Xiegu X5105 vs. Elecraft KX2: Which should you buy?
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- Опубликовано: 27 окт 2021
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Thanks for watching!
73,
Thomas
K4SWL 
Наука
x5105 owner here, there are a couple things you can do to help with audio, I picked up a $10 bluetooth speaker from Walmart with an aux-in port, it improved the audio significantly I think some of the issues of the x5105 is that the pre-amp to the speaker gets overloaded and the speaker is a tiny little speaker. By adding the external speaker turning the internal volume up to only 50% and using the bluetooth speaker it's like a whole new radio in terms of sound/receiving quality. Something else that can be done (although requires a laptop/computer), is tap into the I/F out port on the side of the radio, you can connect this to a $25 RTL-SDR dongle and it sends the IF out around 70MHz, then use computer based RF decoding for even probably more accurate/better receiving quality. The KX2 is still the better radio no doubt, but for those out there trying to get the most value for the $ it's hard to beat the x5105.
Excellent suggestions!
Fantastic review ! Thanks for posting . Now you have to bring the Lab 599 into the mix !
I just pre-ordered the Xiegu X6100, which appears to be a somewhat evolved version of the 5105. I've been saving up for an IC-705, but the low price of the Xiegu means the fun can happen sooner! Thanks for the fine review and comparison.
Will love to hear your thoughts once you've had it on the air for a while!
@pixoariz
Have you had a chance to use it yet?
Great.comparison Thomas. I appreciate your honest pro's and con's and all the practical functions of the radio's. 👍🤠
Another great video...thank you! I always look forward to your next videos. I also enjoy getting in your log. I was facing this same decision about a year and a half ago. A guy I met through Facebook, made me a great offer on the KX2, shack-in-a-box bundle. I jumped at the offer and have not been disappointed. The receiver is excellent and I consistently receive good signal reports. The internal tuner is great. When I'm working portable, I use two 25' pieces of wire for the antenna (a vertical and ground radial.) The tuner will match it from 10m-40m and I have reached all corners of the continental U.S., plus Alaska, Canada, Europe, and Puerto Rico. It's a great radio. But, having said that, I probably would have been happy with the X5105 too!. Thanks again... John (AF8E)
Thank you for sharing that, John!
I own the X5105 and you’re observations are spot on. The Harbor Freight analogy was perfect. I’m stealing it
Steal away! :)
Loved the Harbor Freight power pole crimper analogy! Can really relate. Tnx for the video, very informative.
Glad it was helpful!
I would agree with your assessment. I started with a FT-817 long before X5105 was available and yes its a good radio not a great radio. The KX2 has become my favorite radio as well because its such a please to operate an its easy to take on a plane.
Excellent review!
Thank you kindly!
Well I just picked up a nice used KX2 so I guess my choice is made! I'm super excited to get it next week.
You'll love it!
As an owner of a Xiegu G90 I'd run with the KX2 as well. I have a feeling that the Elecraft would have a better build quality. Just thoughts...
@@Andy71 Same here.
I love this review format. I can detect your feelings rather than just giving a cold specification review. I can review the specifications on paper. Now I am off to look at your KX2 vs. KX3 review. That was an easy choice for me since the KX2 did not exist when I bought my KX3, but I have thought I might someday buy a KX2 for field use and keep the KX3 for shack use. Still thinking about that. --Mark, KE6BB
Thank you, Mark. This is exactly what I did: I got the KX3 in 2013, then bought the KX2 in 2016. The KX2 was my primary field radio for years. I still love taking the KX3 to the field, but the KX2 is just so easy, the KX3 gets more shack time now. Cheers, Thomas
Good info in a pleasant format. Nicely done. From the "wet" end of I26, 73 AK4LA
The "wet" end! I love it. :)
I own the kx2 it is terrific. Very ergonomic too
Two things that made me decide on kx2. 1.Easier Access to service and support. 2. Lithium ion battery technology on the kx2 vs lipo on the 5105.
Nice to see them side by side. KX2 is eye watering expensive (same in pounds as dollars), but I don't regret for a moment purchasing it. I love the fact you can use the KX2 as a walkie talkie. My friend has a X5105 which has given much pleasure. I totally agree if you can afford it buy the kx2. I also think I wouldn't risk travelling abroad with such an expensive radio. A Xeigu could fit the bill here for me too. 73 Steve MW0SAW
Very good points, Steve!
