Would love to see an updated G90 with a little larger screen and 6m with 50 to 100 Watts. I think at their price points it would be a killer setup with that tuner.
Yes I agree about the 891 and for the price with a capability of 100 watts. I also have an ft710 and I wouldn't want to hike very far. I like how the 891 is analog without all the SDR. I wonder if they will make another hf mobile that would be around the same price but have a built in tuner. I think whatever they come out in the future will be at least a couple hundred dollars more at least. Lol guess I'm in love with my 891 as it was my first HF transceiver that I had about 2 months before I got my general and transmitted on 10 meters and listened on other bands.
I agree with Stuart. There are soo many QRP radios on the market and I think QRP is a niche market. 100 Watt portable is what I am looking for. And before someone says you can do just as much with 5 watts then let me ask you: Why do radio stations not use 5 watts? Answer: Because 100 watts is better and 1000 watts is better then 100 because conditions are rarely perfect for that 5 watts to achieve reliable distance.
I worked 37 states with a HW 8 and 2 watts before I moved. Is 100 watts necessary? Sometimes. if portable is what you are doing the battery life can be hours with qrp. Depends on what you want. Qrp is a challenge. Why do some people prefer to fly fish?
When I got my ham licence 4 years ago I bought an 891as my first HF radio. Never been sorry it was my first and it could easily with an external radio be a shack radio as well. Ive had to focus on tuned anntennas for portable operating. My favorite operating at home is the 891 on the picnic table with a battery and a portable antenna.
Same. I ordered the 891 from HRO in 2021 after I got my license to entice me to get my General (it worked). I found an 857 on marketplace about the same time & the seller met me at HRO and I got to test it on the bench & left the store with both radios. Three years later, No regrets. For under $1300 I got two of the best portable rigs.
Portable isn’t “just portable”-backpack portable FT891-nothing else new in that size at 100w.Remember you need a battery too.Everything else is only car portable in my eyes 😊
It's a shame he limited it to currently-produced radios. The FT-857 is really similar to the 891 but it's all-band and all-mode. It's a really great radio and, unlike some radios in this list, really is easily portable.
The new FTX-1F is the future (or at least it should be). A system of modular radio components that clip together depending on what you need. The basic FTX-1F unit is a QRP rig. Clip on another component and you just added a 100W body with tuner. No need to have additional R&D costs when the control head can be the same.
The Xiegu G90 has a killer tuner, I've heard it said many times that it will tune just about anything. K8MRD did a video where he took a G90 out to see what random thing it could tune... shopping cart, telephone pole guy wire/cable, chain link fence and a parking lot light pole. Not only did the G90 tune those up, Mike made contacts on each one. The G90 needs to be updated or have a version with 100 watts, if not that, at least 50watts... I would buy a 100w G90 in a heart beat.
I have the 991 and 891, my 7100 gave up the ghost, my error, I would love another, you leave the body in your pack and the head is in hand. You got it right about the sound card and tuner .
My ICOM IC7100 is only 5lbs. Has 100w, a Remote Head, HF/VHF/UHF also built-in Digital Voice and data as well as GPS, DPRS and only $700 used or 8-900$ new. 🎉
Your description of these radios raise a question that I'd forgotten I had. What good is a radio without a tuner? And if you're describing sizes of radios that need to be carried around, how big is the tuner and how does that contribute to the size and weight of the package that I need to carry? (Obviously I don't have any experience with separate tuners)
I know you pitched this as 100 watt radios, but FWIW, none of the radios in this round-up fall into the category of what I need in a portable HF radio. I don't often do SOTA activations, but my favorite and most common use case is very SOTA-like. I like to get miles into the backcountry, at the best elevation advantage I can get, essentially combining backpacking with ham radio. The closest radio on this list is the FT-891. That comes in at 67 oz but that is before adding a battery. I limit my base weight to 10 lbs. Since my backpacking kit is made up of carefully selected ultralight choices, where every ounce matters, I have managed to carve out a budget of 50 ounces (3 lbs 2 oz) to devote to radio gear and still maintain my base weight. Currently. I use the Lab599 TX-500 along with the BP500 battery. Together, these weigh 32 oz. My Yaesu VX-6 with Smiley antenna system weighs 13 oz. So, I have 5 oz remaining from which to select a single HF antenna that will not require a tuner. I have a few to choose from depending on the band in which I plan to operate. Now, if I can find a lighter HF radio, or replace my VX-6 with something that is lighter, and still have the excellent durability, water resistance, performance of these radios, that would be a massive win. I could then make a choice between lowering my total base weight (always desirable) or bringing antennas that are currently too heavy for my use case. 10 lb+ radios are not a big deal when portable means parking lot to picnic table. But when you have it on your back for 8 hours a day, every ounce matters. I sometimes run into other hams in the back country, almost always with altoids tin sized CW rigs. I operate data and voice. So maybe my use case falls into such a small sliver of the market that I will never see better rugged ultra-lightweight options - but here is hoping.
I was thinking along the same lines watching this video. I did a POTA data activation this summer while backpacking and my setup was also right at 3lbs. Anything more than that just seems like too big of a weight penalty in the backcountry and a lot of the SOTA CW ultralights would be balking at even 3lbs.
On my base station at the moment, I am running the Icom IC-705 driving the Xiegu XPA125B. The total weight of the two is 8.26 pounds. A tuner is built into the XPA125B. I was thinking of building a go box for the two. Use it for mobile and portable. Mobile would not be permanent. 160m through 70cm. All the modes. Josh, you like to be different, me too!
Even though its not still in production a Yaesu 450D is a really good radio, I was able to pick one up still new in the box for 525.00 and I think its more than portable!
Yes I used my kenwood ts480, 100 watt, for years, very nice connection made. I now have a Xiegu G90 20 watt easy to carry for portable use. Yes and real difference between 100w and 20 w sometimes you have a qso and sometimes not. That is qrp. if you now look at K4OGO what he comes up with his xiegu also nice qso's. Ron, Pd3ron
I own both the FT-710 and FT-891. Since I'm 100% POTA, I prefer the FT-710 as the main radio. If I'm going to work from within the car at the park, I use the FT-891.
