US
YAESU

Yaesu FT-2980R 144 MHz Mobile Transceiver 80W

  • 80 Watts RF, selectable 80/30/10/5 Watts
  • 144 MHz single band
  • No cooling fan, massive heatsink
  • 3 Watts audio output
  • 200 memory channels
  • WX alert channels
  • 3 Year manufacturer warranty

Updated 25 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.

Our verdict

A high power two meter mobile that reaches far on simplex and repeaters without a noisy fan. It covers one band only, so UHF repeaters are out of reach.

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ASIN: B075CTZGLFModel: FT-2980RCategory: Two-Way Radios

Overview

A large heatsink in place of a fan is how this Yaesu mobile delivers high output silently. Choose one of four power levels, scan memory channels with names, and the loud speaker cuts through road and engine noise.

Operators get serious transmit power for distant repeaters and simplex contacts, with silent cooling. It is two meter only, so anyone wanting UHF needs a dual band rig.

Who it's for

Rural hams far from repeaters and emergency communicators will value the power. Operators who use UHF repeaters need a dual band radio.

Pros and cons

Pros
  • High output power
  • Fanless, quiet operation
  • Named memory channels
  • Weather alert channels
Cons
  • Single band only
  • Heavy for a mobile
  • Power cable not listed

Performance notes

Reach comes from the high output feeding a good antenna, while lower power settings cut heat and current draw. The heatsink spreads heat without a fan, so it runs quietly but warms up on long transmits. Audio output is loud enough for noisy cabs.

Specifications

BrandYAESU
ModelFT-2980R
Dimensions & fit
Item Dimensions D x W x H7.3"D x 6.3"W x 2"H
Item weight4.2 pounds
Capacity & performance
Frequency Range144 MHz single band
Output power80/30/10/5 Watts
Audio output3 Watts
Warranty & support
Warranty Description3 Year Manufacturer Warranty
Other details
Tuner TypeVHF
Number of Channels200
BuiltIn MediaDTMF Direct Access Microphone
Additional FeaturesCTCSS/DCS, WX alert, dual watch, smart search, wide/narrow deviation, 4-level dimmer
Impedance50 ohm

Frequently asked questions

How large is the Yaesu FT-2980R?

7.3"D x 6.3"W x 2"H and 4.2 pounds.

Does it need a cooling fan?

No. A massive heatsink handles 80 Watts without a fan.

Is a microphone included?

Yes, a DTMF direct access microphone.

Does it cover UHF?

No. It is a 144 MHz single band transceiver.