Having an antenna is important, but you also need an antenna analyzer if you want to get the best performance from your antenna. An antenna analyzer troubleshoots any problem in an antenna and enhances its importance.
But buying an antenna analyzer is not an easy task. You will be shocked to see how many antenna analyzers are present in the market, and choosing one from them can feel like a headache. To make things simple for you, we have curated a list of the antenna analyzer reviews.
These antenna analyzers are the ones that are trusted by many. They provide excellent performance. Hence, making them the best. You can also take the help of the buying guide to help you find the best antenna analyzer for the money which is most ideal for you. So, without wasting any more time, let us get to the topic.
Table of Contents
7 Best Antenna Analyzer for the Money Reviews
1. AURSINC NanoVNA Vector Network Analyzer 10KHz -1.5GHz V3.4 HF VHF UHF Antenna Analyzer Measuring S Parameters, Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, Phase, Delay, Smith Chart – Top Pick
This antenna analyzer from Aursing is one of the best antenna analyzers in the market. It has received positive reviews from people. The Analyzer allows you to set it up quickly without anyone else’s help.
This antenna is built with a frequency algorithm that is improved which uses an odd harmonic extension of si5351 to help the frequency measurement up to 1.5 GHz.
It has a frequency range of si5351 is 50 kHz to 300 MHz, and it has better output than 70db. To measure the antenna’s performance, the default firmware is used. QEX has reviewed this product.
Why is it Unique?
It has a 2.8 inches LCD type display and weighs 63 grams. This analyzer is portable and can be carried anywhere you go. It has a metal shield that reduces the interferences caused by external factors and enhances the measuring accuracy.
Buyer’s Experience
Customers are delighted with their buys. This antenna has offered a lot of features that have impressed the buyers. It comes with a touchscreen, thereby making it an attractive investment.
Best Fit For
This antenna analyzer is a perfect accessory to your house. It allows you to calculate the input impedance of an antenna to radios. You can buy it at a reasonable price from Amazon.
Pros
Cons
- [Designed for DIY] This nanovna is a DIY product (no enclosure) that provides perfect vector network measurement...
- [Licensing and Firmware] Developed by Hugen, more info pls view "[email protected]". The firmware version of nano...
- [Measurement Frequency] Measurement frequency of nanovna is 10KHz - 1.5GHz (50KHz -900MHz, enable extended firmware)....
- [PC Control] Designed a practical and simple control application on PC, you can download touchstone(SNP) files for radio...
2. Nanovna 10KHz-1.5Ghz Vector Network Analyzer Kit,SEESII MF HF VHF UHF Antenna Analyzer Measuring S Parameters, Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, Phase, Delay, Smith Chart with 2.8″ Touch Screen – Best Performance
This antenna from Nanovna has an impressive battery life of 650 mAh. To display the network on a larger screen, you can connect the Analyzer using the USB type C port. The antenna allows you to measure both S11 and S21 parameters.
The compact size of the antenna analyzer does not compromise the working of the analyzer. It is powerful and is built with an open, load, and short for calibration like some cables.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna comes with a 2.8 inches LCD type display and along with a weight of 63 grams. This analyzer is portable and can be carried anywhere you go. It has a touchscreen of 2.8 inches that allows you to control all the settings and work on the analyzer. You can also use the wheel function to set things in motion.
Buyer’s Experience
The size of this antenna analyzer, along with the touchscreen feature, has attracted many customers. They have given good ratings about the product as well. Some of the users have urged others to use the touchscreen carefully as it can get damaged easily.
Best Fit For
This analyzer is perfect for a ham radio user. If you have a ham radio at home, this is the ideal analyzer for you. It gives you an accurate reading of the frequencies.
Pros
Cons
- Unit is designed to fit for Original Equipment, form and function Simple and practical PC control software, you can...
- The improved frequency algorithm can use the odd harmonic extension of si5351 to support the measurement frequency up to...
- The extended 300M-600MHz band provides better than 60dB of dynamics, and the 600M-900M band is better than 50dB of...
- Requirements accomplished by leveraging Spectra Premium's OE engine management systems design expertise.Platinum...
3. SEESII Nanovna-H Vector Network Analyzer,10KHz-1.5GHz MF HF VHF UHF Antenna Analyzer Measuring S Parameters, Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, Phase, Delay, Smith Chart – Easy To Use
Seesii Direct is one of the best sellers of analyzers for antennas. Whenever there is an error with the reading or range of frequency changes, you can perform calibration to give you the correct reading.