Great video Jason. Personally, I like to see a IC-7100 updated with a color touch screen display in the form factor of a Yaesu FT-891. I do realize it would have to be larger but would prefer it smaller than the IC-7300.
6 pounds or less, easy to operate, 12v , BNC antenna jack on the front, 100 watt adjustable to 1W, A2 carry handle, USB and Bluetooth capability, all mode 80-6 meters. Removable integrated battery pack, jack stands, built in tuner, diode tx/rx switching, Diode band switching for ALE, and snap on front panel protector and waterproof container.
Small nit-pick - the FT-710 Field doesn't come with a handle (but it's only $15). Thanks for the discount code on the coax, I'll put it to good use today.
Great video and you got it right in that what is "portable" is going to vary from one person to another. For me it's that 891/857/897 kind of shape or weight where I think the gap is. All the bigger rigs are great at what they do, but I wouldn't to carry one in a pack several times a week. I think the trend towards bigger, fancier displays on front panels may mean we don't see a 100W rig in the form factor I am looking for again from Yaecomwood, whether or not it is HF+6 or HF/VHF/UHF.
Thanks Jason for all your valuable info. My two cents. I've done POTA with both FT-710 and an Ft-891. Hands down 891 is preferable. For a couple reasons, when your activating POTA/SOTA your the target, hunters and chasers are finding you not the other way around so you don't need as much radio. Plus out in the sunny weather you can't see the screen of the 710. For packing and hiking, the 891 is smaller, lighter and its cheaper. Put some guard rails on that baby and you're good to go. Just my two cents. N2JIM
i think the answer actually lies not in a new radio but an optional addition to the IC-705 or the new yaesu ftx-1f, a 100 (or 200) watt amp with a built in tuner (and possibly an antenna that matches) that can live in the car. that way i can do qrp/sota and use it in the car too
18:06 I got the 991A based on the fact that it had everything I need on paper. When I first got it, I didn’t really love it. But once I got to know the radio you just can’t beat it. The only two radios in your whole list that I would even consider is the 991A and the FT-981 (if I was to forgo vhf/uhf).
I’m a big fan of the Yaesu FT-891. It’s definitely solid and works great in a vehicle. Pairs nicely with the ATAS. But what’s the “best” radio? Purely subjective. It’s about what’s the best radio for *you*. When considering a radio, explore your needs and what you want to do. Great reviews as always, Jason. Always appreciate your insight. ❤ from MN, KF0QNM.
I have to agree. I am currently air traveling with my 7300 in a HF hard case. Pain in the backside. We need more smaller form factor radios in this space.
How many DB gain do you get with the power and what's the equivalent antenna you need to carry. I actually see a reason for higher output radios. But there also could likely be higher gain antennas made that are more portable I would guess.
The mic plosives are painful. Great audio setup that’s suffering at the last few bits of setup. So much great content here. I hope the mic setup gets fixed so it’s not distracting from all the good stuff happening here.
I have the FT-891, and wish it didn't draw so much power. I like the 891's big screen vs. the tiny screens the Yaesu's used to have. Kind of like looking at a UV-5R display. 😂 Wish it had UHF/VHF, but only to play ssb...I'd prefer FM repeater/simplex to be run from a separate rig and/or HT. Lack of tuner and soundcard solved by LDG and Digirig for me, but it would be cool to have it all built in. But then it becomes a 1,600 dollar rig. 😢 I keep hoping the stuff the Chinese are putting out will spur the Japanese manufacturers to up their game, but sure don't see it happening yet! A 50-100 watt rig from Xiegu might just do the trick. Cool video, Jason...waving at you from N. Riverside and Western Center. 😉 73, Brett K5WXP
I think your video addresses an interesting point in that portable is somewhat subjective, but I also think, when we talk about market gaps, I think we also need to talk about the Philosophy of Use for said market. Even if there were 50 'portable' 100W radios on the market, you still have to power the thing. So, if the people asking for these are thinking they are going to have a manpack shack in the woods with all the watts, there are other logistics that come into play that will also impact portability. Also, some of these companies that make QRP radios also make 'portable' amplifiers...maybe that is a better solution based on PoU. So often we as HAMs want 'all the things' but don't know why. Always start with the why.
what would you be using, for tuner and power supply for these in a portable type scenario/setting, that are without inbuilt tuner & on a desk use the larger filtered power supplies? 1 e.g. in vehicle 2 e.g. in backpack
Ft100D Ft817nd Ft991a (emcom pack) Ft710 Ftdx10 Ftdx101mp And the one I used the most is the G90 I have used the 991a for emergency coms and cadet training plus raynet events
@@HamRadio2 I would really like a radio with hf/vhf/uhf all mode. It would be convenient to have. When in the field, it would be nice to have vhf/uhf without having to carry an extra radio and power. Although, I already carry two 10 amp hour batteries.
I love the 7300! It fits in my Explorer bag, even when wrapped in a Domke protector and with Portable Zero rails. The 891 is my mobile unit married to an ATAS 120 and running off of lithium batteries. Whenever I'm particularly lazy, I'll just pull into a park entrance and set up there under a tree. K1DLA
You are 100% right about the gap in the market being the 891 form factor radios. FTX-1F is head to head competition for the IC-705 so the small 100 watt form factor is where Yaesu is currently king.
Great discussion. Yaesu simply needs to update the 891 with a color screen. Xiegu could bump the G90 to 100 watts and be the POTA machine! I'm sure both will happen in time. 73
I’m actually not sure it needs to be color, just higher resolution. Monochrome screens do have a significant advantage for power consumption and awkward lighting visibility (sunlight glare and the like). The Lab599 TX-500 has a monochrome display that’s still surprisingly functional, and I think an FT-891 update could still go that route.
@@FunInSC but that’s what a QRP rig is for. If I want 100W then I’m fine with a 1A current draw on receive. Hat tip to you on the built-in sound card, that would be nice. However a DigiRig is pretty darned small.