I chose a KX2 for a few simple reasons: size, weight, ATU and 10w on internal battery. As a backpacker the KX2 is the perfect portable rig IMO, the amazing receiver is just the icing on the cake. My other fav QRP rig is my IC-703+, which again has an ATU and 10w but is a bit too large and heavy for longer excursions in the wilderness for me.
Thanks for sharing. I'm 100% with you on the KX2. Curious: I've an IC-703 Plus as well. Sometimes, the keyer has issues depending on the antenna I'm using. I have an in-line choke, but guessing a bit of RF may be coming back and interfering? Have you ever experienced this with the '703?
@@ThomasK4SWL Funny you mention it, as I actually have had something similar happen on my 703. I've noticed it when doing FT8. Transmitting would start and it'd knock out connection to the rig. I also assumed RF was interfering with the connected cables somehow. I wrapped every cable plugged into the rig with clip-on ferrite beads (mix 31) and the problem seemed to go away. I don't do CW just Digi & SSB (which is why I prefer a 10w rig) but your keyer issues sound like the exact same thing. Now that I know it's not just me or my setup I feel like I should investigate this more...
As the proud owner of a dead G90, I'd go with the KX2.
I have heard of G90s failing from being left on the shelf. I kinda like the 5105 but with my luck I would get a dog. An expensive brick.
So I’ve solved the problem of which to have by owning both 🤣 I’m a big fan of the Xeigu, but my word the receive filter is exhausting to listen to for more than half an hour. However, it’s an absolute life saver when it comes to trimming antennas in the wild -the live swr sweep is a fantastic function, and it boggles my mind that more expensive radios like the IC 705 don’t implement something similar. That said, when I go out for a POTA activation, it’s usually a KX2 in my backpack. Mainly because *10 watts*, but also it’s just nicer to work with, the experience of Elecrafts engineering team and beta testers just shines through.
I can so completely agree with you! Spot on.
I have a flex 5000, icom 7300 and the kx2 in the shack. The kx2 is my favorite rig to use and more urban friendly than the other 2.
You've got some great rigs there! Yeah, no doubt, the KX2 gets more airtime than any other radios I own because it's so effective and so portable. It's never let me down. :)
I have the KX2 and the Xiegu 5105. The receiver on the KX2 is slightly less noisy than the x5105. But the X5105 has at least an equivalent ATU, illuminated keys plus 6 and 160m and is much more robust than the Elecraft in outdoor use. The battery will last for many hours of CW or FT8 continuous use. Its only downside is that the speaker in the case is too small. I usually use the Xiegu with an earphone at Sota, which bothers fewer climbers up there anyway.
I do not use radios with internal batteries for 2 main reasons. 1. They can fail and damage my expensive radio. 2. Battery technology changes. I use a 3S LiPo pack as my external battery. And a side note... My K2 only draws 220mA on receive in performance mode. Or 200mA in battery mode.
My QRP rig adventure started with a 705. I quickly bought an X6100, but returned it as it felt less refined compared to the 705. I sold some things and bought a used KX3 (was looking for a KX2) and eventually bought another X6100. I now only have a KX3 and the X6100, with an order in for a KX2. Which radio will go away once the KX2 finally arrives? I'm leaning towards the X6100. I kept it to use for digital modes when SSB or CW don't get an activation done. But it doesn't seem to play all that well with WJST-X. So I ordered a Digirig Mobile. Eagerly awaiting my KX2, but it will be several weeks/months.
Thanks for the review it’s nice to see comparisons. By the way, the Xiegu X6100 comes out on presale today. It would be nice to see a comparison between that and the IC-705.
That is definitely going to happen! I suspect KN3A might even get to it first!
When Eric designed the Elecraft radios, he took great pride in their high dynamic range capability. While not in the Collins S-Line range, they far surpass a typical solid state radio and will pretty much blow any SDR front end.
I just wish there was waterproofing. Too many unsealed openings. Not downpour proof but somewhat water resistant for the price. It’s qrp but costs more than a 7300.
Kx 2 is sdr
I haven't bought an HF rig yet, but my first one will be something like one of these. And I would LOVE to buy an American made product, but my budget isn't going to allow that any time soon.
