Finding the best amateur radio go box suitable for your needs isnt easy. With hundreds of choices can distract you. Knowing whats bad and whats good can be something of a minefield. In this article, weve done the hard work for you.
Best amateur radio go box
1. Panasonic Portable AM / FM Radio, Battery Operated Analog Radio, AC Powered, Silver (RF-2400D)
Feature
RF-2400 AM/FM Analogue Tuner - Frequency Range FM 87 - 108MHz (50kHz step) AM 520 - 1730kHz (9/10kHz step)10cm Speaker and Ferrite Antenna for good sound
AUDIO SYSTEM Power Output (RMS) - 770mW (MAX), Other Power Source Battery DC - 6V (R6/LR6, AA, UM-3) x 4, AC - 120 V, 560Hz
Earphone/ Headphone (3.5mm) - yes (mini/mono)
Dimensions (W x H x D) [Approx.] 234 x 122 x 82 mm
Description
Panasonic RF-2400 AM / FM Radio, Silver2. RTL-SDR Blog V3 R820T2 RTL2832U 1PPM TCXO HF Bias Tee SMA Software Defined Radio with Dipole Antenna Kit
Feature
Includes 1x RTL-SDR Blog brand R820T2 RTL2832U 1PPM TCXO HF Bias Tee SMA Dongle (V3), 1x portable multipurpose dipole antenna set. Dipole set includes 1x dipole base with 60cm RG174, 2x 23cm to 1m telescopic antenna, 2x 5cm to 13cm telescopic antenna, 1x 3m RG173 extension cable, 1x flex tripod mount, 1x suction cup mount.Great for many applications including general radio scanning, air traffic control, public safety radio, ADSB, AIS, ACARS, trunked radio, P25 digital voice, POCSAG, weather balloons, APRS, NOAA APT weather satellites, radio astronomy, meteor scatter monitoring, DAB, or for use as a low cost panadapter with a traditional ham radio.
Several improvements over other brands including use of the R820T2 tuner, improved component tolerances, a 1 PPM temperature compensated oscillator (TCXO), SMA F connector, aluminium shielded case with thermal pad for passive cooling, activatable bias tee circuit and a much improved antenna set.
Can tune from 500 kHz to 1.7 GHz and has up to 3.2 MHz of instantaneous bandwidth (2.4 MHz stable). (HF reception below 24 MHz in direct sampling mode).
The multipurpose portable dipole kit is great for beginners! Use it either for terrestrial or satellite reception just by changing the orientation of the antenna. The mounts and extension cable allow you to temporarily place the antenna outside for improved reception.
Description
Quickstart Guide: rtl-sdr.com/QSGV3 Features Guide: rtl-sdr.com/V3
Antenna Guide: rtl-sdr.com/DIPOLE
This is an RTL-SDR blog software defined radio receiver with RTL2832U ADC chip, R820T2 tuner, 1PPM TCXO, SMA F connector and aluminium case with passive cooling. Tunes from 500 kHz to 1.7 GHz with up to 3.2 MHz (2.4 MHz stable) of bandwidth. (HF works in direct sampling mode). Perfect for use as a computer based radio scanner with free software like SDR#, HDSDR, SDR-Radio, GQRX or SDR Touch on Android. Works on Windows, OSX, Linux, Android and computers like the Raspberry Pi.
Great for many applications including general radio scanning, air traffic control, public safety, ADS-B aircraft radar, marine AIS, ACARS, trunked radio, P25/MotoTRBO digital voice, POCSAG, weather balloons, APRS, NOAA APT/Meteor M2 weather satellites, radio astronomy, DAB, or as a low cost panadapter with a ham radio.
Comes with a multi-purpose dipole antenna kit which is perfect for beginners. The short antennas are great for ADS-B, and the longer antennas work well at lower frequencies. When used in a v-dipole configuration the antenna works well for 137 MHz weather satellites and the ISS. Use in a vertical configuration for terrestrial signals. The two mounts and 3m of RG174 cable allow you to easily mount the antenna outdoors.