This analyzer is built with an open load and short for calibration like some cables. You can set up this analyzer very quickly. SWR readings are precise for tuning antennas within a frequency range of 50 kHz to 900 MHz.
Smith Chart will help you to find out the resistance and react antenna for an antenna. It can be connected to Android mobile phones and supports time.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna is designed with a metal shield and can lessen the external interferences and increase the accuracy of the measurement. It has a battery life of 650 mAh that can last for about 3 hours. To display the readings on a larger scale, you can connect them to your desktop or computer with a C-type USB cable.
Buyer’s Experience
Most of the buyers are pleased with their buys. They liked the features offered by this analyzer. Buyers have enjoyed the touchscreen facility and the accuracy of the analyzer.
Best Fit For
This analyzer is an excellent accessory to your homes. It allows you to know about the readings of your antennas in a different range of frequencies. This antenna analyzer is perfect for ham radio users.
Pros
Cons
- ✅ 【Upgraded Nanovna-H HW3.6】: SeeSii Nanovna-H Vector Network Analyzer is developed by Hugen. With latest 3.6...
- ✅ 【Improved Frequency Algoruthm】: The improved frequency algorithm can use the odd harmonic extension of si5351 to...
- ✅ 【Multi TX/RX Function】:The default firmware is mainly used for antenna performance measurement. The TX/RX method...
- ✅ 【Android Phone & PC Software Control】:The nanovna analyzer uses PC software NanoVNASaver, it can connect to a...
4. Vector Network Analyzer, Elikliv Mini HF VHF UHF Antenna Analyzer with 10KHz-1.5GHz 2.8 Inch Digital LCD Display Touching Screen Standing Wave Measuring Instrument – Best Overall
Elikliv is one of the famous brands dealing with accessories for antennas. This antenna analyzer applies the odd harmonic extension of si5351 to help frequencies up to 900 MHz. To complete the measurements of S11 and S21 parameters TR/ RX method is used.
To receive measurements for S12 and S22 receiver transport wiring gas to be changed manually. To display readings, you have the touch and wheel option. You can find all the measurements and data under the Smith Chart.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna analyzer from Vector has a 2.8 inches LCD type of display and is small in size. You can carry it anywhere you want as it is portable and has a battery that can be recharged every couple of hours.
This antenna is built with the latest features and has a metal shield that can reduce external interferences and provides an accurate reading.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers are delighted with their purchase. It fits in their budget and provides accurate readings. In addition to it, the analyzer is built with suitable quality materials and has a touchscreen display, making it attractive to many customers.
Best Fit For
This antenna analyzer is a good choice for you if you are looking to give you accurate readings. The build of this analyzer is satisfactory as well. You can give this one a try.
Pros
Cons
- 💜[Upgraded Antenna Analyzer V4.3] The Upgraded NanoVNA-H4 Version features a larger resistive touchscreen (4 inch)and...
- 💜[Must Have for Radio Operator or Enthusiast] This spectrum analyzer will be a nice little addition to the workbench,...
- 💜[Improved Performance & Built Quality] The 4 inch NanoVNA-H4 is a great upgrade to the 2.8"" screen. Its performance...
- 💜[PC Control]: This nanoVNA can be controlled by PC using software VNA Saver. The software has a number of features...
5. Antenna Analyzer Meter 1-60MHz Shortwave SWR Antenna Analyzer with 1.0 to 9.99 SWR Usable Measurement Range For Ham Radio – Best Featured
This antenna analyzer is made of good quality material and has a black case to protect the analyzer from external damage. The compact meter can be carried around easily. It is powered between DC 12 to 14 V 500mA along with a 2.1mmcentrer pin.
This antenna has an SWR usable measurement range between 1.0 to 9.99. It has a button to switch on and off the power. The different applications where this analyzer can be used are ground loss, inductors, capacitors, SWR, and impedance, that is, resistance and reactance. It comes with a manual.
Why is it Unique?
The antenna analyzer has different modes like impedance that is the default mode, complex impedance, inductance, and capacitance. You can select any bands within 160 M to 60M. It has five operations that are easy and convenient to use.
Buyer’s Experience
Customers are pleased with their purchases as it can be easily used and has good features and many operating modes. Plus, it is a good value for money.
