Parks on the Air (POTA) requires the Best POTA Radio that combine portability, efficiency, and durability. Because operators often work in unpredictable outdoor environments, a good POTA radio must balance size, battery life, and performance across multiple bands. Below are five of the best radios suited for POTA, each with distinct features, advantages, and specifications.
Yaesu FT-891
The Yaesu FT-891 is a compact 100-watt HF radio designed for portability and strong performance. Although small, it provides excellent transmit power for reaching distant stations. Operators appreciate its rugged design and ease of use in field conditions.
Its features include a large, clear display, advanced digital signal processing (DSP), and coverage from 160 through 6 meters. Additionally, it offers multiple filters to reduce noise and improve weak signal reception. For POTA, the FT-891 stands out because it combines full power output with a compact body, making it easy to carry and set up in the field.
Specifications:
- Frequency coverage: 160–6 meters
- Power output: 5–100 watts
- Modes: SSB, CW, AM, FM, digital
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
Icom IC-705
The Icom IC-705 is one of the most versatile POTA radios. Because it covers HF, VHF, and UHF bands in one package, it allows operators to work nearly any band during an activation. Although it is a QRP rig, it delivers high performance in a lightweight body.
Its main features include an SDR-based architecture, a 4.3-inch color touch screen, built-in GPS, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. Furthermore, it has a rechargeable internal battery that makes portable operation easier without extra equipment. For POTA, the IC-705 shines with its all-in-one design and ability to cover multiple modes, including D-STAR digital voice.
Specifications:
- Frequency coverage: HF, 6m, 2m, 70cm
- Power output: 0.5–10 watts
- Modes: SSB, CW, AM, FM, RTTY, D-STAR
- Weight: 2.4 pounds
Elecraft KX2
The Elecraft KX2 is an ultralight HF QRP radio built specifically for portable operation. Because of its small size, it is ideal for activators who hike deep into parks and need to save weight. Despite its size, it delivers solid performance across multiple bands.
Its features include built-in DSP, an optional internal tuner, and a rechargeable battery pack. Additionally, it covers 80 through 10 meters, making it useful for both local and DX contacts. For POTA, the KX2 excels in portability and efficiency, especially when paired with a lightweight wire antenna.
Specifications:
- Frequency coverage: 80–10 meters
- Power output: 0–10 watts
- Modes: SSB, CW, digital
- Weight: 13 ounces
Xiegu G90
The Xiegu G90 is a popular budget-friendly HF radio with 20 watts of output. Because it has a built-in automatic antenna tuner, it simplifies field operations by matching antennas quickly. Many POTA operators appreciate its balance of power and affordability.
Its main features include an SDR architecture, a detachable faceplate for remote mounting, and coverage from 160 through 10 meters. Moreover, the G90 provides a spectrum display, which is rare in its price range. For POTA, it gives operators more transmit power than typical QRP radios while still being portable enough for outdoor use.
Specifications:
- Frequency coverage: 160–10 meters
- Power output: 1–20 watts
- Modes: SSB, CW, AM, digital
- Weight: 4.4 pounds
Xiegu X6100
The Xiegu X6100 is a compact HF/50MHz SDR transceiver designed for portable and field operations. It combines modern software-defined technology with practical features, which makes it versatile for both new and experienced operators. Because it includes a built-in rechargeable battery, the radio can operate independently in outdoor environments.
Furthermore, its automatic antenna tuner simplifies setup by adjusting to different antennas quickly. The unit supports full operating modes, and its lightweight design ensures easy transport. Additionally, the color display and intuitive controls provide a user-friendly experience during extended operating sessions.
Xiegu X6100 Specifications
- Frequency coverage (transmit): 0.5 – 30 MHz, 50 – 54 MHz
- Frequency coverage (receive): 0.5 – 30 MHz, 50 – 54 MHz
- Power output: 10 watts (external power), 5 watts (internal battery)
- Modes: SSB, CW, AM, FM, digital
- SDR architecture: Direct sampling receiver, digital signal processing
- Built-in features: Automatic antenna tuner, rechargeable battery, USB and CAT control
- Display: Color LCD with waterfall and spectrum scope
- Weight: 2.4 pounds (approx. 1.1 kg)
- Dimensions: 9.4” x 6.1” x 2.1”
Final Thoughts On The Best POTA Radio
When choosing the Best POTA Radio, operators must balance power, portability, and features. The Yaesu FT-891 delivers high power in a compact size, while the Icom IC-705 offers unmatched versatility.
The Elecraft KX2 provides ultralight portability, the Xiegu G90 gives affordable performance with more power, and the Yaesu FT-818ND remains a proven all-band portable rig. Because every POTA activation has different conditions, the best radio depends on your operating style and the type of parks you plan to activate.
Each of these radios ensures reliable communication and enjoyable portable operations in the field.