This model has several improvements over other brands. It uses the improved R820T2 tuner, a 1PPM TCXO, better components, a redesigned lower noise PCB, cooling improvements, extra ESD protection and an SMA F connector. It also has a software activatable bias-tee for powering LNA's and active antennas. Full info available on the improvements at goo.gl/MD12bD
For enabling HF reception below 24 MHz please see the V3 features guide: rtl-sdr.com/v3 and please feel free to contact us via Amazon messaging for technical support - we're happy to help.
3. TWAYRDIO Dual Band VHF UHF Back Pack Mobile Transceiver Built-in 12000mAh Battery Dual PTT MIC Portable Ham Amateur Radio with Software, Programming Cable, Mobile Antenna and SO239 to PL259 Adapter
Feature
Portable Two Way Radio Mobile Transceiver. The newest transceiver differs from traditional one, built-in 12000mAh Battery, so it can work continuously for 4 hours. Fill the radio up at home, then put it into backpack, take it out and have a adventure. Max output: 25W, under normal circumstances, the communication distance is about 10-15miles (according the specific environment ). Total 199 Channe.l Frequency Range: 400-470MHz, 136-174MHzMultifunction button and a DC power charing hole on the side of the radio. Multifuction: put"I" down means radio get power from the DC power adapter directly---need to connect the charging cable. Put "II"down means radio get power from the battery inside--- take the radio and go!
The Radio Mobile Transceiver built-in a mini fan and a Temperature Sensing System, so when the machine is continuously used in high power transmission, and the temperature inside the machine reaches the 45, the mini fan will open automatically, to reduce the temperature, it is more humanized.
Dual PTT function:Dual Push-To-Talk (PTT) speaker mic Communicate easily with the two easily accessible buttons. There is a Speaker Switch on the radio, built-in a speaker not only in the radio but also in the Microhone, switch the receiving sound part from radio to MIC through the Speaker Switch button on radi. More than these, plug a 3.5mm(single pin) earphone into headphone jack and make your communication more private and free your hand.
Measure: 6*8.1*1.8 inches Package including programming cable and programming software. 1*25W radio 1*SL-16 male antenna 1* dual PPT MIC. Please note . The housing is detachable and the transceiver can be used alone as a car mobile transceiver, but please consider it carefully before you take the radio apart. We are not responsible for improper operation and man-made damage
Description
Brand: TWAYRADIOThe mobile is designed to take out for adventure ! The newest transceiver differs from traditional one, because it has own battery (12000 Mah) to keep working.
Has a Dual Push-To-Talk (PTT) speaker, clear sound. Communicate easily with the two accessible buttons. You could receiving and transmitting through this microphone if you setting the menu according to the instruction
Temperature Sensing System, make your radio keep working without high temperature problem.
Equipped with DC charge hole. If the current voltage is lower than 9V, please charge via the standard 12.6V charging adapter. And when the red light turns green, it's fully charged. Low power will reduce the transmission power of the machine.
Plug a 3.5mm(single pin) earphone into headphone jack and make your communication more private and free your hand.
Specification
12A Li-ion battery
Radioator Fan
Channel Capacity: 199
Output Power: 25 W
Battery capacity: 12000 mAh
can continuously working hour for: Approx 4 Hour
The Standby TimeApprox 8 Hours
Measure: 6*8.1*1.8 inches
More Functions
Dual band:136-174MHz/400-470MHz/245MHz(Receive only)
Multi silent mode (QT/QTADT/QTXDT) 107 groups DCS/58 groups CTCSS PTT ID(Voice broadcast PTT ID)
FM Radio(87.5MHz-108MHz)
High/Low power(25W/20W)
Package including:
1* TC-C25W
1* convenient Charger
1* Car mobile charger
1* Microphone
1* Instruction
1* SL 16 Male Antenna
1*SL 16 Male to SL 16 Female Right Angle Adapter
1*Programming Cable(include software)
Notice: We would appreciate it if you would contact us to inform of any problems BEFORE leaving negative or neutral feedback. We will try our best to answer any questions or resolve any problems that may occur.