It's not SSB, but QRP labs QCX and QDX combo would cover CW and digital for a great price.
There is an internal charger module now for the KX2 that allows charging the internal battery from 12 volts. :)
Yep! Installed mine shortly after they started shipping.
We have a saying here in VK Land..."Buy cheap buy twice" simple but reliable saying. But each to their own. I only have ratchet crimping tools but that's because I spent 20 years as an electronics tech in the Navy and war canoes are brutal environments!
War canoes! No doubt that's an environment for proper gear. :)
Great comparison. "Service center?" Where is the service center for the Xiegu? I am waited with baited breath for the X6100 to come out. For the price of either, they are great little radios. I wish Elecraft would come out with a KX4 that would have a nice pan adapter display and I sure hope they make it so you can charge the battery without removing it !
I have a four band YouKits, IC 703+, KX3 and a KX2. My KX2 is my go to QRP radio. It's a super little radio. My QRP portable is in the KISS Mode. I carry as little as possible and only what's needed.
Thanks for posting this great video.
Barry, KU3X/QRP
Scott (KN3A) has an X6100 on pre-order and will be posting a very early review on QRPer.com. Radioddity is also sending me a review loaner, but it might be a few weeks after the first production batch.
And you might ask Radioddity about Xiegu service. I'm not sure, but they may have a facility in Nevada that does warranty work. With that said, I doubt it can compete with Elecraft customer service.
Cheers,Thomas
@@ouijim I am thinking your failures happened shortly after you purchased them? ......What happens two years down the road? Is there an actual service location within the US? Sending something back to China, for me, is not an option.
Barry, KU3X
@@barrykery1175 That's where I am now, a dead or comatose G90 with no service available for it. I won't bother returning to China. I won't bother with Chinese toys anymore either.
My kx3 I added a passband roofing filter as an option. Is that an option for the kx2? Or is it built in? I don’t see it as an option on the Elecraft site for the kx2.
There is no optional roofing filter for the KX2.
Thanks Thomas for the comparison between these two radios. There is a way to turn the charging system off on the 5105. If you hold down the menu button, you'll get a sub menu that will allow you to adjust the screen brightness etc and one of the options is to turn the charger off. I normally keep the battery charged and then turn the charger off while using the radio at the house (still have the cable attached). I ordered a tx500 not too long ago because I live in the Pacific North-Wet. I'm still going to keep the 5105 because one can never have too many radios, right? Keep up the great work! Clint-KJ7LLS
"One can never have too many radios." Words to live by! (Although the XYL would disagree.)
You'll love the TX-500. I'll admit that when I take it to the field, I worry much less about wet weather surprising me.
Cheers,
Thomas
K4SWL
Is some of the harsh audio in the X5105 due to the internal speaker? Does it sound the same sound qualities when using headphones? Thanks for another great video!
The X5105 sounds much better with a good external speaker. Headphones or earphones? I find the audio pretty harsh. Once I used earphones for about a 90+ minute long activation with the X5105 and found it much more fatiguing than with almost any other radio I currently own.
Concerning the test of the receive capabilities of both radios, the preamp appears to be on, on the X5105: was it also switched on, on the Elecraft? The preamp will exaggerate the noise.
I typically run the preamp on 20 meters (and up) with most of my radios. The preamp will definitely make any noise more pronounced, but across the board, the G90, X5105 and X6100 all have higher noise floors and less refined audio than the KX2.
Great comparison video Thomas❗️ I sure hope that I haven’t made a big mistake but this morning I played an pre order at Radioddity for the Xiegu X6100. I have been looking for my first QRP Radio and based on reviews on RUclips and cost I decided on the X5105 but the difference in price of only 39.00 i opted for the X6100, I WISHWD I HAD SEEN THIS FIRST. WHISH ME LUCK❗️ 73 KV5P
I'm hoping that the X6100 will have even more improvements and iterative updates over the X5105. I'm very curious what some of the first reports might look like. I have one incoming, but likely a few weeks after the first production run (mine will be a loaner).
@@ThomasK4SWL I cant wait for your review, your comparison videos are excellent, I was going to order the X5105 but the difference in price was only $39.00 so opted for the X6100, hope I didn’t make a mistake. 73. KV5P
Now the kx2 will do 12 watts out on some of the bands with 13.8 external power,(latest update). Wish it did 6 meters. But it’s rarely open. I’m limited what I can put into radio equipment because I have to many hobbies as it is. And a marriage to preserve.
