Yaesu FT-817ND Review: Is it Worth the Hype?

The Yaesu FT-817ND is a radio that has garnered significant attention among ham radio operators, especially those who enjoy QRP (low-power) operations and portable setups. Launched in the early 2000s, this compact, all-band transceiver has managed to maintain a loyal following even with the release of newer models. The FT-817ND is celebrated for its versatility, providing coverage on HF, VHF, and UHF bands, while remaining light and portable enough to fit into any backpack.

But with all the excitement surrounding it, many wonder if this radio truly lives up to its reputation. In a world where radios are rapidly evolving, does the FT-817ND still deserve the hype it gets? In this detailed review, we’ll explore its design, features, performance, pros and cons, and whether it still stands out in today’s competitive market. Let’s dive in and see if the Yaesu FT-817ND is still worth considering for your next portable rig.

1. Design and Build Quality

One of the key selling points of the Yaesu FT-817ND is its compact design. Weighing in at just over 2 pounds (approximately 1 kg) and measuring 5.3 x 1.5 x 6.5 inches, it is ideal for portable operations. Whether you’re planning to go on a hiking expedition, or a field day, or simply want a radio that can easily fit on your desk, this device is engineered to be versatile. Its small form factor makes it easy to carry, and many operators praise its durability.

Build Quality and Materials

The FT-817ND is built with a rugged, sturdy chassis that feels solid in hand. While some might find the buttons and knobs on the smaller side, it’s a necessary trade-off for its portability. The construction is reliable, with a robust aluminum case that can withstand outdoor conditions like dust, light rain, and the occasional bump or knock. The controls are well laid out, albeit a bit cramped due to the size, but they are intuitive for experienced users.

Display and Interface

The display is basic but functional. It offers a simple, easy-to-read LCD screen that shows key information like frequency, mode, and battery status. While it’s not a high-resolution or color screen like many modern radios, it gets the job done. The buttons and tuning knobs are laid out conveniently, though some users have mentioned that using it in low-light conditions can be tricky since the buttons are not backlit.

Portability

What makes the FT-817ND stand out is its portability. It’s one of the smallest all-band radios on the market, making it an excellent choice for outdoor activities such as Summits on the Air (SOTA) or Parks on the Air (POTA). Despite its compact design, it offers access to almost all amateur radio bands, making it incredibly versatile for its size.

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2. Technical Features

The Yaesu FT-817ND is an all-mode, all-band transceiver, which is its biggest selling point. It covers HF, VHF, and UHF bands, which means you can operate on 160 meters through 70 centimeters without needing additional equipment. It supports a wide range of modes, including SSB (Single Sideband), CW (Continuous Wave), AM, FM, and digital modes like PSK31 and RTTY.

Band Coverage and Power Output

The FT-817ND offers broadband coverage from 1.8 MHz to 450 MHz, making it one of the few radios that can do HF, VHF, and UHF right out of the box. However, as a QRP transceiver, its power output is limited to 5 watts in all modes. For QRP enthusiasts, this is a feature, not a bug, as it challenges operators to make long-distance contacts with low power, but it may not be suitable for those who prefer higher output radios for DXing.

Receiver Sensitivity and Performance

The receiver on the FT-817ND is quite sensitive, and users have noted that it performs admirably in both HF and VHF/UHF bands. Its sensitivity on HF bands is around 0.2 μV, making it efficient in picking up weak signals. However, some users have mentioned that it can be a bit noisy in crowded band conditions, particularly on HF, where stronger filters could have been more beneficial.

Battery Options and Life

One of the more limiting aspects of the FT-817ND is its battery life. It comes with a NiMH rechargeable battery pack, but with a power output of 5 watts, the battery tends to drain fairly quickly. In real-world use, you can expect around 4-5 hours of operation at low power settings. Fortunately, there are aftermarket solutions, such as external battery packs or solar panels, which can extend its operating time significantly.

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3. Performance in the Field

When it comes to field operations, the FT-817ND shines. Whether you’re operating from a mountain top, a park, or during an emergency, its lightweight design and broadband coverage make it a strong contender for portable and emergency communications.

Portability and Ease of Use

As mentioned earlier, portability is where the FT-817ND excels. You can pack it up with minimal effort and carry it in a backpack or even a small shoulder bag. Its rugged design ensures that it can take a bit of rough handling in outdoor settings, and its 5-watt output is more than sufficient for QRP and portable operations where local or regional communication is the goal.

Performance for Portable Ops

For activities like Summits on the Air (SOTA), where operators climb to high-altitude locations to operate, the FT-817ND has become a favorite. The combination of low power and excellent battery options allows operators to stay active for extended periods. The receiver performs well in remote areas with low noise floors, picking up signals that might be missed by other portable rigs. Audio quality is good, both on transmit and receive, though you may find external speakers or headsets a useful addition when operating in noisy environments.