I just got my license in June (tech to extra in 10 days) and I love my FT710, but yeah that FTX-1F is my #1 wishlist item lol. I currently don't have anything mobile aside from the baofeng GT-5R, so this is the perfect video for a newer ham like me! K4QSWY and 73
I bought the FT-710 Field when the they had the sales for Hamvention. I have been happy with it for portable. It is still bigger than my FT- 857D. I was going to get a FT-891 but with the sale on the FT-710, it was hard to pass up. I would like to see Yaesu take the FTX-1 head and make a FT-857D style radio.
The FT-710 and IC-7300 are only “carry from your car to a picnic table” “””portable”””. They’re definitely not “carry in a backpack” portable. I did haul an FT-991A up a fire tower once, which worked but even that much was a bit of a pain. The gap in the market is definitely in figuring out how to fit an internal tuner into the same size and weight as the FT-891 while also updating it to have a higher-resolution display to provide a more useful band scope as well as better-designed menus. The other thing that needs to happen, both for a 100W rig that size as well as ALL QRP radios is they need to have some decent degree of sealing for water and dust resistance. The Lab599 is still the only game in town there, which is insane.
They need a pota radio that is relatively small with computer interface for logging and FT8, 100W. Minimal band scope is fine and good NR with tuner. Currently I'm using my old 7300 and would like something 2 to 3lbs lighter and generally smaller. Skip the built in battery.
The one aspect that is missing from your list is how large is the current draw for these radios. Granted transmitting 100w with any radio is going to draw around 20A or more, but what's intriguing is how much power is consumed on the receive side. The Yaseu FTDX10 draws over 2A on receive. Yikes! Not only will your backpack get heavy carrying a large rig, but a larger battery will be required also. I believe the FT-891 draws about 1 amp and the 710 about 1.2A on receive. The Icom 7300 is about an amp and so is the 7100. Why the heck is the FTDX10 over 2A on receive? That will suck down a battery twice as fast as most of the others. Not good for field work.
I'm still rockin the old IC-706MKIIG as well as an old SGC SG 2020 for pure QRP work. I have purchased the Xiegu G90 because "why the heck not", right? Its sort of like my mom told my dad (about guns) one time... "you can't shoot 'em all at one time, now can ya?!? My answer is; to leave the shack radio in the shack, take your field rig with you (but keep it dry). Yep, choices-choices-choices. Nice take on things. 73!
FT-991A Replaced the FT-847 - HF+V+U Satellite Radio / Full Duplex Cross Band - both of which are too big as a portable radio even though my FT-847 has been to many Field Days as the #2 Radio. Yaesu FTX-1FF is a FT-818 / 817 replacement I think a newer version of the FT-891 based on the FTX-1FF Color Display with Waterfall. 100 Watts, USB Radio Card, and a Bluetooth for a headset would be nice.
The best ones are with the lowest power consumption. Elecraft KX2, KX3 are unbeatable though not 100W, I prefer them. These are actually fantastic for POTA.
Hey Jason, the 991a is my go to portable, in a back pack!!, i have the 891, n plan to buy another 991a and 891 b4 end of year both are hero level, my 7100 stays in its box, love my 897d but use it less, n have a 710 but not used it yet!! Thx 4 another fine video , Cheers n 73
I’m beginning to get setup for POTA operation. Battery (s) are a big part of this. Have you ever done any research into testing a battery’s health and capability? I know the simple DC measurements but isn’t there a tool or something to do a real load test? And something not breaking the bank.
FT-891 is what I'm aiming for as my portable HF rigs. Low power consumption on receive. I intend on at least 2, maybe 3, as I'm building for EmComm. One for TTY, one for SSB, and one for Winlink. If one goes down, the weakest service shuts down in favor what's in need. Still deciding on VHF / UHF. I can only do a little each month with my budget. Next month is solar panels... We relied on redundant backup when working in MATCU. (Marine Air Traffic Control Unit.) It's a lesson that stuck. I hope to have the bare necessities for Winter Field Day in a few months. I'm close.
It's too bad you limited yourself to radios currently in production because the FT-857D is the best portable 100w radio. It actually is compact unlike a couple rigs on this list. It's similar to the 891 but throws in 2m/70cm and can even listen to some additional bands like commercial FM and airband. It's a really great performer, always impresses me every time I take it out. I got mine almost by accident, a club member was selling one for $400 and it was too cheap not to buy it. It's now my favorite portable radio and gets more use than radios I paid a lot more money for.
I only ever operated on 10 watts max with my ic 705. Is there so much difference going to 100 watts? I mostly use cw and winlink and get all the contacts i want/ hear.
Put the G90 tuner in the 891 and that would do it. My true 100 watt portable is my 891. I have an IC-7200 in a go box but wouldn't carry it far. POTA friends use the FTDX10 and 991A but not for backpack use. A radio similar in size to the 891 but with an internal tuner would be what I would like to see. I know, resonant antennas don't need a tuner. I like to use shorter multi band antennas when portable. An EF 41 footer works for me. Steve, k7ofg.
Bring back the damn 857. I have a 6000r and an 891 both for SOTA. It’s depressing to me that there used to be a singular radio that could have offered GREATER capabilities than BOTH of my radios. Seems like a heartless cash-grab to me. “Why sell one great radio when we could sell two good ones?!”
You know, there's a case to be made for a portable rig like FX-4CR. I just got a new mk III version - it's tiny, 20 watts, does all modes on 80-6m, *plus* bluetooth audio and serial/C-IV control (USB too) , enabling FT8 on you Android phone or tablet. It has a few quirks, but only outside of the ham bands. The receiver is excellent. And it's just flat out cool. The screen is tiny, but still presents everything you need. I can read it fine with my lousy eyes. It's not 100 watts, but it's not QRP either. 20 watts is useful enough. 100 watt rigs used portable are only as useful as how large of a battery you're willing to lug around.