"A marriage to preserve"--Ha ha! I think we all can relate, friend!
The KX2 is such great radio. Since I purchased mine several months ago, it has become my go to radio. I simply does everything Elecraft says it can do with no excuses and no idiosyncrasies. It is well worth the price.
Hear, hear!
Hopefully there will be some big sales on the 5105 when the new 6100 is released. (Fingers crossed)
That is entirely possible! I would hope so, at least. At present, they're near identical in pricing.
Power output is important if if if you think you would ever use this radio driving a linear amplifier of any kind 5 watches pretty low whereas 10 watts is plenty I'll drive power for all of the modern liners that are sold today.
I know I have recommended in the past a newcomer by one KX2 and the Italian made linear amplifier with so many features beyond amplifying, companies SPE an advertised online. That amplifier will take 10 watts up to 2 kilowatt SSB output and the 2K-FA model includes a automatic antenna tuner ,automatic antenna switch over the band you program, RF power meter and other features that make it a complete station with those two rigs and low prices--- check buying the SPE from the factory online advertisement it was less than 5000 USD.
I own KX3. I had for 5 days a Xiegu 5105.
Battery is much better on Xiegu than on KX3, also you are able to see all time the battery state. And also charging is way faster than on KX3 But the advantage of the KX3 it's that you are able to change the batteries...Also, using quality AA batteries, you are able to operate of quite log time (3-4 hours). KX3 it's drawing less energy than Xiegu (200mA in RX and 1A on 5W operation...xiegu something around 350mA in RX and 1.5-2A on TRX). The ATU it's better on KX3 (swr 10 on KX3, 6 on Xiegu), but on Xiegu had much faster ATU. Also the VFO is more easy to use on KX3...but in the same time...the vfo knob on KX3 it's working too easy...so if you are on the speaker...sometimes you are able to see how VFO knob it's moving ...slow. I like how easy you are able to change CW speed, power etc... on KX3. So it's more easy to operate on the field. The speaker...on KX3 it's...hmmm...how to say...like s**t...and this si in good days. The speaker on Xiegu it's million miles better... And now the receiver...on xiegu it's...like speaker on KX3...I also have Xiegu G90....and the receiver is the same...it's one of the weakest that I had, it's very noisy, if you have a week station that you are barely hear on KX3 but you are able to work that station...on Xiegu you not will even know that it's there (it's true, I have CW filter in KX3), So if you have money and it's not a problem for you that you wait 16 hours to charge the battery...go for KX3...otherways...go for X5105...is very nice portable rig...and you will have a lot of joy, very compact...and you need just a wire as antenna...to operate...
Oh...by the way...KX3 don't have internal mic...but I don't play on SSB...so I can't give more info here (in fact...I think that I don't know where I put the mic from my KX3...)
Excellent points! Thank you for sharing.
@@ThomasK4SWL You have activate a pota today...I was able to hear you for 2 mins in YO (around 18:55 UTC)...I called you...but there was no answer...after two mins..I wasn't able to hear you anymore.
@@bolovanro conditions were strange today. I was only running 5 w with the KX2/AX1 under a shelter with a metal roof! (It was raining.)
@@ThomasK4SWL Odd...the odd think it's that I was able for 2 mins to hear you with 5W...there are 4500 miles between YO and east coast of US. I hope that one day we will be able to make a QSO
@@bolovanro we'll be able to make contact someday! I work west coast stations in most of my activations when I hop on 20M.
Buy the one built in USA where you can have your radio repaired if ever needed.
I'm going to wait to see how it all shakes out. Right now the KX2 is still back ordered 6 to 8 weeks. That's around the same time period when the X6100 will be out and widely reviewed. If the X6100 turns out to be a real winner. Then I might just get the X6100 instead of the KX2. If the X6100 turns out to be a buggy basket case, then the KX2 looks more likely. Availability is everything too. If Elecraft can't get a hold of their 2 month backlog, that's going to tip sales in favor to the X6100. If the Xiegu X6100 turns out to be a winner and they could produce enough of them , I could see an opportunity to pick up a used X5105 for $350 - $400 (or less) in a few months. .
These are exciting times, indeed! Especially for those of us who love field radio.
