Yaesu FT-818ND Review: Is it Worth the Hype?

The Yaesu FT-818ND has become a popular choice among amateur radio enthusiasts, especially those who love outdoor operations and portability. As an updated version of the FT-817ND, this compact, all-band, and all-mode transceiver has generated a lot of excitement since its release. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or preparing for emergency communications, the FT-818ND promises to deliver reliable performance in even the most remote locations.

But is this radio truly worth the hype it’s been receiving? Many ham radio operators praise its versatility, but others feel it falls short in certain areas, such as power output and modern features. In this review, we’ll break down the key features, performance, and usability of the Yaesu FT-818ND, comparing it to other models and identifying its strengths and weaknesses. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether the FT-818ND is the right fit for your amateur radio needs.

Overview of the Yaesu FT-818ND

What is the Yaesu FT-818ND?

The Yaesu FT-818ND is a compact, all-mode transceiver designed for amateur radio operators. It operates on HF (High Frequency), VHF (Very High Frequency), and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands, covering a wide range of frequencies from 1.8 MHz to 440 MHz. This makes it ideal for those who want a versatile radio that can handle multiple modes of communication, including CW (Continuous Wave), SSB (Single Side Band), AM (Amplitude Modulation), and FM (Frequency Modulation).

Released as the successor to the popular FT-817ND, the FT-818ND maintains a similar design and functionality but includes some crucial updates. It’s a portable radio that is battery-powered, making it a great choice for field operations, mobile use, and emergency communications. Its compact size and lightweight design make it a favorite among backpackers, hikers, and those who prefer operating in remote areas where carrying heavy equipment isn’t an option.

Key Features

The Yaesu FT-818ND boasts several features that make it stand out:

• 6-Watt Power Output: One of the most notable changes from its predecessor, the FT-818ND offers a 6-watt output compared to the FT-817ND’s 5-watt output. While the increase is modest, it provides slightly more power for those in challenging environments.
• Multi-mode Operation: The radio can operate in multiple modes, including SSB, CW, AM, FM, and packet operation. This flexibility is one of its strong points, making it suitable for various communication needs.
• Built-in TCXO-9: The Temperature-Compensated Crystal Oscillator (TCXO) improves frequency stability, which is critical in maintaining high precision in challenging environments.
• Wide Frequency Coverage: The FT-818ND covers all amateur bands, including the HF, VHF, and UHF bands, making it a great all-around radio.
• Battery-Powered Design: With a NiMH (Nickel-Metal Hydride) battery, the radio is built for portable use. It’s also compatible with external power sources such as 13.8V DC.
• Compact Size: Weighing in at just 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) and with a small footprint, the FT-818ND is designed for portability without sacrificing performance.

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Performance and Build Quality

Durability and Portability

The Yaesu FT-818ND is built for those who need a reliable radio in rugged conditions. It’s designed with field use in mind, offering a solid aluminum die-cast chassis that can withstand the bumps and bruises of outdoor operation. Whether you’re using it in a vehicle or carrying it in a backpack, the radio can handle a bit of rough handling.

Portability is one of its main selling points. At only 6.5 x 1.5 x 5.3 inches, it’s compact enough to be carried on long hikes or camping trips. The NiMH battery provides decent power for portable operation, but users often carry extra batteries or connect it to a solar charger for extended use. This lightweight and durable design makes it popular among outdoor enthusiasts who need a radio that won’t weigh them down.

Transmission and Reception Quality

When it comes to performance, the FT-818ND delivers in most scenarios. The 6-watt output may not seem like much, especially compared to base station transceivers that can output 100 watts or more, but it’s more than adequate for many portable and mobile applications. With the right antenna and proper conditions, you can achieve strong contacts over long distances.

Reception is generally clear across all bands, with minimal interference in most situations. However, some users note that the low power output can be a drawback, especially in areas with poor propagation. The built-in TCXO ensures frequency stability, which is crucial when operating in SSB or CW modes where small frequency shifts can be problematic. For many operators, the radio’s ability to handle different modes while maintaining stable performance makes it a versatile choice.

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User Experience and Usability

Setup and Configuration

Setting up the Yaesu FT-818ND is relatively straightforward, even for those who are new to ham radio. The radio comes with an intuitive user manual, which guides you through the process of assembling and operating the transceiver. Configuration is as simple as connecting the antenna, selecting the band, and adjusting the settings to suit your preferences.

For experienced users, the FT-818ND offers a variety of customization options. You can fine-tune settings like power output, mode selection, and frequency, which makes it a versatile tool for those who need precise control over their transmissions. However, newer users may need some time to become familiar with the more advanced features, such as memory channels, repeater shifts, and dual VFO operation.

Interface and Controls

The interface of the FT-818ND is user-friendly, with clearly labeled buttons and knobs. The LCD screen is small but provides enough information to operate the radio effectively, displaying the selected band, mode, and other relevant settings. The backlight is also a nice touch, allowing for easier use in low-light conditions, such as nighttime field operations.

