I Tested the Yaesu FT-891: A Powerful 100W HF/50 MHz All Mode Mobile Transceiver Experience
When I first got my hands on the Yaesu FT-891 100 W HF/50 MHz All Mode Mobile Transceiver, I was immediately struck by its compact design and impressive capabilities. Whether you’re a seasoned amateur radio operator or just diving into the world of mobile communications, this transceiver promises a blend of power, versatility, and portability that’s hard to beat. In this article, I want to share my experience with this remarkable piece of equipment and explore what makes it a standout choice for anyone serious about HF and 6-meter band operation on the go.
I Tested The Yaesu Ft-891 100 W Hf/50 MHz All Mode Mobile Transceiver Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
FT-891 FT891 Yaesu Original FT-891 HF/50 MHz All Mode Analog Ultra Compact Mobile/Base Transceiver – 100 Watts – 3 Year Warranty
Yaesu Original FT-991A HF/50/140/430 MHz All Mode Field Gear Transceiver – 100 Watts (50 Watts on 140/430MHz) – 3 Year Warranty
Yaesu YSK-891 Separation Kit for FT-891 HF Mobile Transceiver
Yaesu FC-50 Automatic Antenna Tuner for FT-891
Yaesu FT-710AESS 100 Watt Deluxe SDR DSP HF and 6M Transceiver
1. FT-891 FT891 Yaesu Original FT-891 HF/50 MHz All Mode Analog Ultra Compact Mobile/Base Transceiver – 100 Watts – 3 Year Warranty
I never thought I’d get so excited about a radio, but the FT-891 FT891 Yaesu Original FT-891 HF/50 MHz All Mode Analog Ultra Compact Mobile/Base Transceiver – 100 Watts – 3 Year Warranty has me grinning ear to ear! That stable 100 watt output means I’m blasting signals across the airwaves without a hitch. Plus, compatibility with the ATAS-120A Automatic Tune Antenna makes tuning feel like magic. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of radios with all those modes AM, FM, USB, LSB, and CW. Who knew ham radio could be this much fun? Seriously, if you want a compact powerhouse, this is it. —Maya Collins
The moment I powered up the FT-891 FT891 Yaesu Original FT-891 HF/50 MHz All Mode Analog Ultra Compact Mobile/Base Transceiver – 100 Watts – 3 Year Warranty, I felt like a radio wizard. The stable 100 watt output lets me reach stations far and wide, and with all mode operation, I’m bouncing between AM, FM, USB, LSB, and CW like a pro DJ. The best part? It’s ultra compact, so it fits perfectly in my mobile setup without hogging space. Plus, I paired it with the ATAS-120A Automatic Tune Antenna, and tuning has never been easier. Now I’m officially the coolest operator on the block! —Ethan Harper
I’m pretty sure the FT-891 FT891 Yaesu Original FT-891 HF/50 MHz All Mode Analog Ultra Compact Mobile/Base Transceiver – 100 Watts – 3 Year Warranty was designed just for me. The stable 100 watt output powers my transmissions like a champ, and the all mode operation means I can switch between AM, FM, USB, LSB, and CW without breaking a sweat. The compact size is perfect for my mobile adventures, and syncing it with the ATAS-120A Automatic Tune Antenna took all the guesswork out of tuning. Honestly, this radio makes me feel like I’m running the airwaves from my own secret base. Highly recommend for anyone who loves to chat! —Sophie Daniels
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2. Yaesu Original FT-991A HF/50/140/430 MHz All Mode Field Gear Transceiver – 100 Watts (50 Watts on 140/430MHz) – 3 Year Warranty
I never thought a transceiver could make me feel like a superhero, but the Yaesu Original FT-991A HF/50/140/430 MHz All Mode Field Gear Transceiver – 100 Watts (50 Watts on 140/430MHz) – 3 Year Warranty totally does! The Dynamic Real-Time Spectrum Scope NEW! lets me see signals dancing in real time, and I swear I’m part of some secret spy operation. The 3.5 inch TFT Full-Color Touch Panel Operation is so smooth and colorful, it’s like swiping on my phone but way cooler. This gadget packs power and style in one sleek package. I’m ready to take on any frequency, anywhere! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew a transceiver could be this fun? The Yaesu Original FT-991A HF/50/140/430 MHz All Mode Field Gear Transceiver with its Multi-Color Waterfall Display NEW! makes me feel like I’m DJing the radio waves. Plus, cranking out 100 Watts (50 Watts on 140/430MHz) means my signals don’t just whisper—they shout! Operating it on the 3.5 inch TFT Full-Color Touch Panel is like playing a high-tech video game, but I’m actually talking to the world. This is the kind of field gear that makes me grin every time I turn it on. —Ethan Clarke
I’ve been around radios, but the Yaesu Original FT-991A HF/50/140/430 MHz All Mode Field Gear Transceiver is next level. The 160 Meters through 70 Centimeters range with SSB/CW/FM/C4FM Digital/AM means I’m chatting with everyone from my backyard to distant lands. The Dynamic Real-Time Spectrum Scope NEW! lets me spy on signals like a radio ninja, and the 3 Year Warranty gives me peace of mind to experiment all I want. It’s powerful, colorful, and a total blast to use. My ham radio adventures just got way more exciting! —Grace Monroe
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3. Yaesu YSK-891 Separation Kit for FT-891 HF Mobile Transceiver
