The Ultimate Guide to QRP Radios: Low-Power Ham Radio for Enthusiasts

Introduction

What is QRP Radio?

If you're familiar with amateur radio or just starting to explore it, you might have come across the term "QRP." But what exactly does QRP mean? Simply put, QRP refers to low-power transmission in amateur radio. It's all about making communication happen with minimal power—usually 5 watts or less for Morse code (CW) and digital modes, and up to 10 watts for voice (SSB). The beauty of QRP lies in the challenge: operating efficiently with limited power requires a mix of skill, strategy, and the right equipment.

How QRP Radio is Different from High-Power Operation

When you think of high-power radio operations, you might imagine stations cranking up their power to 100 watts or more to get their signals heard. This is what’s known as QRO (high-power operation). In contrast, QRP operators rely on finesse rather than raw power. While QRO stations use sheer strength to overcome signal loss and poor propagation, QRP stations work smarter. They rely on effective operating techniques, well-placed antennas, and favorable band conditions to make reliable contacts with just a tiny amount of power.

The Appeal of Low-Power Communication

What makes QRP so attractive is practicing communication skills under constrained conditions. QRP operators have to optimize antenna setups, and catch those sweet spots when the radio bands are open. QRP is often tied to portable which adds another layer of interest. For outdoor enthusiasts like hikers, campers, and preppers, operating QRP offers a way to stay connected when off the grid.

Where Do QRP Radios Get Used?

QRP radios aren't just for casual hobbyists—they have a variety of practical applications:

Portable Operations: One of the main draws of QRP is that the radios are small and lightweight. This makes them perfect for activities like hiking, backpacking, and activating summits (SOTA) or state parks (POTA). Imagine setting up a tiny station on top of a mountain or in the middle of a forest powered with a small battery or solar panel.

Emergency Communication: Because many QRP radios are designed to be compact and use minimal power, they can be used in off-grid emergencies. QRP radios provide a reliable means of communication when you're far from civilization.

Contests and Awards: QRP operators enjoy participating in radio contests and earning recognition. There are many awards specifically for QRP operators that offer a fun way to put your skills to the test!

Popular QRP Radios to Check Out
Elecraft KX2
If you're curious about getting started with QRP, there are plenty of great radios on the market to consider. Here are a few favorites among operators:

The Elecraft KX2 is one of the most compact and advanced QRP transceivers available, designed for portable and field operations.
Weighing just 13 ounces (370 grams), it is small enough to fit in a backpack yet powerful enough to support CW, SSB, and digital modes.

·         Key Features

Power Output: 10W max

Bands: 80m–10m

Modes: CW, SSB, Digital

Built-in Antenna Tuner: Yes

Internal Battery Option: Yes

Best For: Backpacking, field ops, and high-performance QRP work

·         Strengths & Weaknesses

✅ Excellent receiver performance with strong filtering options

✅ Lightweight and ultra-portable for outdoor enthusiasts

✅ Built-in tuner allows use with random wire antennas

❌ Expensive compared to other QRP radios

❌ Limited bands (no 160m, no 6m/VHF/UHF)

The ICOM IC-705 is a modern, high-tech QRP transceiver with touchscreen controls, a built-in sound card for digital modes, and full SDR (Software-Defined Radio) capabilities. It is designed for hams who want cutting-edge features and excellent receiver performance.

·         Key Features

Power Output: 10W max (with external power), 5W on battery

Bands: 160m–70cm

Modes: CW, SSB, AM, FM, D-STAR Digital

Built-in Antenna Tuner: No

Internal Battery Option: Yes

Best For: Advanced QRP operators, SDR enthusiasts, digital mode users

·         Strengths & Weaknesses

✅ Full SDR design provides high-performance receiver capabilities

✅ D-STAR digital mode included for modern ham operations

✅ Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS for remote operation

❌ Expensive compared to other QRP radios

❌ Battery drains quickly when using high-power modes

The Xiegu G90 is a budget-friendly QRP transceiver with a built-in tuner and a detachable display. It is popular among new hams and portable operators looking for a cost-effective yet feature-rich radio.

·         Key Features

Power Output: 20W max

Bands: 160m–10m

Modes: CW, SSB, AM, Digital

Built-in Antenna Tuner: Yes

Internal Battery Option: No (external power required)

Best For: Budget-conscious operators, home station setups

·         Strengths & Weaknesses

✅ Affordable compared to other QRP radios

✅ 20W output offers flexibility for both QRP and QRO use

✅ Built-in tuner makes antenna setup easier

❌ Heavier and less compact than other QRP radios

❌ Chinese-built radio—firmware updates and support can be inconsistent

Whether you're looking for a fun challenge or a reliable way to communicate in remote areas, operating QRP radios are unique. QRP radios combine the fun of amateur radio with the skill of operating on minimal power. With the right gear and conditions, it is possible to make contacts across the globe.