The control panel is fairly intuitive, especially for those who are used to Yaesu radios. Tuning the radio and navigating the menus is straightforward, although the small screen can make it difficult to access certain settings quickly. That said, most users appreciate the simplicity of the controls, as they allow for fast adjustments in the field without needing to scroll through complex menus.

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Key Pros and Cons

Pros

• Versatile Operation: The FT-818ND’s ability to operate on multiple bands and modes makes it a great all-purpose transceiver. Whether you’re using it for SSB, CW, or FM transmissions, the radio performs reliably in various situations.
• Compact and Lightweight: At just 1.2 kg, the FT-818ND is easy to carry during outdoor activities. Its battery-powered design further enhances its portability, making it ideal for field operations and emergencies.
• Improved Power Output: The 6-watt output provides a bit more power than the older FT-817ND, which can be beneficial when operating in difficult conditions.
• Long Battery Life: With the included NiMH battery, the radio provides several hours of continuous use. Operators can extend this with external power options, including solar panels or car batteries.

Cons

• Low Power Output: Despite the increase to 6 watts, many users feel the FT-818ND’s power output is still too low, especially for those looking for more powerful base station radios. This can make it difficult to reach distant stations or overcome poor propagation conditions.
• Outdated Features: While the FT-818ND has been upgraded in some areas, many of its features are still considered outdated by today’s standards. The lack of modern digital modes and a more robust DSP (Digital Signal Processing) system can be seen as limitations.
• Price: For the features it offers, some users feel the FT-818ND is overpriced compared to other portable transceivers on the market, especially considering its low power output and lack of advanced features.

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Comparisons to Other Models

Yaesu FT-818ND vs. Yaesu FT-817ND

The FT-818ND is essentially an updated version of the FT-817ND, with only minor differences. The most notable change is the increase in power output from 5 watts to 6 watts. Additionally, the FT-818ND includes the TCXO-9 for enhanced frequency stability, which was an optional upgrade in the FT-817ND. Aside from these updates, the two models are nearly identical in terms of size, weight, and functionality. For many operators, the FT-818ND may not be worth upgrading if they already own an FT-817ND, unless they specifically need the extra wattage or improved frequency stability.

Yaesu FT-818ND vs. Other Portable Transceivers

When compared to other portable transceivers, such as the Elecraft  KX2 or Icom IC-705, the Yaesu FT-818ND falls a bit short in some areas. The Elecraft KX2, for example, is known for its compact design, modern features, and excellent receiver performance, making it a preferred option for many operators looking for high-end portable transceivers. The Icom IC-705, while more expensive, offers higher output power (10 watts) and includes more modern digital features, such as D-STAR and built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, which are lacking in the FT-818ND.

However, the FT-818ND stands out for its rugged build and proven reliability in the field, which some users prefer over more delicate, feature-rich models. Additionally, the FT-818ND’s price point, though high for its power output, is still more affordable than some of its competitors like the Icom IC-705, making it a reasonable choice for operators on a budget who prioritize durability and multi-mode capabilities over advanced digital features.

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Who Should Buy the Yaesu FT-818ND?

The Yaesu FT-818ND is ideal for a specific group of amateur radio operators. If you’re someone who values portability, durability, and multi-mode versatility, the FT-818ND is an excellent choice. It’s particularly well-suited for operators who enjoy field operations, portable SOTA (Summits on the Air) activities, or emergency communication setups, where compact size and battery-powered operation are essential.

For those who prioritize long-distance communication or are looking for higher power output, this radio may not meet your expectations. However, it performs exceptionally well in low-power (QRP) operations, and with a good antenna setup, it’s capable of solid performance even with its limited wattage. Additionally, if you’re operating in remote areas, where access to external power sources is limited, the 6-watt power output is often sufficient, especially for short- to medium-range communications.

Operators who already own an FT-817ND may find the upgrade to the FT-818ND less compelling, given the minimal improvements. However, if you’re new to portable ham radio or need a rugged, reliable transceiver for outdoor use, the FT-818ND could be a solid investment.

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Conclusion

The Yaesu FT-818ND offers a rugged and versatile solution for portable and field ham radio operations. Its compact size, multi-band capability, and ability to operate in a variety of modes make it a versatile tool for amateur radio enthusiasts, particularly those who engage in QRP (low-power) operations or need a reliable transceiver for backpacking, SOTA, or emergency communications.

While it may not feature the latest digital modes or higher power output of some competing transceivers, it performs well in its intended niche. The 6-watt output, improved TCXO frequency stability, and long battery life make it a reliable option for operators who value portability and simplicity.

Ultimately, the FT-818ND is best suited for users who need a durable, portable transceiver and don’t mind its limitations in power and modern features. For those users, it certainly lives up to the hype. However, others may want to explore higher-powered or more feature-rich alternatives.