Having an undisputed zeal for amateur radio involves worries about external disturbances too. But who cares when you have the best antenna analyzer for the money.
In the world of amateur radio, one gets to discover an ocean of endless opportunities. From effective communication to self-training for professional application, it offers all.
Apart from this, some even pursue ham radio as a part of recreational activity. Though this field is quite exciting, there is always a fair possibility of external disturbances.
Even after having an antenna, the user often comes across various types of signal hardships. To resolve such issues, the antenna analyzer comes to the rescue.
A Comparison of 6 Best Antenna Analyzer of 2024
| Brand Name | Detail |
|---|---|
| RigExpert AA-35 | |
| RigExpert AA-600 | |
| RigExpert AA-55 | |
| AURSINC | |
| MFJ-259C | |
| AURSINC REV3.4 |
What is the Best Antenna Analyzer For The Money?
There are various types of best antenna analyzers for the money in the segment with different features, functions, and utilities. To get the best out of them, one has to look for certain specific integrations.
One of the most vital things for an analyzer is to support a wide-ranging frequency. After this, the LCD screen for a convenient display system is also quite essential.
Beyond these, the best antenna analyzer should be compatible with a PC or smartphone accessibility. Most importantly, a fast USB connectivity and a battery of higher capacity would do the needful for the user.
Why is Rig Expert The Best Brand For an Antenna Analyzer?
Being one of the leading brands in the market, Rig Expert offers the best antenna analyzers for the money. From unmatchable quality to premium performance, it provides both.
Another remarkable thing is the in-built LCD screen with a portable build-up. The antenna analyzers by Rig Expert are made to assess the antenna’s health. For this, the tool tests, checks, tunes, and repairs the antenna system and its other parameters.
Best Antenna Analyzer For The Money Reviews
01. AA-35 Zoom HF Antenna Analyzer by Rig Expert
Features
- Defines and measures the coaxial stubs
- Processes cable loss with distinctive impedance
- Facilitates cable assessment
- Recognizes the fault location
- A frequency range of 0.06-35 MHz
- UHF connector type
With a frequency range of 0.06-35 MHz, this antenna analyzer is designed for systems with 25, 50, 75, and 100-Ohm.
Apart from this, the SWR measurement varies around 1-100 and 1-10 in numerical and chart modes, respectively.
Other than this, one can easily measure cable and return loss. Besides, it measures the other determinants of antenna and cable systems in a range of 60 kHz to 35 MHz with accuracy.
Another notable feature of this product is that it measures the inductance or capacitance of the reactive loads.
To enhance the effectiveness of the graphical measurements, it has an in-built ZOOM function as well.
Further, it facilitates an instant check-out of the antenna, making it the best antenna analyzer for the money.
Moreover, this product tunes the antenna to resonance for superior performance.
Likewise, it compares the same characteristics before and after a particular event such as rain or hurricane.
Pros
- Convenient colored display
- Arrives with a carry case
- Comprehensive graphical measurements
- Includes a USB cable
Cons
- Not suitable for use in direct sunlight
- The volume of the speaker is not much loud
02. AA-600 HF/VHF Antenna Analyzer by Rig Expert
Features
- In-built LCD screen
- N-type antenna connection
- It runs on 2400mA AA batteries
- Scans 10 diverse parameters
- It takes only 2 to 3 minutes for scanning
- Transmits SWR via radio frequency
Equipped with a power-packed system, this best antenna analyzer for the money is made especially for hobbyists and professionals.
It effectively tests, evaluates, tunes, and repairs the antenna along with its feed lines. Thus it supports graphical SWR together with impedance.
Moving on further, the smith or polar chart displays are the prime functions that this product offers. Ultimately, it assists in reducing the time required for a proper adjustment of an antenna.
A notable thing about this product is that it comprises user-friendly measurement modes. Apart from this, there are also additional features such as fast and hassle-free connectivity to the personal computer.
This best antenna analyzer for the money does it all from measuring the coaxial parameter to resonance tuning. Additionally, it defined the inductance/capacitance of the reactive loads with higher accuracy.
Pros
- Ideal for outdoor use
- Effortless set-up process
- Includes an adapter and charger
- Arrives with a software CD
Cons
- Lacks a dedicated mode for improving the measurement frequency
- At times, the display is slightly loose inside the case
03. AA-55 ZOOM Antenna Analyzer by Rig Expert
Features
- A frequency range of 0.06-55 MHz
- Numerical mode range of 1-100
- 1-10 range for chart mode
- SWR display with an indicator
- UHF connector type
- In-built zoom function
Rig Expert antenna analyzer is made for measuring the SWR. In addition to this, one can also use this for determining cable and return loss.
Other cable parameters alongside antenna systems under the range of 60 kHz to 55 MHz are also measurable.
To boost and enhance the effectiveness of the overall graphical measurements, it has an in-built zoom system.
What attracts the most is the compact build-up of this antenna analyzer that features a comfortable grip.
One can easily carry out an instant assessment of the antenna system with the help of this product.