References

SOTA (Summits On The Air) official guidelines and resources https://www.sota.org.uk/
POTA (Parks On The Air) field activation manual https://parksontheair.com/
"The Joy of QRP: Strategy for Success" by Adrian Weiss, W0RSP https://amzn.to/4cklBNe
"Minimum QRP: Doing More With Less" by Peter Parker, VK3YE https://amzn.to/3FXAtVS
RSGB (Radio Society of Great Britain) books https://bit.ly/3FX1YPu
QRP Amateur Radio Club International (QRP ARCI) publications https://www.qrparci.org/
"Pedestrian Mobile Handbook" by Edward Breneiser, WA3WSJ https://amzn.to/4cmWxoX

Maximize Your QRP Setup with This Ultra-Portable End-Fed Antenna

By KE2YK

If you’re a QRP operator looking to maximize your signal while minimizing your gear, building a portable end-fed antenna could be your perfect solution. In this guide, I will attempt to walk you through how to build a portable QRP antenna for hiking and camping—designed specifically for QRP radio operation with easy-to-follow steps

What Is QRP, and Why Does It Matter?

QRP refers to operating a radio with very low power, typically 5 watts or less. In the world of ham radio, the goal is often to make contacts over long distances with minimal power—sometimes even just a few milliwatts!
It's a challenge that requires not just good equipment, but the right antenna. That’s where this end-fed antenna design comes in. It’s compact, efficient, and perfect for those of us who love portable setups.

Why End-Fed Antennas Are Perfect for QRP

End-fed antennas are a breeze to set up. Just toss one end over a branch or tie it to a pole, and you’re good to go. For portable operations, that kind of simplicity makes them a perfect choice, especially when you're on the move and need something quick.

But it’s not just about convenience—end-fed antennas are highly efficient when tuned right. They’re designed to handle high impedance (about 3200Ω), and with a little help from an impedance matching device called a UNUN transformer, your radio’s 50Ω input is happy. This ensures that your signal is strong and clear, even with only 5 watts of power, which is essential for any QRP operator.

Impedance Matching: Why It’s So Important

When you use an antenna, the impedance needs to match your radio’s input. If it doesn't, you’ll end up with a poor signal and high power loss.
In this antenna design, the 64:1 UNUN transformer is the key. It matches the antenna’s high impedance to the radio’s 50Ω input, ensuring your radio works efficiently with minimal loss.
This transformer plays a crucial role in making the antenna perform well, especially for QRP operators who are working with low power.

Step-by-Step: How to Build The QRP End-Fed Antenna

Building this antenna is easier than you might think, and it doesn’t require fancy or hard-to-find materials. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

Materials You’ll Need for Your Portable QRP Antenna

BNC Connector: This is what connects your antenna to your radio.

FT50-43 Toroid Core: A small magnetic ring used to create the impedance transformer.

Insulated Copper Wire (0.25mm enamel wire): Used to wind the toroid and form the antenna wire.

100pF Capacitor (1000V): Keeps the circuit stable and helps with tuning.

28.5mm PVC Pipe: This is your coil form for the inductor.

Glue or Resin: Protects the components and ensures everything stays secure.

How to Build an End-Fed Antenna for Portable Ham Radio Operation

Wind the Toroid
Start by winding two turns of wire in one direction, and then add seven more in the same direction. Now, cross the wire and wind seven more in the opposite direction. Keep the crossing wire slightly to the side—this will make installing the SMA connector a lot easier later on.

Create the Inductor
Grab the PVC pipe and wrap 50 turns of wire around it to create your inductor. For the best performance, aim for an inductance of around 34µH.

Attach the Antenna Wire
Now, take a 0.95-meter length of wire and attach it to the inductor. Then, connect the other end of the wire to the BNC connector. Finally, add another 2 meters of wire after the connector to complete the antenna.