Comparison with Other QRP Rigs

Compared to other QRP rigs like the Elecraft KX2 or ICOM IC-705, the FT-817ND is more basic but far more affordable. While these newer models offer advanced features like DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and touchscreens, the FT-817ND sticks to the essentials, offering a straightforward and reliable experience. If you don’t need all the bells and whistles of more modern QRP rigs, the FT-817ND is still a solid choice.

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4. Pros and Cons

Pros

• Portability: The FT-817ND is lightweight and compact, perfect for operators who enjoy QRP and field operations.
• All-Band Coverage: With access to HF, VHF, and UHF, this radio covers a wide range of frequencies, making it versatile for various types of communication.
• Multiple Modes: The radio supports SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes, allowing for flexible operation across different communication modes.
• Durable Build: The rugged construction means it can handle rough outdoor environments and still function well.

Cons

• Low Power Output: The 5-watt output is limiting for operators who prefer high-power DXing, particularly on HF bands.
• Basic Display: Compared to newer radios, the LCD on the FT-817ND is quite basic and lacks the visual clarity of modern color screens.
• Battery Life: The internal NiMH battery pack has limited life, often requiring external battery solutions for extended operation.
• No Built-In Antenna Tuner: While not a deal-breaker, the lack of a built-in tuner means you’ll need an external tuner for use with most antennas, adding to the overall equipment you’ll need to carry.

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5. Price and Value for Money

At the time of its release, the Yaesu FT-817ND was considered quite affordable for an all-band, all-mode transceiver. Today, despite newer models being available, the FT-817ND is still priced competitively, often found in the $600-$800 range (depending on condition and retailer). Considering the wide range of features packed into such a compact device, it offers excellent value for money. That being said, if you’re looking for modern features like touchscreens, DSP, or higher power output, you may want to explore newer radios, albeit at a higher price point.

For operators who prioritize portability and versatility, the FT-817ND provides a lot of bang for the buck. You’re essentially getting three radios in one (HF, VHF, and UHF), all in a package small enough to take anywhere.

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6. User Reviews and Feedback

User reviews of the Yaesu FT-817ND are overwhelmingly positive, particularly from operators who value portability and versatility. Common praise is directed at its rugged build, broadband coverage, and ability to perform in challenging field conditions. Many operators appreciate its QRP capabilities, making long-distance contacts with such low power a rewarding challenge.

Common Positive Feedback

• Ideal for portable operations such as SOTA and POTA
• Good receiver sensitivity, especially for its price range
• Lightweight and portable, making it ideal for outdoor use
• Durable and reliable in rough conditions
• Great versatility with all-band, all-mode capabilities

Common Negative Feedback

While the Yaesu FT-817ND has a strong fan base, some users have raised concerns over a few of its limitations:

• Battery life is a common complaint, especially for those using the internal NiMH battery pack. Many operators opt for external battery solutions to extend usage time.
• The 5-watt power output can be frustrating for those who are used to higher power levels. Although it’s perfect for QRP enthusiasts, it’s not ideal for making consistent DX contacts, especially during poor band conditions.
• Some users feel the display is too basic, with no backlighting for low-light operations, which can make it harder to use during night-time portable ops.
• The lack of modern features, such as built-in DSP, filters, and an internal antenna tuner, puts it at a disadvantage compared to newer transceivers.

Overall, user feedback highlights the FT-817ND’s strengths as a QRP rig that excels in portable operations. While it lacks some of the more advanced features of newer radios, most users appreciate its simplicity and durability.

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7. Final Verdict

After a detailed look at the Yaesu FT-817ND, it’s clear that this radio still holds its ground in the world of amateur radio. Its compact design, multi-band support, and all-mode capabilities make it a highly versatile radio, especially for QRP enthusiasts and operators who enjoy portable operations. Despite its low power output, it delivers solid performance in the field and has proven to be a durable and reliable rig for outdoor use.

However, the FT-817ND does have its limitations. The 5-watt power output might frustrate operators looking to make DX contacts, especially under poor band conditions, and its basic display and lack of modern features like DSP and an internal tuner might leave some wanting more. Battery life is also a known issue, but this can be mitigated with external power solutions.

If you’re looking for a rugged, all-band portable transceiver that delivers reliable performance for QRP operations, the Yaesu FT-817ND is worth considering. But if you’re after modern conveniences and more power, you might want to explore newer models like the Yaesu FT-818 or competitors like the Elecraft KX2 and ICOM IC-705. Ultimately, whether it’s worth the hype depends on your specific needs. For operators focused on portability and versatility, the FT-817ND still shines.