I bought a used IC-7100 back in July. There's one common complaint about the radio and it's low power output on SSB. It's very hard to drive the radio to get maximum power output. The most I've seen was 60 to 70w max. It works great on data modes, just under preforming compared to the 7300. One has to run some more ALC to get to the power level one wants to operate at. I wouldn't recommend the IC-7100 has a portable radio. The control head being separate from the body can be a bit annoying, especially if one wants to keep things simple.
I think the FTX-1F and a 100-125w amp is going to be popular. As you see some of these radios mentioned are remote head anyway. There isn’t much difference with this arrangement of an external amp.
I have a ft857d and sent it for repair due to the display started to change color. It stopped working..the tech replaced the display but it would not turn on. wondering if the replacement piece was broken
I would never have thought to take my IC-7300 out in a backpack although I have taken it car camping with the Apache case you mentioned (which btw SAVED it from a nasty fall onto a gravel parking lot in Central Oregon). Apart from anything else you need to factor in the added weight and size of the battery to power it for a decent amount of time. So I like the idea, but not so sure about hiking for miles with one into the backcountry. Anyway, thanks for this as it's a subject I've been considering, albeit not specifically for 100W radios, nor QRP rigs either.
To answer your end question, something from icom that is basically a 'field'/backcountry-sized version of the 7300 seems logical. Maybe with 2 and 70 added.
I agree that Yeasu needs to bring back a QRP radio to replace the 818 and there needs to be a portable radio in the 100 w range. Coming from a military background where you have teams that would be doing this, as a private citizen I would like a light radio that is in the 20w to 100w that is all mode, all band with or with out a waterfall. Plus with the other thngs you need to get on the air then, Yes it may not be cheap but if it will do these things I will buy it and I think any former military as amature hams would do the same.
19:22 I feel that this is the real definition of portable. Just because a radio is portable enough that I can take it in a vehicle doesn’t really make it portable.
People need to remember, the smallest is not THE best for portable. The best and very compact would be a Elecraft KX3 w/amp. But that's $3k easy. The IC-7300 is pretty portable I'd say, will run on a battery and has an ATU built in. Next up for me would be a IC-7100 (if you need VHF/UHF). Both of those support Digital modes BUILT in. The 891 is pretty compact and the 991 but both of them require extra accessories to use digital modes. SO you could add the 710 to the mix. My choice would be 7300 all day long. My 705 is great, but more watts would be nice.
Big Yaesu fan. I have 5 hand helds and an FT6000 for QTH. But debating on either saving some money and get the G90 or spend a bit more and go with the 891 at 100W. Not worried about 2m and 70cm not on the 891. Not too many on 6m either around here. Mostly 10.
I have a Yaesu FT-710, I took it to the park with me, but it's big and not super portable. I had to put it into APACHE 4800 case to keep it safe, and I would not take that to do the SOTA for sure lol.
I would like Kenwood to come out with a competitive to 891 but with some added features like Bluetooth detachable head, color touch screen (which still makes it 1 piece unit) and a built in tuner and upgraded filters. Keep the price around or under 1k. Since you stressed the word portable I would like to see a TRUE base station not a portable used as a base, I’ll let you include the 991A as a base
For me, weight (or lack of) would be the most important factor in my decision for a 'portable.' With the exception of those people who love doing QRP, I don't see the point of them. If I want to do QRP, I'd just buy a full powered radio and then dial back the RF output down to 5-15 watts.
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At less than 5 pounds, IMO, the Yaesu FT-891 is the winner. Great video, thanks and 73 de WA3RSL
FT-891 is an ancient design..
Icom needs to release an Amp for the IC-705
Would love to see an updated G90 with a little larger screen and 6m with 50 to 100 Watts. I think at their price points it would be a killer setup with that tuner.
Great idea. I was thinking that myself. Perfect size, built-in tuner, removable fascia and so on.
I was thinking the same thing. One with an included battery and 6 meters
just get the FT-710
@@CD-W0DOSit’s literally close to 3x the price. The price has gone up $100 24 hours after this video went up.
This, but also all band and all mode.
The 891 is the secret sauce and I hope the manufacturers are working on getting more offerings for that niche.
Yes I agree about the 891 and for the price with a capability of 100 watts. I also have an ft710 and I wouldn't want to hike very far. I like how the 891 is analog without all the SDR. I wonder if they will make another hf mobile that would be around the same price but have a built in tuner. I think whatever they come out in the future will be at least a couple hundred dollars more at least. Lol guess I'm in love with my 891 as it was my first HF transceiver that I had about 2 months before I got my general and transmitted on 10 meters and listened on other bands.
I agree with Stuart. There are soo many QRP radios on the market and I think QRP is a niche market. 100 Watt portable is what I am looking for. And before someone says you can do just as much with 5 watts then let me ask you: Why do radio stations not use 5 watts? Answer: Because 100 watts is better and 1000 watts is better then 100 because conditions are rarely perfect for that 5 watts to achieve reliable distance.
I worked 37 states with a HW 8 and 2 watts before I moved. Is 100 watts necessary? Sometimes. if portable is what you are doing the battery life can be hours with qrp. Depends on what you want. Qrp is a challenge. Why do some people prefer to fly fish?
When I got my ham licence 4 years ago I bought an 891as my first HF radio. Never been sorry it was my first and it could easily with an external radio be a shack radio as well. Ive had to focus on tuned anntennas for portable operating. My favorite operating at home is the 891 on the picnic table with a battery and a portable antenna.
i use my 891 portable as well as in the shack. It's been a shack pony lately. It's a great radio. I'm looking at the icom ic 7300 and ic 718.
Same.
I ordered the 891 from HRO in 2021 after I got my license to entice me to get my General (it worked).
I found an 857 on marketplace about the same time & the seller met me at HRO and I got to test it on the bench & left the store with both radios.
Three years later, No regrets. For under $1300 I got two of the best portable rigs.
Portable isn’t “just portable”-backpack portable FT891-nothing else new in that size at 100w.Remember you need a battery too.Everything else is only car portable in my eyes 😊
It's a shame he limited it to currently-produced radios. The FT-857 is really similar to the 891 but it's all-band and all-mode. It's a really great radio and, unlike some radios in this list, really is easily portable.
