Technology Reviews by N2RAC

I’m taking out this inexpensive kit radio for a spin, and it’s been exceeding my expectations so far

An unscientific comparison — what’s the right Yaesu C4FM portable for you?

A nostalgic escape from the distractions of modern smartphones, combining essential connectivity features with a simpler mobile experience…

With its older digital tech, the Yaesu FT1XDR has the poorest, while the FT3D is the thriftiest in battery consumption.

Yaesu’s cheapest handheld radio has some compromises, but also some advantages as a backup, go-bag or loaner radio

Love it or hate it, the Xiegu G90 software-defined radio may just have a place in your portable radio go-bag

While it does not match the range & capabilities of amateur radio, it can be a good redundancy and a secure alternative for non-radio users

Just a personal opinion, Yaesu should’ve continued making a flagship digital radio with a keypad for easy APRS text input

A sturdy and reliable subcompact analog dualband radio. The lack of digital makes it limited as a primary radio, but for outdoor…

Is this the Baofeng UV-5R killer?

The license-free portable radio from Cignus provides higher power and better clarity than other SRRS competitors in the market, all at a…

Data, calls, and SMS do not expire. Great for students, backup SIM, or longer-term set-and-forget SIM while on-the-go

A pair of lightweight portable radios with good selectivity receivers

From burns to explosions to thermal runoffs, there are inherent risks in Li-Ion technology that we radio users should be aware of

The grey-market radio is apparently the real deal

What have you been up to?

I’ve always been paranoid about the screen getting scratched by keys or hitting a tabletop corner

Performance, digital capability, value in a lightweight package

A shootout between two basic portables with tank-like reputation; Which one should you choose?

Prepaid SIM turns your mobile phone into a “wireless landline” — good for households or small businesses that need local number access

Is the Yaesu FT-2DR worth the extra cost? Should you stick with the entry-level FT-70DR? Or should you go ahead and splurge on an FT-3DR?

A brief comparison of two similar radios running on custom openGD77/openGD1801 firmware

Some pros, cons, and general observations on the QYT KT-8900D mini-mobile radio

A fairly capable dualband mobile radio for amateur use