KX2 vs Budget CW RIGs
We took an Elecraft KX2 into the field and put it up against three less expensive CW rigs. Was the KX2 worth ten times the price? We ran POTA activations, ragchews, and side-by-side tests to find out. Spoiler: it was fun and there is something to love about all the radios.
What we tested
We used the radios in real settings so you can see how they perform when it matters. Short and simple:
- Elecraft KX2 — a polished, full-featured QRP rig.
- QCX-mini — tiny and affordable, one band.
- QMX — multi-band, great value from QRP-Labs.
- CFT1 — compact 5-band CW field rig with great performance.
We did POTA activations and ragchews. We listened for receiver clarity, tried filters, checked battery life, and tested how each rig handles real contacts. We also go over the features that are unique to the KX2 in comparison to our other radios.
Want the gear or more details?
We list the main radios and a few field items below. If you want the full kit and links, check the video description for everything we used.
- Elecraft KX2 — https://elecraft.com/products/kx2-ssb-cw-data-80-10-m-transceiver
- QCX mini 1 Band — https://qrp-labs.com/qcxmini.html
- QMX 5 Band — https://qrp-labs.com/qmx.html
- CFT1 5-Band CW Field Transceiver — https://hamgadgets.com/cft1-by-km4cft.html
Watch and join us
If you like QRP radios, check out the video to see our comparison and thoughts!
73 from Mike N4FFF and Becky N4BKY — see you on the bands!