4. 5000 Weather Radio,Solar Hand Crank 5-Way Power Emergency Radio,AM/FM/Shortwave/NOAA Alert Survival Portable Radio,Power Bank USB Charger,Camping Flashlight,Reading Lamp,Headphone Jack,SOS,Compass
Feature
7 Pre-ConfiguredNOAAStations/Solid Reception on // you can switch from AM/ FM/SW to NOAA weather band to get the daily forecast quickly by rotating the knob instead of tuning up and down the dial.It has 7 programmedNOAA weather Channels and bring alerts right to keep you up to speed when there is severe weather advisory in your area.FM/AMradio gets good reception as well as shortwave stations even with the antenna down5 Power Sources & 2500mAh Solarpanel makes listening to the radio outside on a sunny day.handcrank can power the radio and also back up battery when blackout.2000mAh internal rechargable Li-ion battery can be charged by either crank handle,solar panel or Micro USB input.The included micro USB cable perfectly charge the internal battery and cellphone.Insert 3pcs AAA batteries (not included)and switch the POWER button to AAA before charging.
Handy Bright & 6 LED Bright 3W LED flashlight is very handy to light up in full darkness to keep you safe in the emergency.flip up the solar panel to become a reading lamp with built in 6 bright LEDs to illuminate your way to the bedroom at night,as well as a must-have for camp in tent outside.
&Loud SOS AlarmYour Cellphone will Never Power Off even blackout and internal Li-ion Battery outages,hand crank continuously genarate power to recharge the built-in battery and connect the included usb output charging cable for cellphone charging.allow you to make a phone call for help or get in touch with your family in emergency.The red SOS flashing beacon which is morse code and loud enough to attract the attention of would be rescuers.
,Package include Compass & Nylon Wrist Strap & Carabiner Clip for EasyCarryExtra compass attached to strap is very helpful to show you orientationwhen you get lost outside.the strip is adjustable to carry,and you can also attach the clip to your backpack for your convenience outside.we seller provide one-year warranty,reach us by support email address([email protected]) if you have any question
5. Midland MicroMobile 15W GMRS Two-Way Radio with Integrated Control Microphone
Feature
2-WAY RADIO - This 2-Way Radio features 15 High Power GMRS channels with 8 repeater channels.50-MILE RANGE - Full 15W Radio with an external magnetic mount antenna for extended range.
142 CTCSS/DCS PRIVACY CODES - The privacy codes give you up to 3,124 channel options to block other conversations.
NOAA WEATHER SCAN + ALERT - NOAA Weather Scan will automatically scan through 10 available weather (WX) band channels and locks onto the strongest weather channel to alert you of severe weather updates. NOAA Weather Alert will sound an alarm indicating that there is a risk of severe weather in your area.
INCLUDED IN THE BOX - Radio, Fully Integrated Control Microphone, Mount, Detachable Antenna with Magnetic Mount, Microphone, Microphone Holder, 12V Power Cord with Car Power Adapter, Owner's Manual, and Quick Start Guide.
6. TYT TH-9800D Plus Version Quad Band Cross-Band 50W Mobile Transceiver Vehicle Radio Amateur Base Station, Cable/Software incl
Feature
Welcome to VMUKSAN, The Latest Plus Version of TYT TH-9800D, 50W/40W Full Quad Band Dual Display FM Amateur Mobile Radio/Transceiver, A MUST HAVE For all HAMs, FUN & GREAT VALUE as BASE STATION. Size: 5.5 x 1.6 x 6.6", Weight: 2.65 lbs. Package Content: TYT TH-9800D, Mic Hanger, Power Cable, Mounting Bracket & Screws, User Manual, Programming Cable & Factory Disc.Frequency: TX: 28-29.7/50-54/144-148/420-450MHz, RX: 26-33/47-54/108-180/320-512/750-950MHz (P.S. AM mode selectable on VHF receive frequencies for Air Band reception), Output Power VHF: 50/20/10/5W UHF: 35/20/10/5W.