Thanks. Has anyone saight warramty repair on the XIEGU? (I miss the K 1-4 with ATU and wish Elecraft would offer it factory built) 73 de KF6VCI
I know that the retailers cover warranty issues. I thought there was a US-based repair center in NV (?). I fully agree. In fact, I've kind of had my eye out for another K1 4 band with ATU. I had one, loved it, then sold it when I got the KX3. :( Regretting that decision.
after the warrentee expires... ?????
you could TAP THREADS into that heat sink
to mount that keyer on the Xiegu.......
should be able to get threads
deep enuf to keep it all secured to the radio....
just a location thought... the bolts used would have to be pretty thin to fit within the FINS if you use that as ''thickness''...
I sure do want one of EITHER whichever decides to make its way to me **I** would be uberhappy!! :)
Great ideas!
Thinking about beta testing ……. Will you become a surrogate beta tester for the Xiegu 6100? 🤔
Actually Scott (KN3A) will be doing this for us. He'll post a report on QRPer when he receives his X6100. I will get a loaner from Radioddity, but likely after the first production run.
These two radios are great but you really really have to compare both to the Rock Solid Lab599 TX-500 - nothing like it in the market. Both these radios are great for park benches, but when the going gets tough, forget these two radios - you need weather proof and you need Russian made, Chinese and American Radios are , well , built for softies. LoL
Go QRO! Lol right. Just wanted to come on and mess with Thomas, whose 5 watt signal I can never pickup while hunting. The recieve filtering on my Xiegu G90 is just horrible. Great radio, otherwise. Have a nice day! 🙂
Ha ha! Someday I'll warm the clouds with a full...wait for it...15 watts!!! Just so I can work you, OM!
@@ThomasK4SWL OMG, 15 watts! 🤯 You will have to send me an email in advance, I do not want to miss that high power action! 😬
@@stephenw8dbc882 I'm so glad you're not being sarcastic, buddy! ;)
@@ThomasK4SWL 🤙
Wait, are you referring to the Argonaut V? Doesn't the 516 run 20 watts?
I ordered a KX2 a couple of weeks ago. Not expecting it for a few more weeks (or more!). I got the KX3 a year ago and really like it but wanted something a little more field friendly (they both are really). I like your review. Very helpful. Thanks! KE8PAG
You'll love the KX2!
Thomas, kx2 more expensive than x5105
More than twice more expensive when similarly equipped!
For twice the price the KX2 should sound better.
And it does. The front end is orders of magnitude better. The X5105 struggles with RF-dense environments like Field Day and also pileups.
Maybe wait for the X6100..., and PLEASE, it's she-eh-gu, not zygu.
Ha ha! I know. I need to be pronouncing it like Josh at HRCC. :) He's pronounced it correctly from day 1.
Xiegu X5105 has only one strong point compared with KX2 - It is a less expensive.
It does have 160M and 6M coverage which the KX2 lacks, but yes, no doubt the price is the biggest attraction.
Remember that the products by "cn" are not original
So you pay 1200 Dollars for a radio and then they "Nickle & Dime" you for the accessories! Enough said. The crimp analagy doesn't work! The only question that needs answering is whether or not they both make reliable electrical connections? Sounds like they do. Does your wife have trouble ironing your pants? Getting that crease out from your fence sitting must be a real issue! :-) Make a choice and stick with it please!!! This is now the third video where you sit on the fence...
So first off, I'll hearby refund your money on the three fence-sitting videos. :) It's back in your bank account now!
Secondly, I made it pretty clear: the KX2 is my choice radio. It's one of the finest field radios ever made. The X5105 is still a viable option, though, for those on a budget. It's rough around the edges, but it works and I actually like it. Turns out, I can like both of these radios.
My assumption is that individuals will use this info to make their own educated decisions based on their needs and requirements instead of me telling them what to do.
@@ThomasK4SWL So Zombies are beating down your door. Which radio are you going to grab and go? Will it be the IC705, The FT817nd, The Xiegu5100, The LAB599 TX500 or the Elecraft KX2? Which one wins? Remember we don't review radios and have to choose which one to spend our hard earned money on.
@@neilhankey2514 oh my giddy aunt. This is worthy of a long post or separate video. :) I will--in due time--give you an answer. Just complicated to explain my reasoning.