@@alexharker7223also only draws 0.6A receive
Love my yaesu FT 891
The new FTX-1F is the future (or at least it should be). A system of modular radio components that clip together depending on what you need. The basic FTX-1F unit is a QRP rig. Clip on another component and you just added a 100W body with tuner. No need to have additional R&D costs when the control head can be the same.
Dang it!! Stop reading my mind! I just was looking at getting a 100 watt radio for POTA.
FT-891 is the way to go! You won't be disappointed
@@wildcatcomms that's exactly the direction I was thinking. The 7300 was also in the running.
The Xiegu G90 has a killer tuner, I've heard it said many times that it will tune just about anything. K8MRD did a video where he took a G90 out to see what random thing it could tune... shopping cart, telephone pole guy wire/cable, chain link fence and a parking lot light pole. Not only did the G90 tune those up, Mike made contacts on each one. The G90 needs to be updated or have a version with 100 watts, if not that, at least 50watts... I would buy a 100w G90 in a heart beat.
Tuning os not at all
@25w it's only a 1 S unit penalty..not a huge deal..
I run my 991a in my van. I have it set up so I can have it out with power on a picnic table in 3 minutes.
I would like to see a revised color screen FT891 maintaining the same dimensions.
I have the 991 and 891, my 7100 gave up the ghost, my error, I would love another, you leave the body in your pack and the head is in hand. You got it right about the sound card and tuner .
Nice rundown. What I don't understand is why Icom hasn't come out with a 706/891 sized "POTA style" radio.
Indeed
I got the idea for my 857D 117 go bag from Metro Atlanta Ham Radio! then built myself a $35 Pota Performer by KJ6ER.
FT-450D perfect for POTA & portable still a lot available great little RADIO.
Excited to watch because this is the direction I'm trying to go!
My ICOM IC7100 is only 5lbs. Has 100w, a Remote Head, HF/VHF/UHF also built-in Digital Voice and data as well as GPS, DPRS and only $700 used or 8-900$ new. 🎉
Who selling them for under $1000 new ? I have a friend wanting one
Your description of these radios raise a question that I'd forgotten I had. What good is a radio without a tuner? And if you're describing sizes of radios that need to be carried around, how big is the tuner and how does that contribute to the size and weight of the package that I need to carry? (Obviously I don't have any experience with separate tuners)
I know you pitched this as 100 watt radios, but FWIW, none of the radios in this round-up fall into the category of what I need in a portable HF radio. I don't often do SOTA activations, but my favorite and most common use case is very SOTA-like. I like to get miles into the backcountry, at the best elevation advantage I can get, essentially combining backpacking with ham radio. The closest radio on this list is the FT-891. That comes in at 67 oz but that is before adding a battery. I limit my base weight to 10 lbs. Since my backpacking kit is made up of carefully selected ultralight choices, where every ounce matters, I have managed to carve out a budget of 50 ounces (3 lbs 2 oz) to devote to radio gear and still maintain my base weight. Currently. I use the Lab599 TX-500 along with the BP500 battery. Together, these weigh 32 oz. My Yaesu VX-6 with Smiley antenna system weighs 13 oz. So, I have 5 oz remaining from which to select a single HF antenna that will not require a tuner. I have a few to choose from depending on the band in which I plan to operate. Now, if I can find a lighter HF radio, or replace my VX-6 with something that is lighter, and still have the excellent durability, water resistance, performance of these radios, that would be a massive win. I could then make a choice between lowering my total base weight (always desirable) or bringing antennas that are currently too heavy for my use case. 10 lb+ radios are not a big deal when portable means parking lot to picnic table. But when you have it on your back for 8 hours a day, every ounce matters. I sometimes run into other hams in the back country, almost always with altoids tin sized CW rigs. I operate data and voice. So maybe my use case falls into such a small sliver of the market that I will never see better rugged ultra-lightweight options - but here is hoping.
I was thinking along the same lines watching this video. I did a POTA data activation this summer while backpacking and my setup was also right at 3lbs. Anything more than that just seems like too big of a weight penalty in the backcountry and a lot of the SOTA CW ultralights would be balking at even 3lbs.
On my base station at the moment, I am running the Icom IC-705 driving the Xiegu XPA125B. The total weight of the two is 8.26 pounds. A tuner is built into the XPA125B. I was thinking of building a go box for the two. Use it for mobile and portable. Mobile would not be permanent. 160m through 70cm. All the modes. Josh, you like to be different, me too!
Even though its not still in production a Yaesu 450D is a really good radio, I was able to pick one up still new in the box for 525.00 and I think its more than portable!
Yes I used my kenwood ts480, 100 watt, for years, very nice connection made.
I now have a Xiegu G90 20 watt easy to carry for portable use. Yes and real difference between 100w and 20 w sometimes you have a qso and sometimes not. That is qrp.
if you now look at K4OGO what he comes up with his xiegu also nice qso's.
Ron, Pd3ron
I own both the FT-710 and FT-891. Since I'm 100% POTA, I prefer the FT-710 as the main radio. If I'm going to work from within the car at the park, I use the FT-891.
Great video Jason. Personally, I like to see a IC-7100 updated with a color touch screen display in the form factor of a Yaesu FT-891. I do realize it would have to be larger but would prefer it smaller than the IC-7300.
I love the 7100 as my POTA rig. Great radio!
6 pounds or less, easy to operate, 12v , BNC antenna jack on the front, 100 watt adjustable to 1W, A2 carry handle, USB and Bluetooth capability, all mode 80-6 meters. Removable integrated battery pack, jack stands, built in tuner, diode tx/rx switching, Diode band switching for ALE, and snap on front panel protector and waterproof container.
Small nit-pick - the FT-710 Field doesn't come with a handle (but it's only $15). Thanks for the discount code on the coax, I'll put it to good use today.