Best Fit For
This antenna analyzer is the best choice for ham radio enthusiasts. It has different operating systems, which can choose depending on your purpose. You can even use it in a house with kids, as the black case can protect the analyzer from damage.
Pros
Cons
- HIGH QUALITY-- This Antenna Analyzer adopts black case would protect the antenna analyzer from external damage, durable...
- HIGH QUALITY-- This Antenna Analyzer adopts black case would protect the antenna analyzer from external damage, durable...
- CONVENIENT OPERATION-- 5 operation buttons are easy and convenient to operate. You can selects operation mode, band and...
- FEATURE-- The antenna tester is Powered by DC 12 to 14V 500mA external power with 2.1mm power jack(center pin positive),...
6. NanoVna V2 VNA Vector Network Analyzer 10KHz -3GHz HF VHF UHF Antenna Analyzer Measuring S Parameters, Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, Phase, Delay, Smith Chart with 1950mAh (S-A-A-2) – Best Touch Screen
This antenna analyzer was designed after a collaboration with OwOComm. With this analyzer, you can read the measurements and readings on a computer after downloading their software. It can be installed easily.
The antenna has a compact structure and has an upgraded frequency algorithm that can support frequencies up to 3 GHz.
To measure S11 and S21 parameters completely, the RX method is used. It has a battery that can go up to 6 hours without charging.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna analyzer has a frequency in the range of 10 k to 3 GHz. It can be upgraded up to 10 GHz when updated, so if you want a higher frequency range, update it. It has a sweep rate of 100 points per second and a display of 2.8 inches. The antenna analyzer has two ports and a lithium-ion battery.
Buyer’s Experience
The touchscreen feature and the accuracy of the antenna have attracted a lot of customers. They have given positive ratings and reviews about the product. Some of them had recommended this analyzer to their friends as well.
Best Fit For
This antenna analyzer is a good choice for your house. If you have a ham station, this analyzer would be a perfect pair for it. It has an excellent sweeping range, and it has many great features. So if you are looking for an analyzer for your antennas, this is a good one.
Pros
Cons
7. Upgraded NanoVNA-F V2 Vector Network Analyzer 50kHz-3000MHz HF VHF UHF VNA Antenna Analyzer 4.3 inch with 5000mAh, Measuring S-Parameter Voltage SWR, Phase, delay, Smith Chart – Best Durable
Upgraded NanoVNA-F comes with a larger display compared with other antenna analyzers. The display is touchscreen and LCD, and you can read the measurements in outdoor solid lights.
You can also use this analyzer to recharge your mobile phones. It takes less time for you to charge the battery.
The SMA head is built using a good quality aluminum shell to protect it from damage and electromagnetic interferences. You can upgrade it by updating the antenna after going to the company’s official site.
Why is it Unique?
This antenna has a measurement frequency in the range of 50 kHz to 3 GHz. The analyzer has a display of 4.3 inches along with a lithium-ion battery of 5000 mAh. It had 101 calibration and scanning points. The time is taken to scan us 1.9s /1 time, and the analyzer has a more extended stand-by time.
Buyer’s Experience
While most customers are pleased with the touchscreen and the built of this antenna analyzer, some customers are displeased with the company for not offering a warranty. The reading provided by this analyzer is very accurate.
Best Fit For
If you want to put an eye on the reading of your antenna, this is a good choice for you. It is recommended to keep it away from kids, as this company has a no warranty policy, so you cannot replace it.
Pros
Cons
- 【4.3 inch Large Touch screen and powerful function】Handheld Vector Network Analyzer using 4.3-inch IPS TFT LCD...
- 【Higher Capacity Battery,and Longer Standby time】 Upgraded the large capacity 5000mA-h 3.7V battery, longer standby...
- 【Upgraded Aluminium Housing 】 Standard aluminium shell to protect SMA head and reduce the interference of external...
- 【Measurement Range】 The NanoVNA-F measurement range is 50k-3GHz. You can go to the official website to update and...
Buyer’s Guide : Factors To Consider Before Purchasing One
It can be pretty challenging for anyone to choose a suitable antenna analyzer from a vast range available in the market. Also, antenna analyzers differ on various aspects such as build-up, integration, function, and features.
To make your task easier and help you make a choice, we have provided you with a buying guide that enlists all the important factors one should consider while making a purchase.
1. Frequency Range
This is an essential element of an antenna analyzer that the user must access before looking for any other feature. It is advisable to opt for an antenna analyzer with higher frequencies for desirable results.