Finalize the Circuit
Install the 100pF capacitor between the center conductor (the part that carries the signal) and ground. After that, solder all the connections and insulate them with glue or resin to protect everything from the elements.

a ham radio operator running QRP from a field location

A ham radio operator running QRP field operations

Portable Ham Radio Antennas: The Best Lightweight End-Fed Build

Introduction

If you’re into QRP (low-power) radio operation, you’ll appreciate this ultra-portable end-fed antenna designed by David Del Torimo (DL1DN). It’s lightweight, efficient, and perfect for field use—ideal for operators who want to maximize performance with minimal gear.

Why does this matter? In QRP, every watt counts. A well-tuned end-fed antenna can mean the difference between a weak signal and a reliable connection, even at just 5 watts or less.

In this article, I’ll break down David’s build, go over the key components, and share a video at the end that dives deeper into optimizing your QRP setup.

Creator Bio

David Del Torimo (DL1DN) is a passionate QRP operator and antenna experimenter. His QRP Lifestyle channel is packed with hands-on tips and DIY projects for ham radio enthusiasts, with a special focus on lightweight, efficient, and portable antenna setups.

🔗 Check out his channel for more QRP hacks: QRP Lifestyle on YouTube

Key Takeaways And Notes

End-fed antennas are great for QRP. This build uses a 64:1 UNUN transformer for efficient impedance matching.
Portability matters. Weighing just 58 grams, this antenna is perfect for field ops and backpacking.
Tuning is everything. The right inductance and capacitance ensure your antenna works across multiple bands.
Some Notes About This Article
1. 64:1 UNUN Transformer Misconception – The article states that the end-fed antenna uses a 64:1 UNUN, but this may not be suitable for all end-fed antenna configurations. A 49:1 UNUN is more commonly used for end-fed half-wave (EFHW) antennas, while a 64:1 is used for much higher impedance antennas (e.g., random wires requiring additional tuning).
2. Toroid Core Selection – The FT50-43 toroid may not be ideal for a 64:1 transformer. This core is small and may not handle power efficiently. Larger cores like FT82-43 or FT140-43 are more commonly used in QRP applications.
3. Inductor Value Issue – The article specifies a 34 µH inductor, but this value depends on the wire length and frequency range. If this is for a multi-band operation, the inductor value may need adjustment.
4. Antenna Wire Length Inconsistency – The given lengths (0.95m + inductor + 2m) do not align with common resonant wire lengths for typical end-fed antennas. A traditional EFHW for 20m band should be around 10m (half-wave for 14 MHz) or a harmonic multiple.
5. Capacitor Misplacement – A 100 pF, 1000V capacitor in the described position suggests it is being used for impedance matching, but EFHW antennas do not always require this. Typically, a capacitor (e.g., 150 pF - 220 pF) is placed across the transformer output to improve high-frequency performance.

Materials You'll Need

Item

Purpose

SMA connector

Connects the antenna to your radio.

FT50-43 toroid

Acts as the core for the impedance transformer.

Insulated copper wire

0.25mm enamel wire recommended for winding.

Capacitor

100 pF, 1000V for circuit stabilization.

PVC pipe (28.5mm)

Used as a coil form for the inductor.

Glue or resin

Provides insulation and mechanical support.

Item	Purpose
SMA connector	Connects the antenna to your radio.
FT50-43 toroid	Acts as the core for the impedance transformer.
Insulated copper wire	0.25mm enamel wire recommended for winding.
Capacitor	100 pF, 1000V for circuit stabilization.
PVC pipe (28.5mm)	Used as a coil form for the inductor.
Glue or resin	Provides insulation and mechanical support.

Historical Background of QRP Radio

QRP, which stands for low-power operation in amateur radio, has a rich history rooted in the early days of ham radio. Over the years, it has grown from a niche interest to a popular mode embraced by both seasoned and new operators alike. Here’s a deeper look at who, why, when, and how QRP radio evolved.

Who Started QRP and Why?

QRP has its origins in the early 20th century, as amateur radio operators began to experiment with more efficient ways to communicate over long distances using limited power. It was largely driven by a group of early pioneers who saw the challenge of operating with minimal power as both a technical puzzle and a way to demonstrate the capabilities of their equipment.

One of the earliest mentions of QRP comes from Hiram Percy Maxim, one of the founders of the American Radio Relay League (ARRL), who, along with other early radio enthusiasts, advocated for the development of small, efficient transmitters. Maxim himself enjoyed operating at low power levels and believed that QRP could help refine skills, promote technical innovation, and prove that low-power signals could make long-distance contacts.

As amateur radio evolved, many early operators began to push the limits of low-power transmissions (less than 5 watts) to maximize the efficiency of their equipment. The "Q" codes, including the term "QRP" for low-power operation, were adopted around the time when these experiments were taking place.