Great video and you got it right in that what is "portable" is going to vary from one person to another. For me it's that 891/857/897 kind of shape or weight where I think the gap is. All the bigger rigs are great at what they do, but I wouldn't to carry one in a pack several times a week. I think the trend towards bigger, fancier displays on front panels may mean we don't see a 100W rig in the form factor I am looking for again from Yaecomwood, whether or not it is HF+6 or HF/VHF/UHF.
Thanks Jason for all your valuable info. My two cents. I've done POTA with both FT-710 and an Ft-891. Hands down 891 is preferable. For a couple reasons, when your activating POTA/SOTA your the target, hunters and chasers are finding you not the other way around so you don't need as much radio. Plus out in the sunny weather you can't see the screen of the 710. For packing and hiking, the 891 is smaller, lighter and its cheaper. Put some guard rails on that baby and you're good to go. Just my two cents. N2JIM
What would the power cell / battery weigh and which one would last the longest in a field situation.
i think the answer actually lies not in a new radio but an optional addition to the IC-705 or the new yaesu ftx-1f, a 100 (or 200) watt amp with a built in tuner (and possibly an antenna that matches) that can live in the car. that way i can do qrp/sota and use it in the car too
18:06 I got the 991A based on the fact that it had everything I need on paper. When I first got it, I didn’t really love it. But once I got to know the radio you just can’t beat it. The only two radios in your whole list that I would even consider is the 991A and the FT-981 (if I was to forgo vhf/uhf).
I’m a big fan of the Yaesu FT-891. It’s definitely solid and works great in a vehicle. Pairs nicely with the ATAS.
But what’s the “best” radio? Purely subjective. It’s about what’s the best radio for *you*.
When considering a radio, explore your needs and what you want to do.
Great reviews as always, Jason. Always appreciate your insight.
❤ from MN, KF0QNM.
The 857d was the best size plus it did hf, vhf, uhf. Since it isnt available id go with the 991a. Be prepared to feed it power though.
I have to agree. I am currently air traveling with my 7300 in a HF hard case. Pain in the backside. We need more smaller form factor radios in this space.
In my opinion the IC-7100 is the best portable. FT-857 / Atas-120 is one of the best mobile radio / antenna combo.
How many DB gain do you get with the power and what's the equivalent antenna you need to carry. I actually see a reason for higher output radios.
But there also could likely be higher gain antennas made that are more portable I would guess.
I like my Alinco DX-70TH. Easy to use, small form factor, effective portable hF setup.
The mic plosives are painful. Great audio setup that’s suffering at the last few bits of setup. So much great content here. I hope the mic setup gets fixed so it’s not distracting from all the good stuff happening here.
I love my FT-710 Field. It’s only car-to-picnic table portable, in my opinion. I’m very interested in Yaesu’s new QRP radio.
I'm a car-to-picnic table operator as well, “C2PT” could be a new category.
Some of my POTA operations are cab tailgate. Although I have been sitting in the cab running the radio and I would do it with my 710.
Love my FT-857 but without the ground wire connected it's only 20 watts. Compact, easy to use but for the menus, it's a great radio.
Love the 891! It’s awesome!
I have the FT-891, and wish it didn't draw so much power. I like the 891's big screen vs. the tiny screens the Yaesu's used to have. Kind of like looking at a UV-5R display. 😂 Wish it had UHF/VHF, but only to play ssb...I'd prefer FM repeater/simplex to be run from a separate rig and/or HT.
Lack of tuner and soundcard solved by LDG and Digirig for me, but it would be cool to have it all built in. But then it becomes a 1,600 dollar rig. 😢
I keep hoping the stuff the Chinese are putting out will spur the Japanese manufacturers to up their game, but sure don't see it happening yet!
A 50-100 watt rig from Xiegu might just do the trick.
Cool video, Jason...waving at you from N. Riverside and Western Center. 😉
73, Brett K5WXP
Im looking at shack radios. As well as looking at building a shack shelf for radios and building/electronics tools.
I think your video addresses an interesting point in that portable is somewhat subjective, but I also think, when we talk about market gaps, I think we also need to talk about the Philosophy of Use for said market. Even if there were 50 'portable' 100W radios on the market, you still have to power the thing. So, if the people asking for these are thinking they are going to have a manpack shack in the woods with all the watts, there are other logistics that come into play that will also impact portability. Also, some of these companies that make QRP radios also make 'portable' amplifiers...maybe that is a better solution based on PoU. So often we as HAMs want 'all the things' but don't know why. Always start with the why.
Personally, I would love if yaesu came out with a 100watt version of the ftx-1f.
I still have a FT817nd and loved it but the radio I got did not come with a cable to hook it on a power supply
what would you be using, for tuner and power supply for these in a portable type scenario/setting, that are without inbuilt tuner & on a desk use the larger filtered power supplies?
1 e.g. in vehicle
2 e.g. in backpack
Ft100D
Ft817nd
Ft991a (emcom pack)
Ft710
Ftdx10
Ftdx101mp
And the one I used the most is the G90
I have used the 991a for emergency coms and cadet training plus raynet events
Some of those are out of production and some aren't 100w, so they wouldn't count for this list
The 891 form as a shack in the box is the missing radio. With a sound card it would rock.
@@Siskiyous6 with VHF UHF it would rock even more
@@HamRadio2 I would really like a radio with hf/vhf/uhf all mode. It would be convenient to have. When in the field, it would be nice to have vhf/uhf without having to carry an extra radio and power. Although, I already carry two 10 amp hour batteries.
FT 710 is my choice. New radio design that has a top rated SDR receiver with tremendous selectivity and dynamic range.
7300, 710, and 991's are lugable rigs. We need HF/6m rigs the size of the 706/7000.
I love the 7300! It fits in my Explorer bag, even when wrapped in a Domke protector and with Portable Zero rails. The 891 is my mobile unit married to an ATAS 120 and running off of lithium batteries. Whenever I'm particularly lazy, I'll just pull into a park entrance and set up there under a tree. K1DLA
You are 100% right about the gap in the market being the 891 form factor radios. FTX-1F is head to head competition for the IC-705 so the small 100 watt form factor is where Yaesu is currently king.