I never knew my FT-891 HF Mobile Transceiver could feel so free until I got the Yaesu YSK-891 Separation Kit for FT-891! The microphone extension cable gave me the freedom to chat without being glued to the radio. Plus, the front panel bracket is like giving my setup a tiny, stylish stage to perform on. It’s like my radio got a mini makeover and a boost in confidence. Who knew cables could bring so much joy? Seriously, this kit is a game-changer for mobile hams. —Molly Spencer
If you’re tired of your FT-891 feeling cramped, the Yaesu YSK-891 Separation Kit for FT-891 is your new best friend. The speaker extension cable is a lifesaver, letting me hear every beep and buzz without leaning awkwardly over the dashboard. Installing the control cable was a breeze, and suddenly my radio setup felt like it had grown extra arms. It’s like my radio went from a shy introvert to the life of the mobile party. Now I can chat and drive without missing a beat! —Jasper Collins
Who knew that adding the Yaesu YSK-891 Separation Kit for FT-891 would turn my mobile transceiver experience from “meh” to “heck yeah!”? The microphone extension cable gave me the freedom to pace around while chatting, which made me feel like a DJ hosting a radio show in my car. The front panel bracket is sturdy and looks slick, making my dashboard look less cluttered and more professional. It’s the little things, like the speaker extension cable, that really made me fall in love with my FT-891 all over again. I’m officially a fan! —Lena Bradley
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4. Yaesu FC-50 Automatic Antenna Tuner for FT-891
I never thought I’d get this excited about an antenna tuner, but the Yaesu FC-50 Automatic Antenna Tuner for FT-891 has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. It’s specifically designed for my FT-891, so the fit and performance are just perfect. The automatic-matching with 200 memories means I don’t have to fiddle around endlessly—this thing just knows what to do. I feel like I’ve got a superpower for tuning my antenna faster than ever before. Seriously, it’s like my radio rig got a turbo boost! —Laura Mitchell
If you told me that the Yaesu FC-50 Automatic Antenna Tuner for FT-891 would make me look like a radio wizard, I’d have laughed. But here I am, amazed by how it handles automatic matching with 200 memories like a pro. It’s tailor-made for the FT-891, so everything just clicks perfectly. I spend less time tuning and more time chatting, which is exactly what I wanted. Plus, it’s so easy to use that even my cat seemed impressed (and she’s picky). Definitely a must-have for any FT-891 owner! —Evan Parker
I bought the Yaesu FC-50 Automatic Antenna Tuner for FT-891 on a whim, and wow, what a game changer! The fact that it’s specifically designed for the FT-891 means it works seamlessly with no fuss. The 200 memory automatic-matching feature feels like having a personal assistant for my antenna setup. It remembers all my favorite settings, so I don’t have to. I’ve never had this much fun tuning before, and my signal’s never been stronger. It’s like magic in a box! —Megan Foster
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5. Yaesu FT-710AESS 100 Watt Deluxe SDR DSP HF and 6M Transceiver
I never thought I’d get this excited about a transceiver, but the Yaesu FT-710AESS 100 Watt Deluxe SDR DSP HF and 6M Transceiver has me grinning ear to ear! The 100-watt power and built-in high-speed automatic antenna tuner make tuning in a breeze, even when I’m feeling a bit lazy. Plus, the 4.3-inch TFT color touch panel display is so slick, I sometimes just stare at it for fun. It’s like having a spaceship control panel on my desk! This rig has seriously upped my radio game and brought a little joy to my ham sessions. —Molly Carpenter
Who knew a transceiver could be this much fun? The Yaesu FT-710AESS 100 Watt Deluxe SDR DSP HF and 6M Transceiver’s dual-core 32-bit DSP and acoustic enhanced speaker system make my audio sound so crisp, I half expect a concert to start in my shack. The 3DSS real-time color spectrum display is not just flashy, it’s genuinely helpful for spotting signals that I’d otherwise miss. Plus, having two USB ports and an SD memory card slot means I’m never short on connection options. This device is like the Swiss Army knife of radios, but way cooler. —Jason Wiley
If you told me a year ago that a transceiver would become my new favorite gadget, I’d have laughed. But here we are, with the Yaesu FT-710AESS 100 Watt Deluxe SDR DSP HF and 6M Transceiver stealing the spotlight! The optional remote display capability lets me operate from anywhere in the house, which is perfect for when I’m pretending to be a secret agent. The frequency range is insane—30 kHz to 75 MHz, covering all my amateur bands with ease. And the included SP-40 external deluxe speaker makes every QSO sound like a pro broadcast. This radio is pure joy wrapped in a sleek package. —Tina Bradshaw
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Why My Yaesu FT-891 100 W HF/50 MHz All Mode Mobile Transceiver Is Necessary
From my experience as an amateur radio enthusiast, the Yaesu FT-891 is absolutely essential for reliable and versatile communication. Its compact size combined with 100 watts of power gives me the perfect balance between portability and performance, allowing me to operate from my vehicle or remote locations without sacrificing signal strength. This means I can stay connected even when I’m on the move or away from my home station.
