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
I have been a QRP operator for over 30 years. I enjoy all aspects of operating QRP. Parks on the Air is one of my personal favorites. It's a way to get out of the shack and put my QRP radio station on the air. One of the fun aspects of activating a state park for the Parks on the Air system is those micro pile ups you get while operating calling CQ POTA.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right QRP radio depends on your operating needs,
budget, and preferred bands/modes. Whether you need an ultra-portable rig
like the Elecraft KX2, an all-band workhorse like the FT-818ND, or an SDR
powerhouse like the IC-705, there is a QRP radio that fits your style.
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