Features: V/V, U/U, V/U Simultaneous Receive, V+U Cross-Band Repeater, Full Dual Display and Receive, High/Mid1/Mid2/Low Power Setting, Wide/Mid/Narrow Bandwidth Selectable, CTCSS/DCS, DTMF, 2 Tone & 5 Tone, Voice Compander & Scrambler, Remote Detachable Faceplate, 809 Alphanumeric Memory Channels, SQL, Scan, TOT, Full Direct Entry Keypad Mic.
Free Programming Cable & Software DISC Included (P.S. Driver Installation NEEDED, Factory Software Download from DISC or TYT Official Website), CHIRP Software Supported (Model TYT TH-9800) for easier programming; Pair with 4 Bands antenna (Single SO-259s Connector); Operating Voltage: 13.8V (NO 24V).
One Proven Model, Lots of USERS or TURORIALS on Youtube, Google, Facebook Group. PLEASE CONTACT US AT ANY TIME IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS. WE WILL RESPONSE YOU WITHIN 24 HOURS.
7. TYT TH-8600 Mini 25 Watt Dual Band Amateur Radio Base, IP67 Waterproof Radio VHF: 144-148mhz (2m) UHF:420-450mhz (70cm) Car Mobile Transceiver with Free Cable
Feature
1.FONGHOO Official Distributor of TYT. Newest Dual Band TH-8600 Mobile Transceiver, FCC ID: POD25W-WP, Compact & Solid with Large Display (IP67 waterproof Version), Easy & Convenient for operation, User-friendly.2. Ext. Speaker & PC Programming Date Port on the back, Microphone connecter on the front, Dual Band, Dual Display, Dual Watch, Mini Unit & output 25/20 Watt, High/Mid/Low Tri-Power Setting.
3. Features: TX: VHF 144-148mhz (2m) UHF 420-450mhz (70cm); 200 Channels, 5 programmable function key, 1750/2100/1000/1450 Tone, CTCSS, DCS, 2 Tone, 5 Tone, Dimension: 107x125x45mm, Weight: 3.48lb
4. Easy programmable through Microphone, FREE software download at TYT official website. Please contact us if you have any problem ( programming, radio issue etc.)
5. Package Includes: Radio unit, DTMF microphone, mount Bracket, DC power cable, screw, user manual, programming cable
8. Ailunce HD1 DMR Radios, Dual Band GPS Handheld Two-way Radio, Waterproof IP67 FM Radio, LCD Recording SMS 3000 Channels 200000 Contacts 3200mAh (1 Pack, With-GPS)
Feature
HD1 dmr radio can communicate with other two way radio of the same frequency; compatible with Motorola Tier&; use out of the boxFPP function; you can set almost all functions with the keyboard; access to many menu settings; VFO mode; very easy to learn and use
GPS/APRS function; provides real-time location information and complete tracking feedback
3000 channels 20000 contacts; tri group call models make you call freely without the group restrictions; supports to save 32 radio ID and edit radio ID via keypad
3200mAh battery enable normal use more than 15 hours; excellent for outdoor activities in skiing; hiking; hunting
IP67 waterproof and dustproof; can be immersed in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes and can easily cope with complex outdoor environments
Dual time slot for point to point supports two group calls in one channel under direct model; supports DTMF connecting
Analog and digital combined; Cross-band send and receive; TX and RX frequencies; Channel number; 32 radio ID etc; Users can customize the side buttons according to their own habit
9. Rectangular External Communications Speaker for Ham Radio, CB & Scanners
Feature
Great sounding compact communications external speaker!Size approx. 4.5 x 2.5 x 2.25" 8 ohms.
Includes mounting bracket & hardware.
Great for CB radios, amateur Radios, two way & police scanners.
Includes cord with standard 3.5mm Plug.
10. Handheld Radio Field Guide: Front Panel Programming (FPP) Instructions for Handheld Ham Radios (HTs)