For ham radio, the frequency range is between 16 MHz to 27 MHz, while if you are using radio to track weather or trace airplanes, you will require to operate at much higher frequencies.
It is preferable to have an antenna analyzer with a frequency range of 50 kHz to 300 MHz, suitable for a wide range of applications.
2. Display
A good quality display is required to understand the measurements of an antenna analyzer. Usually, antenna analyzers are provided with a touch screen LCD which makes the application easier for the user. The minimum display size ranges from 2.8 to 4.3 inches.
The touch screen feature also improves the functionality of the antenna analyzer as it can be used for a wide range of measurements. Also, the users find the parameters of the antenna system easy to read and understand.
3. User Interface
The interface refers to the parts of the gadgets users interact with. This includes the screen and other buttons or switches present. The user interface also plays a significant role in deciding whether an antenna analyzer is worth buying for a beginner.
It is recommended to look for an antenna analyzer with simple integrations and functionality. If the user interface is difficult for the user to understand, he may not be able to utilize the analyzer properly. For this, one should go for convenient switches, a more prominent display, and easy functionality.
4. Battery Capacity
The battery capacity plays an important part in determining the longevity of the performance of an antenna analyzer. Batteries with high capacities are more effective for long-duration applications, while low capacity batteries drain faster and require frequent charging.
It is preferable to go for a battery capacity of 2500 to 5000 mAh. An antenna analyzer may have rechargeable batteries or replaceable batteries. Go for an in-built battery that is rechargeable if you want a cost-effective tool.
5. Unshielded or Shielded
Some VNA’s are shielded with a hard casing of any metal like aluminum. The shielding offers two major advantages. Firstly, it offers supreme protection to the inner elements from prolonged use of an impact.
Secondly, it removes disturbances. But shielding prevents the case from opening in case you want to look into the interior circuits of VNA.
Unshielded VNA’s do not offer protection hence affect the performance of VNA after usage. It is up to you to decide whether you want accessibility or protection.
6. Price
You can find various antenna analyzers in your budget. The price of products varies depending on the features, design, etc. but make sure whatever money you are investing, and you are getting enough value for it.
This can be achieved by comparing different products in your price range and choosing the best one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the function of an antenna analyzer, and how to tune an antenna?
A1. An antenna analyzer, also known as Noise Bridge, RX Bridge, SWR analyzer, or RF analyzer, is used to measure and calculate the input impedance of the cable and antenna system. This tool mainly finds its application in the field of radio electronics. It is a common tool used in radio communications systems for fine tuning antenna, troubleshooting, and feedline performance. They are used for measuring complex impedances and are necessary when tuning multi-tower antennas.
To tune an antenna, several steps must be followed.
First, attach the radio to the source socket on the SWR meter using a coaxial cable.
The second step is to attach the antenna to the socket with the help of a coaxial cable on the SWR meter.
The third step is to set the radio to minimum power value and FM/CW mode. Then tune to the lowermost band.
Q2. How to check whether an antenna is working properly or not and how to test it with a multimeter?
A2. You can easily find whether your antenna is functioning properly or not. The steps to check it is:
a. Turn the signal meter of the antenna on.
b. Tune in to the lowermost broadcast channel.
c. Then rotate the antenna to 360 degrees.
d. Stop at the highest signal strength.
e. Read the direction of the antenna signal with the help of a compass and record the value.
f. Follow the steps mentioned below to test the antenna with a multimeter:
g. Attach the lead of the multimeter to the metal part of the antenna.
h. Then touch the second lead to the metalcore of the cable.
i. The ohms reading must be zero.
j. If the resistance is larger than the ideal one, the cable or antenna is damaged, and the signal will not reach the receiver.
Q3. What is return loss in an antenna?
A3. In simple terms, return loss is the proportion of the radio waves rejected to the waves that are accepted waves in decibels (dB). It is said that the return loss value should be below ten but, but it may vary in different antennas. Return loss higher than this is a sign of inadequate performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, if you are interested in ham radio, an important tool one should obtain is an antenna analyzer. It will help you identify the suitability of antennas for different purposes. You now must be familiar with antenna analyzers suitable for your needs.
But before getting yourself one, check all the integrations and factors of the tool provided in the buying guide above. We hope this article is useful in your quest for the best antenna analyzer for the money.
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API