unfortunately my two biggest obstacles that can't be overcome are money and housing rules prohibiting antennas. I'm on Disability so the income is fixed, and the housing is county low income. I may in the future be able to get a mobile unit in the minivan, but even that's on hold.

[@drnv150]

No contest, hands down IC-7300 is better for HF, realistically I want HF out in the field, I have plenty of other mobiles.

[@geoffh784]

Unless you are an operator that does VHF/UHF SSB or CW in the field, for example - www.wia.org.au/members/contests/vhfuhf/

[@perkunast9680]

991a, all the way "Just Buy a cheap Baofeng radio for your 2/70cm " Really....why not just buy a cheep Baofang for Hf while your at it, its the same thing. You forget to mention with buying a new radio you may need a extra power supply or connectors and switches also a SWR tuner. A new mic if you want a desk top one, and that's if they make it for that model. How about that speaker again, switches and connectors. Who in the world wants all that crap to deal with or have on your desk?. The waterfall is nicer on the IC7300, but to me its a bit of a gimmick. If that's what floats your boat, hook it up to a 70" tv and watch it all day long. Plz....

[@justinodonnell8178]

Good point

[@jlca320]

great video. I'm hoping for a 7300 in my future only thing stopping me is money lol. As for the bands being dead with my Yaesu ft-857 d and a g5rv junior I make regular contacts to Europe and South America from South Carolina. I am in search of a better antenna so any suggestions would be appreciated space is limited to a small backyard.

[@stuanthony8197]

Ended up with the Icom 7300, one of my favorite features (not mentioned?) is the SD Card memory which makes changing and saving settings a breeze. Thank you for the side-by-side comparison!

[@DrCrabfingers]

7300 for me...visually it is more appealing....the screen in the centre, the bigger screen....maybe if you wanted a mobile rig to explore the whole landscape from 30cm to 80m you might want the 991....but for a home based rig the Icom is shouting "Buy Me!"