As a result, it even facilitates resonance tuning of the antenna with ease; the user can measure the reactive loads’ capacitance and inductance without any complications.
On the whole, it accomplishes cable testing, characteristic impedance with fault location.
Pros
- Easy-to-hold grip
- Numerical and analog indicator
- Compares the antenna characteristics
- Measurement of coaxial parameters
Cons
- It lacks an immersive display
- It does not support connectivity for big-screen access
04. NanoVNA Vector Network Analyzer by AURSINC
Features
- 10 kHz-1.5 GHz frequency range
- 8 inch TFT display
- USB Type-C interface
- 101 scanning points
- RF output of 0 dBm
- Battery of 650mAh
If you want a tool that efficiently delivers accurate measurements for vector network, then here is the pick.
Being a compact and handheld device, it has an LCD of 2.8 inches for an easy-to-understand view.
Additionally, it fulfills its power requirements either using a battery or USB. On top of that, it provides a measurement frequency range of 10 kHz to 1.5 GHz.
A good thing to consider in this product is the touch screen functionality that the TFT display offers. Eventually, it adds to the comfort and convenience of the user during the application.
Aursinc tool has a metal shield. Aursinc analyzer has a rechargeable battery of 650mAh. Significantly, it precisely measures the UHF antenna and VHF duplex.
Other than these, it traces the error using the function of a time-domain analysis. To sum up, this tool supports the accessibility over the bigger screens.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Superior measurement range
- Swift USB connectivity
- Metal shield to eliminate friction
Cons
- Lacks the facility of auto-calibration
- The set-up process is a bit intricate
05. SWR Antenna Analyzer 259C by MFJ
Features
- 53 to 230 MHz frequency range
- In-built frequency counter
- LCD of 2 lines
- Battery saver mode
- Reduction drive tuning system
- Inductance and capacitance measuring
MFJ antenna analyzer works fully independent of the radio. So there is no need for a separate transmitter or a radio hookup as there is an in-built frequency counter.
Due to this, the tuning range of the tool effectively covers the VHF spectrum. For assessing the measurement readings, there is a standard LCD of 2 lines.
All one has to do is dial the frequency, and the tool will show the SWR in no time.
However, this best antenna analyzer for the money supports HF and VHF along with 220 frequencies.
Typically, it has a black-colored construction, which gives it a sophisticated look. In brief, this tool quickly provides a comprehensive report of the antenna’s performance.
One can read and assess the SWR and complex impedance, thereby determining the velocity factor.
On top of that, it also measures the return loss with reflection coefficient at wide-ranging frequencies at one go.
Pros
- No need for a radio
- Side-by-side meters for a clear display
- Gives warning for low battery
- Simple and efficient integrations
Cons
- It does not covers UHF
- No separate function for calibration
6. NanoVNA Vector Network Analyzer
Features
- Effective battery circuit management
- 650mAh in-built battery
- Consistent performance for 2 hours
- 8 inch TFT display
- USB Type-C connectivity
- 10 kHz to 1.5 GHz frequency range
This analyzer delivers a secure and superior performance. With the redesigned PCB’s help, the user can connect this tool to the smartphone through the Type-C cable.
Afterward, it provides a clear HD image to the user on the phone. Equipped with a practical and straightforward control system for PC, it assists in downloading the SNP files.
Significantly, this function is useful for the radio design alongside the simulation software as well.
Being a battery or USB-powered tool, it has an in-built battery with a capacity of 650mAh. Because of this, it delivers continuous and reliable performance for up to 2 hours without any interruptions.
Another considerable aspect of this product is the primary default firmware function that scans and measures the antenna’s performance.
One can determine the S11 and S21 parameters by using the TX or RX method.
Pros
- Portable design
- ABS shell for protection
- Arrives in a protective dust-resistant case
- 101 scanning points
Cons
- Lacks automated functions
- Not suitable for wide-ranging scanning band
Buying Guide of Best Antenna Analyzer
Undoubtedly, there exists a vast range of antenna analyzers in the market. Because of this, it has become slightly challenging for the user to pick the most suitable one.
Correspondingly, the antenna analyzers vary based on build-up, functionality, integration, and features as well.
It is vital to assess specific aspects of the product. For this, the following buying considerations would guide in selecting the best antenna analyzer for the money.
Frequency Range
Most importantly, the user should assess the frequency range of the antenna analyzer as it quite crucial.
For ham radio, the frequency should range somewhere around 16MHz to 27MHz. Generally, it is preferable to have an antenna analyzer with higher frequencies to get the desired performance.
If you use radio for airplane tracing or weather tracking, then operate at a greater frequency for accurate results.
It is quintessential to purchase an analyzer that supports a higher frequency range. Ideally, you can opt for the one that has a wide-ranging frequency of 50 kHz to 300MHz.
Interface
If you are a beginner, then carefully consider the interface of the antenna analyzer. For a user-friendly application, it is recommendable to go for the one that features simple integrations.