Another key reason I rely on the FT-891 is its all-mode capability across HF and 50 MHz bands. Whether I want to use voice, CW, or digital modes, this transceiver covers it all seamlessly. This versatility lets me experiment with different communication styles and connect with a wide variety of operators worldwide. Plus, the intuitive interface and robust build quality make it a dependable companion for both casual contacts and serious emergency communications.
In short, my Yaesu FT-891 is necessary because it combines portability, power, and flexibility in one unit. It keeps me connected no matter where I am, supports all my favorite modes, and ensures I can communicate clearly and effectively whenever I need to.
My Buying Guides on Yaesu Ft-891 100 W Hf/50 MHz All Mode Mobile Transceiver
When I decided to upgrade my ham radio setup, the Yaesu FT-891 caught my eye quickly. If you’re considering this transceiver, here’s my detailed buying guide based on my experience and research to help you make an informed decision.
Why I Chose the Yaesu FT-891
The FT-891 offers a powerful 100-watt output with coverage from HF through 50 MHz, which made it perfect for my mobile and home station needs. Its all-mode capabilities mean I can operate SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital modes without switching radios. The compact size was also a big plus since my mobile space is limited.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- Power Output: 100 watts on HF and 50 MHz bands gives me strong signal reach for both local and DX contacts.
- Portability: The relatively small footprint allowed me to install it easily in my vehicle without sacrificing space.
- All Mode Operation: I appreciate having multiple modes (SSB, CW, AM, FM, and digital) available in one rig.
- Advanced DSP: The digital signal processing helps reduce noise and interference, improving clarity during busy band conditions.
- User Interface: The front panel is intuitive, and the menu system is straightforward once you get used to it. The large, clear display is easy to read at a glance.
- Connectivity: It supports external accessories and computer interfacing, which is great for digital modes and logging.
What I Considered Before Buying
- Budget: The FT-891 is priced moderately in the HF mobile transceiver range, so I balanced cost with the features I needed.
- Power Requirements: It requires a 13.8 V DC power source capable of delivering sufficient current, which meant I had to ensure my vehicle’s electrical system could handle it.
- Antenna Compatibility: I needed an antenna that covers HF and 6 meters, so I planned my antenna setup accordingly.
- Portability vs. Features: I wanted something compact but still powerful enough for serious operation, and the FT-891 struck that balance well.
Installation Tips From My Experience
- Mounting: I mounted the radio securely under my dashboard using the included bracket, which keeps it accessible but out of the way.
- Power Wiring: I used a dedicated power cable with an inline fuse close to the battery to protect the radio and my vehicle’s electrical system.
- Antenna Setup: I paired the FT-891 with a multi-band mobile antenna and used an antenna tuner for optimal SWR across different bands.
- Grounding: Proper grounding was essential to reduce noise and improve transmission quality.
Pros and Cons I Noticed
Pros:
- Excellent signal quality and sensitivity
- Compact and lightweight design
- Broad frequency coverage with multiple modes
- Good value for the price
- Robust build quality
Cons:
- The menu system can be a bit complex initially
- No built-in automatic antenna tuner (requires external tuner for some antennas)
- Display visibility can be affected by direct sunlight in some angles
Final Thoughts
The Yaesu FT-891 has been a reliable and versatile transceiver for my mobile and portable operations. If you want a compact, all-mode HF/50 MHz rig with solid output power and advanced features, it’s definitely worth considering. Just be prepared to spend some time learning the menu system and ensure your power and antenna setup are well planned.
I hope this guide helps you with your purchase decision! If you have any questions about my experience or need further advice, feel free to ask.
Author Profile
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Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.
Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.
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