Great discussion. Yaesu simply needs to update the 891 with a color screen. Xiegu could bump the G90 to 100 watts and be the POTA machine! I'm sure both will happen in time. 73
I’m actually not sure it needs to be color, just higher resolution. Monochrome screens do have a significant advantage for power consumption and awkward lighting visibility (sunlight glare and the like). The Lab599 TX-500 has a monochrome display that’s still surprisingly functional, and I think an FT-891 update could still go that route.
Just the addition of a tuner to the 891 would make it my 100% favorite HF rig. 💯
It needs a built in soundcard, a tuner, and a way to not be power hungry on receive...in other words, not an 891.
@@FunInSC but that’s what a QRP rig is for. If I want 100W then I’m fine with a 1A current draw on receive. Hat tip to you on the built-in sound card, that would be nice. However a DigiRig is pretty darned small.
Lovely cap! So clean…
I run the ft-710 in my pick up and love it!
How did you mount it?
@@TonyYarusso custom cut the center consoles open area
I just got my license in June (tech to extra in 10 days) and I love my FT710, but yeah that FTX-1F is my #1 wishlist item lol. I currently don't have anything mobile aside from the baofeng GT-5R, so this is the perfect video for a newer ham like me! K4QSWY and 73
I bought the FT-710 Field when the they had the sales for Hamvention. I have been happy with it for portable. It is still bigger than my FT- 857D. I was going to get a FT-891 but with the sale on the FT-710, it was hard to pass up. I would like to see Yaesu take the FTX-1 head and make a FT-857D style radio.
Still using my Icom 706MK11G
Love it, does it all
Hey Icom make these again?
The FT-710 and IC-7300 are only “carry from your car to a picnic table” “””portable”””. They’re definitely not “carry in a backpack” portable. I did haul an FT-991A up a fire tower once, which worked but even that much was a bit of a pain. The gap in the market is definitely in figuring out how to fit an internal tuner into the same size and weight as the FT-891 while also updating it to have a higher-resolution display to provide a more useful band scope as well as better-designed menus. The other thing that needs to happen, both for a 100W rig that size as well as ALL QRP radios is they need to have some decent degree of sealing for water and dust resistance. The Lab599 is still the only game in town there, which is insane.
They need a pota radio that is relatively small with computer interface for logging and FT8, 100W. Minimal band scope is fine and good NR with tuner. Currently I'm using my old 7300 and would like something 2 to 3lbs lighter and generally smaller. Skip the built in battery.
The 710, my only radio, POTA,and QTH. I wish there was a 710 half size 50W. Perfect QRP/base. IMO. KM4AT 73
The one aspect that is missing from your list is how large is the current draw for these radios. Granted transmitting 100w with any radio is going to draw around 20A or more, but what's intriguing is how much power is consumed on the receive side. The Yaseu FTDX10 draws over 2A on receive. Yikes! Not only will your backpack get heavy carrying a large rig, but a larger battery will be required also. I believe the FT-891 draws about 1 amp and the 710 about 1.2A on receive. The Icom 7300 is about an amp and so is the 7100. Why the heck is the FTDX10 over 2A on receive? That will suck down a battery twice as fast as most of the others. Not good for field work.
ICOM 7200 w/ears in a Harris backpack is my 100W man pack.
I'm still rockin the old IC-706MKIIG as well as an old SGC SG 2020 for pure QRP work. I have purchased the Xiegu G90 because "why the heck not", right? Its sort of like my mom told my dad (about guns) one time... "you can't shoot 'em all at one time, now can ya?!?
My answer is; to leave the shack radio in the shack, take your field rig with you (but keep it dry). Yep, choices-choices-choices.
Nice take on things. 73!
FT-991A Replaced the FT-847 - HF+V+U Satellite Radio / Full Duplex Cross Band -
both of which are too big as a portable radio even though my FT-847 has been to many Field Days as the #2 Radio.
Yaesu FTX-1FF is a FT-818 / 817 replacement
I think a newer version of the FT-891 based on the FTX-1FF
Color Display with Waterfall. 100 Watts, USB Radio Card, and a Bluetooth for a headset would be nice.
The best ones are with the lowest power consumption. Elecraft KX2, KX3 are unbeatable though not 100W, I prefer them. These are actually fantastic for POTA.
I also run the 480 HX in my truck
Hey Jason, the 991a is my go to portable, in a back pack!!, i have the 891, n plan to buy another 991a and 891 b4 end of year both are hero level, my 7100 stays in its box, love my 897d but use it less, n have a 710 but not used it yet!! Thx 4 another fine video , Cheers n 73
Isn't it too power hungry though?
I’m beginning to get setup for POTA operation. Battery (s) are a big part of this. Have you ever done any research into testing a battery’s health and capability? I know the simple DC measurements but isn’t there a tool or something to do a real load test? And something not breaking the bank.
I have lots of videos on this channel that are capacity tests for batteries. But that doesn't test longevity. Only time can do that
FT-891 is what I'm aiming for as my portable HF rigs. Low power consumption on receive. I intend on at least 2, maybe 3, as I'm building for EmComm. One for TTY, one for SSB, and one for Winlink. If one goes down, the weakest service shuts down in favor what's in need. Still deciding on VHF / UHF. I can only do a little each month with my budget. Next month is solar panels... We relied on redundant backup when working in MATCU. (Marine Air Traffic Control Unit.) It's a lesson that stuck. I hope to have the bare necessities for Winter Field Day in a few months. I'm close.
Thinking about testing the Shine portable wind turbine and see if it plays nice.
It's too bad you limited yourself to radios currently in production because the FT-857D is the best portable 100w radio. It actually is compact unlike a couple rigs on this list. It's similar to the 891 but throws in 2m/70cm and can even listen to some additional bands like commercial FM and airband. It's a really great performer, always impresses me every time I take it out. I got mine almost by accident, a club member was selling one for $400 and it was too cheap not to buy it. It's now my favorite portable radio and gets more use than radios I paid a lot more money for.