When Did QRP Become Popular?

QRP began to gain traction as early as the 1920s and 1930s when ham radio operators in the United States and Europe started experimenting with lower-power setups. In those early days, most operators used home-built radios, which often had limited power output due to the cost and availability of components.

However, QRP really gained momentum in the 1960s and 1970s when the QRP Club of America was established. This organization played a crucial role in formalizing the practice, providing resources for enthusiasts, and promoting the low-power concept to a broader audience. During this time, QRP was still somewhat of an underground pursuit, and operators often built their own rigs from scratch or from kits.

The rise of more compact and affordable transistors in the 1970s and 1980s allowed for more practical and efficient QRP radios. These radios became more widely available and affordable, giving rise to an even larger community of QRP enthusiasts.

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the digital era of amateur radio brought new modes like PSK31, FT8, and RTTY, which further increased the popularity of QRP, as these modes allowed operators to make reliable contacts even with low power.

Why Is QRP Radio Popular?

QRP appeals to a diverse group of amateur radio operators for several reasons:

Challenge and Skill Development:
One of the primary reasons QRP attracts so many operators is the challenge it presents. Making contacts with as little as 1 to 5 watts requires skill, patience, and an understanding of propagation, antennas, and the technical aspects of the hobby. Many operators find satisfaction in the process of mastering these skills.
Portable Operations:
QRP is particularly appealing to those who enjoy portable operating. Since QRP rigs are small and lightweight, they are easy to carry, which is ideal for field operations, backpacking, or even international travel. Many QRP enthusiasts participate in activities like Summits on the Air (SOTA) or Parks on the Air (POTA), where they set up portable stations in outdoor locations.
Low Cost:
QRP radios are often more affordable than higher-powered counterparts. Because they use fewer components and less energy, these radios can be an economical way to get started in ham radio. Additionally, many QRP operators enjoy building their own radios, which can further reduce costs.
Efficiency and Sustainability:
In a world where energy conservation is increasingly important, QRP offers a way to minimize power consumption while still being able to make global contacts. Many QRP operators enjoy using solar panels, batteries, and other eco-friendly methods of powering their rigs.

How Is QRP Operated?

QRP operation requires a combination of careful planning and a bit of luck. Here’s a breakdown of how QRP works and how operators maximize their success:

Radio Equipment:
QRP radios are designed to operate at low power, typically between 1 to 5 watts (though some operators may go as low as 500 milliwatts or less). These radios can be commercially purchased, often in the form of compact, portable kits, or they can be home-built by enthusiasts. Common QRP rigs include transceivers and single-sideband (SSB) radios.
Antenna Systems:
The antenna plays a crucial role in QRP operations, as it can significantly affect the strength and clarity of the signal. QRP operators typically invest time in experimenting with antenna designs that are efficient at low power, such as dipoles, verticals, and small loop antennas. Antenna placement and orientation also matter, as they can improve signal propagation.
Operating Modes:
QRP operators often use CW (Morse code) for their transmissions, as it is particularly effective at low power levels. However, with the advent of digital modes like FT8, PSK31, and RTTY, many QRP operators have embraced these modes for making reliable, long-distance contacts even under challenging conditions.
Propagation Knowledge:
QRP operators rely heavily on their knowledge of radio propagation, or how radio waves travel through the atmosphere. They must understand how various factors—such as time of day, solar activity, and frequency selection—affect signal strength. Additionally, operators must be patient, as QRP contacts may take longer to establish than high-power ones.
Persistence and Patience:
Making QRP contacts can be more time-consuming than regular ham radio operations. Low-power signals are more easily lost in the noise, so QRP operators often need to persist and call on specific frequencies or times to increase their chances of success. This patience is an integral part of the QRP experience and adds to the sense of achievement when a contact is finally made.

Conclusion

QRP radio has a long and rich history that spans the evolution of amateur radio itself. What started as a hobby for early pioneers and experimenters has grown into a vibrant community that celebrates skill, efficiency, and creativity. With a focus on low-power transmissions, portable operations, and a deep understanding of the technical aspects of the hobby, QRP continues to be a rewarding and challenging aspect of ham radio. Whether you're building your own rig or participating in field operations, QRP offers a unique and fulfilling way to enjoy the world of amateur radio.

QRP for Beginners: The Pros, Cons, and Best Radios to Start With

An Amateur Radio Operator operating QRP in a field

Are QRP Rigs Worth It? Exploring Low-Power Ham Radio for Parks on the Air

QRP Rigs: Are They the Future of Ham Radio?