For this, one should look for ease of use alongside the convenient switches or buttons. Otherwise, it would become challenging for the user to utilize the antenna analyzer properly.
Apart from this, check for the display and the features as well. Some analyzers offer PC or smartphone connectivity.
It is also beneficial for the user, especially if the antenna analyzer’s display is not that good. Lastly, check the functionality of the product to figure out whether it is of good use to you or not.
Shielded or Unshielded
For unmatchable protection and long-term durability, the VNAs arrive with a shielding. Usually, it is done through a hard casing made out of metal such as standard aluminum.
On the contrary, some VNAs do not possess any type of shielding, affecting the performance in prolonged use.
Significantly, the shielded antenna analyzers offer supreme protection for the internal components.
As a result of this, it can resist the inevitable impacts in comparison to the unshielded ones.
Additionally, the shielding assists in warding off the external disturbances. However, there is one drawback of the analyzers that have shielding.
If you are a technical person who wants to access the circuit structure, the shielding will prevent that. In the end, it would depend upon the user whether he/she wants either protection or interior accessibility.
Display
To understand the measurements of the best antenna analyzer, a sound display system is much-needed.
Mostly there is a touch screen LCD, which makes the overall application a lot easier. Typically, the size of the display should be around 2.8 to 4.3 inches at least.
More to say, it also enhances the functionality of the analyzer as it represents the wide-ranging measurements.
Other than this, it provides an easy-to-read view to the user for the parameters related to the antenna system.
Battery Capacity
Some analyzers have replaceable batteries, whereas some have rechargeable ones. If you want a cost-effective tool, then go for the ones with an in-built battery that can be charged through a USB or a power-switch.
When it comes to determining the longevity of performance, the battery capacity plays a crucial role.
Generally, the batteries with higher capacities are efficient in delivering long-lasting applications.
On the other hand, the analyzers with fewer capacity batteries drain faster and require charging in shorter-intervals.
To prevent such issues, go for the analyzers with battery capacity ranging around 2500 to 5000 mAh.
Bigger Screen Accessibility
For an immersive display experience, some analyzer offers comfortable and hassle-free accessibility over the bigger screens.
With this function’s help, the user can connect the analyzer to either a PC or a smartphone using a USB cable.
In due course, it helps the user assess the measurements and other analyzer features on larger displays.
Yet this function is beneficial, especially for those analyzers that are having smaller standard display screens.
FAQ’s of Antenna Analyzer Reviews
What is the primary function of an antenna analyzer?
An antenna analyzer is also popularly known as an SWR analyzer, Noise Bridge, RF analyzer, or RX Bridge. Its main function is to measure and determine the input impedance of the cable and antenna system.
However, this device is mainly useful for radio-electronic applications. By getting the antenna analyzer, one can experience a wider range of functions.
How to test the antenna with a multimeter?
To test the antenna through a multimeter, follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Connect the lead of the multimeter to the antenna’s metal part
- Now touch the second lead to the cable’s metalcore
- Make sure that the ohms reading must be zero only
After accomplishing the steps above, if the resistance is bigger than the ideal one, then the antenna/cable is damaged. In such conditions, the signal would not reach the reception device.
How to check whether the antenna is working properly or not?
One can easily check the functioning of the antenna with the help of the following steps:
- Turn on the signal meter of the antenna
- Now you have to tune-in the lowermost broadcast channel nearby
- Afterward, slightly rotate the antenna to 360 degrees
- Stop at the signal strength, which is the highest of all
- With the help of a compass, read the direction of the antenna signal and then record the assessment
How to tune an antenna?
Firstly, the user has to attach the radio to the source socket present on the SWR meter. One can easily carry this out with the help of a coaxial cable.
Secondly, you have to connect the antenna to the socket using a coaxial cable on the SWR meter.
After that, set the radio to the least possible power and CW/FM mode as well. Lastly, tune to the lowermost band available.
What are VNA and NanoVNA?
VNA stands for Vector Network Analyzer that works like a multimeter to measure the resistance.
But a VNA measures the resistance of either a microwave circuit or an RF at their respective operating frequencies.
By determining both, the phase and resistance of the circuit, the tool makes up for a vector.
On the other hand, the NanoVNA is a small-sized VNA, similar to that of a credit card. Such devices have an in-built LCD screen to display the comprehensive graphs or measurements to the user directly.
Similarly, one can also connect a NanoVNA to a PC through specific windows software for the same.
While purchasing a NanoVNA tool, the user can select an additional option that includes a small battery that facilitates portable application.
What do you mean by return loss in an antenna?
In general terms, the return loss measures and determines how small the refection or return is. Ideally, it is preferable to have a small return on which there will be a larger loss on the return.
In the long term, it is considered a good sign of performance. Contrary to this, the smaller return loss is not good as it signifies that lesser energy is going inside the antenna system.
Conclusion
To sum up, you must have now become familiar with the utility of the antenna analyzers. Above all, an antenna analyzer is an ideal tool for radio users.
Therefore, before getting one for yourself, carefully assess all the features and integrations of the tool.
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