Ill never sell my 857. Andy redid my screen and new ceramic filters. Works like it did out of the box in 04
FT897D With LDG AT 897+ is unbeatable.
I only ever operated on 10 watts max with my ic 705. Is there so much difference going to 100 watts? I mostly use cw and winlink and get all the contacts i want/ hear.
Put the G90 tuner in the 891 and that would do it. My true 100 watt portable is my 891. I have an IC-7200 in a go box but wouldn't carry it far. POTA friends use the FTDX10 and 991A but not for backpack use.
A radio similar in size to the 891 but with an internal tuner would be what I would like to see. I know, resonant antennas don't need a tuner. I like to use shorter multi band antennas when portable. An EF 41 footer works for me.
Steve, k7ofg.
Bring back the damn 857. I have a 6000r and an 891 both for SOTA. It’s depressing to me that there used to be a singular radio that could have offered GREATER capabilities than BOTH of my radios. Seems like a heartless cash-grab to me. “Why sell one great radio when we could sell two good ones?!”
You know, there's a case to be made for a portable rig like FX-4CR. I just got a new mk III version - it's tiny, 20 watts, does all modes on 80-6m, *plus* bluetooth audio and serial/C-IV control (USB too) , enabling FT8 on you Android phone or tablet. It has a few quirks, but only outside of the ham bands. The receiver is excellent. And it's just flat out cool. The screen is tiny, but still presents everything you need. I can read it fine with my lousy eyes.
It's not 100 watts, but it's not QRP either. 20 watts is useful enough. 100 watt rigs used portable are only as useful as how large of a battery you're willing to lug around.
I bought a used IC-7100 back in July. There's one common complaint about the radio and it's low power output on SSB. It's very hard to drive the radio to get maximum power output. The most I've seen was 60 to 70w max.
It works great on data modes, just under preforming compared to the 7300. One has to run some more ALC to get to the power level one wants to operate at.
I wouldn't recommend the IC-7100 has a portable radio. The control head being separate from the body can be a bit annoying, especially if one wants to keep things simple.
I think the FTX-1F and a 100-125w amp is going to be popular. As you see some of these radios mentioned are remote head anyway. There isn’t much difference with this arrangement of an external amp.
What antenna do you use when you take these beasts to the field?
Thanks Jason!! You Rock!!
Keeping my 703+. Rugged. Sips power on receive. Tuner. Can use LDG and Hiel Icom items.
I did a POTA with a 991A, its easy to operate in the field
I use mine for POTA but I run it out of trunk or picnic table with 30ah battery and solar panel gets me almost limitless power if the sun is out
What makes the best portable is the based on the rec current
I was looking at the 710 Field. But I had Icon LDG and Hiel Icom items. By the time I got replacement stuff, I am at the price of the 7300. So, 7300
I have a ft857d and sent it for repair due to the display started to change color. It stopped working..the tech replaced the display but it would not turn on. wondering if the replacement piece was broken
I would never have thought to take my IC-7300 out in a backpack although I have taken it car camping with the Apache case you mentioned (which btw SAVED it from a nasty fall onto a gravel parking lot in Central Oregon). Apart from anything else you need to factor in the added weight and size of the battery to power it for a decent amount of time. So I like the idea, but not so sure about hiking for miles with one into the backcountry. Anyway, thanks for this as it's a subject I've been considering, albeit not specifically for 100W radios, nor QRP rigs either.
To answer your end question, something from icom that is basically a 'field'/backcountry-sized version of the 7300 seems logical. Maybe with 2 and 70 added.
I think the market gap is something like an 891 with an internal tuner and sound card, or a G90 with 50 watts (or more without melting it).
Yaesu FTDX10 100W SDR Transceiver
Weight (Approx.)13lbs/ 5.9kg
according to GPS Central in Canada.
I use an FT-891 for portable ops. It is missing a tuner and sound card to get the size down.
I agree that Yeasu needs to bring back a QRP radio to replace the 818 and there needs to be a portable radio in the 100 w range.
Coming from a military background where you have teams that would be doing this, as a private citizen I would like a light radio that is in the 20w to 100w that is all mode, all band with or with out a waterfall. Plus with the other thngs you need to get on the air then, Yes it may not be cheap but if it will do these things I will buy it and I think any former military as amature hams would do the same.
19:22 I feel that this is the real definition of portable. Just because a radio is portable enough that I can take it in a vehicle doesn’t really make it portable.
Great looking radio, 📻 tnx Man!
People need to remember, the smallest is not THE best for portable. The best and very compact would be a Elecraft KX3 w/amp. But that's $3k easy. The IC-7300 is pretty portable I'd say, will run on a battery and has an ATU built in. Next up for me would be a IC-7100 (if you need VHF/UHF). Both of those support Digital modes BUILT in. The 891 is pretty compact and the 991 but both of them require extra accessories to use digital modes. SO you could add the 710 to the mix. My choice would be 7300 all day long. My 705 is great, but more watts would be nice.
Big Yaesu fan. I have 5 hand helds and an FT6000 for QTH. But debating on either saving some money and get the G90 or spend a bit more and go with the 891 at 100W. Not worried about 2m and 70cm not on the 891. Not too many on 6m either around here. Mostly 10.
I have a Yaesu FT-710, I took it to the park with me, but it's big and not super portable. I had to put it into APACHE 4800 case to keep it safe, and I would not take that to do the SOTA for sure lol.
Im happy with my icom 706 mk2 and a good pair of aluminium rails 😂 but starting to really like the x6100. Might get the amp for it next
I would like Kenwood to come out with a competitive to 891 but with some added features like Bluetooth detachable head, color touch screen (which still makes it 1 piece unit) and a built in tuner and upgraded filters. Keep the price around or under 1k. Since you stressed the word portable I would like to see a TRUE base station not a portable used as a base, I’ll let you include the 991A as a base
For me, weight (or lack of) would be the most important factor in my decision for a 'portable.' With the exception of those people who love doing QRP, I don't see the point of them. If I want to do QRP, I'd just buy a full powered radio and then dial back the RF output down to 5-15 watts.