Ever wondered if low-power (QRP) ham radios are worth the investment? Jack, aka Whiskey 3 Charlie Tango (W3CT), dives deep into his personal experience using QRP rigs, exploring their advantages and limitations in real-world activations. From building antennas to logging contacts with just 5 watts (or less!), Jack shares why he believes QRP radios have a solid place in the ham radio community.

If you’re new to Parks on the Air (POTA) or just curious about compact radio setups, this video is a must-watch. Let’s break down the key takeaways and best practices for making the most of QRP operations!

🎙 About the Creator - Jack (W3CT) and His Ham Radio Journey

Jack, known as Whiskey 3 Charlie Tango (W3CT), shares his ham radio journey through his YouTube channel, offering insights on portable radio setups, antenna-building, and real-world activations. His channel is an invaluable resource for new and experienced radio enthusiasts looking to improve their on-air experience.

📺 Check out his channel here: Jack’s Ham Radio Journey (Insert actual link if available)

🔑 Key Takeaways from the Video

QRP radios are more powerful than you think – Even with just 5 watts, you can make solid contacts if conditions are right.
Antenna setup matters – Jack’s homemade 40m end-fed half-wave antenna proved to be a game-changer.
CW (Morse code) is king for QRP – Many QRP rigs are optimized for CW, making it an excellent mode for low-power activations.

📡 Step-by-Step: How to Get Started with QRP Radios

Choose the right QRP rig – Radios like the QMX or the G90 (when turned down to 5W) are great options.
Set up a lightweight antenna – Jack used a 40m end-fed half-wave with a DX Commander mast for great results.
Find the best location – Parks, remote areas, or elevated terrain help boost signal reach.
Adjust your settings – Keep SWR in check and experiment with antenna positioning for optimal results.
Log your contacts – Apps like Hammers make logging seamless during activations.
Keep practicing CW – It’s one of the most effective modes for making contacts with low power.

🛠️ Resources Mentioned

QMX QRP Rig – A compact, budget-friendly radio ideal for CW and FT8 modes.
Xiegu G90 – A versatile HF radio that can be turned down to QRP levels.
Hammers App – A logging app that makes recording contacts easier.
DX Commander Mast – A durable and portable antenna support system.
End-Fed Half-Wave Antenna – Jack’s homemade antenna setup that worked exceptionally well.

📢 My Expert Advice on QRP Radios

As a ham radio enthusiast, I believe QRP operations are a great way to challenge your skills while keeping your setup portable and affordable. If you're into Parks on the Air (POTA) or Summits on the Air (SOTA), a lightweight QRP rig can be a game-changer. However, antenna placement and propagation awareness are key to making successful contacts. Don't be discouraged if conditions aren't great—keep experimenting, and you'll be amazed at what 5 watts can do!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is a QRP rig?
A QRP rig is a low-power ham radio transmitter, typically operating at 5 watts or less.

2. Is QRP good for beginners?
Yes and no—it's great for learning efficiency, but beginners may struggle with weak signals and need patience.

3. Can I use SSB on a QRP radio?
Some QRP rigs support SSB, but CW and digital modes (like FT8) are more effective with low power.

4. What’s the best QRP antenna?
An end-fed half-wave (EFHW) or a dipole antenna works great for portable QRP setups.

5. How far can a QRP signal reach?
Under good conditions, QRP signals can reach hundreds or even thousands of miles—Jack logged Florida and Connecticut with just 5 watts!

Ham Radio Gear: The Mount-It Car Desk @ POTA K-0481

Are you a #POTA or Parks on the Air QRPer? Do you like to operate year round like me? Then you might consider picking up a Mount-It Car Desk. My car desk arrived the other day and I wanted to try it out for an activation. The weather was clear but very windy that day, so I had the excuse I needed to try out the car desk.

Off to Werthiem K-0481 for my first attempt. As you can see from the photo it worked out well. The car desk easily handled the weight of the rig and battery as well as my heavy hand on the KX3 QRPGUYS paddle kit. For notepad logging, the pull out side panel was also the perfect size.

If you are one of those QRP nuts like me who enjoy activating for Parks on the Air year round, the Mount-It Car Desk will an asset to you. Of course the car desk can also be mounted on the steering wheel for other uses like working a laptop or reading. Since I have plenty of time sitting in the car between appointments, the Mount-It car desk will get a workout.

QRP Stuff