Thanks for posting. IMHO, these are different electronic measurement instruments. One was designed for antenna tuning work in mind, possibly in the field, as in a radio tower. The other one is more suitable for lab use. It turns out the nanoVNA does so many things it can also be used as an antenna analyzer. It can be used to tune filters, measure gain or insertion loss, serves as a signal generator, can also measure cable length, in simpler words, it is a two port network analyzer, not a single port antenna analyzer. I also favor the nanoVNA because replacing it with another one is less painful. My two most important electronics and RF tools today are the DMM and the nanoVNA. If I did audio or low freq work, then also the oscilloscope. My 2 cents. 🙂
Thanks Jorge, Outstanding insight and I wish I had thought to put it in the video. I appreciate you bringing it up so others can benefit from your knowledge.
I own both. I like my NanoVNA best because it lets me play more. There’s more “hands on” to make it work. It requires more thinking and understanding to work it properly. I liken the RigExpert to a car with an auto trans, and the NanoVNA to a car with a manual trans.
Great analogy Steve. I also have both but my go-to is the RigExpert as one it is much more rugged for field use and I can get done quicker and get operating which is the goal doing POTA/SOTA
Hi, I also like Rigexpert Stick for idea, simplicity and form-factor. But there is version of basic nanoVNA with small screen which is smaller, lighter and outperform stick by available function (which perform for field use). Learning curve is also a good part of nanoVNA, user will learn something new instead of "stars" for good or bad SWR. But most interesting part is price of small nanoVNA comparing with RigExpert. Price 350$ showed on official site but usually price much bigger in Europe (around 500$) which would be deal breaker for me. Comparing with price 50$ for small nanoVNA - it is gift tool for this price. The last thing, using nanoVNA you are able to more convenient way tune multi-band antennas like EFHW, OCF, etc as you are able to see SWR from 0 to 30MHz (full HF).
Bob years ago I purchased a MFJ259 I looked at you list of videos about analyzers. The newer models in your videos are above my current knowledge base. Thus I thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. You have made me realize the differences between models perhaps you might consider a video including the MFJ 259. 73 Steve AA4SH 😊
Thanks Steve, My first analyzer was a 259 and it was great for what it was. The modern analyzers blow it away for many reasons. I will look at doing a video for comparison.
Thanks for another great and instructive video The stick is also from the Ukraine, am sure they need income and support from around the world at the moment
@@houseofhamradio Also their pricing is too high for something not made in the USA. The materials and labor cost much less in UKR and yet their products are ridiculously expensive. I cannot justify the price to buy one since it has less features then the nanoVNA. If they priced them cheaper, more people will buy them.
Hey bro, I know nothing about Ham Radio, and I dont know why your video even popped up in my feed. It's interesting that's this is a new channel just starting out tho, and just wanted to let you know that you choose a good name to start your channel. I totally think you should run with it. Making things look pretty graphics and effects can be nice, but as long as you provide clear information to your audience, people will tune in. Great production value does count for something on RUclips tho, so upping your game in video production can definitely make you grow as well. Good luck and keep on keepin on.
I bought a Nano VNA a few months ago, tried it out several times, watched so many videos my head was spinning. End result? The VNA is in a dumpster, minus some adapters, and my Stick 230 is charging here at work.
VNAs are really engineering tools that can be used as antenna analyzers but as you stated, not the easiest things to use. Once you figure out the settings, they do an adequate job but for quick out in the field checks, the RigExpert analyzers are far and away better suited.
This is an easy decision. The NanoVNA is less expensive and much, much more capable. It takes some study to make full use of it but being able to calibrate for each band is a big plus. The RigExpert is no comparison to the NanoVNA.
If you are talking about working at home I tend to agree with you but out in the field setting up a portable antenna, I will have checked and tuned the antenna and be on the air before you will even have nanoVNA setup to test. The RigExpert is certainly more sturdy for throw in the bag ops and the e-ink display is better in direct sunlight. That being said, it is wonderful to have choices and you have made yours and are happy with it. That is a good thing.
For a new ham, it might be a good idea to start with one and work towards the Rig Expert as a ( let your family know you like tis but you just don't have the money) Birthdays, anniversary, Christmas, getting out of prison, and paying off the house may be good gift giving times.
Starting out, you should get what you can afford. Don't need to go jumping into the more expensive stuff. That being said, if you can afford the better stuff, buy once cry once.
I figure an antenna analyzer is for CBers. Hams need a NanoVNA. All CBers are allowed to do is tune their antennas and talk. Hams can do practically anything to do with RF. So the right tool for each hobby. And fortunately for hams, a much more capable tool for ham use is actually much cheaper.
Thanks for your comment and adding to the dialog. Interesting take. I don't necessarily agree though. Antenna analyzers absolutely have a place in the Ham Operators kit. For example, I take my RigExpert Stick in the field (POTA, SOTA, etc) to adjust my antenna/counterpoise for various locations. Antenna analyzers also have a valuable place in the shack as well for initially setting up and/or checking and adjusting a fixed antenna. A VNA, nano or otherwise is a valuable electronics test device that can also act as an antenna analyzer but that is not the intended purpose. Bottom line, using the right tool for the job is advised but it is ok to use what you got such as using a VNA if you don't have a dedicated antenna analyzer.
I have a few comments about the video: 1. Why is it necessary to point out that the Stick has a user-replaceable battery? Both devices have a user replaceable battery as far as I'm concerned. 2. I find it absurd to use the outdated and obsolete SO-239 connector on a measurement instruments. 3. I find the point about calibration questionable to say the least. The ability to calibrate the NanoVNA for different ranges according to my needs seems to me to be an advantage. 4. The small frequency range of the Stick is a deal breaker for me, after all it doesn't even support the 70cm band.
thanks for your comments. Sounds like you may be a more advanced user than many hams. The Stick is a portable field use device as where the NanoVNA is an inexpensive lab device IMHO.
Lmao. How much you get paid for endorcing the stick.? Very prejudiced opinion against the obviously better nanovna tool. Most hams are older gentlemen who watch their pennies so good luck selling something that is the price of a new radio. Especially here in Canada. Bonne chance ..
I am biased but not because I got paid but because I really believe in the product. I got exactly $0 for doing this comparison. In fact both of those devices I bought at full retail price. When you say "Obviously better nanovna" I assume you mean it does more and I cannot argue with that. If you are referring to quality of both components and calibration, I think you are way off. RigExpert makes a quality product. NanoVNA on the other hand truly depends on the source. Some are good and some aren't. I will say that both have their place. For adjusting antennas out in the field like POTA and SOTA, the stick beats the NanoVNA hands down. If you are doing workbench testing, the NanoVNA can do some things the stick cannot. If cost is your only consideration, go with a NanoVNA. If you are a field op like me, I will always take the stick over the NanoVNA.
@@houseofhamradio And that's the only advantage the stick has Sheer ruggedness . It is built tougher. BUT , get someone with a 3d printer to make a protective custom enclosure for the nano ,and your opinion doesn't really have a leg to stand on. This enclosure would only bring up the nano price a few dollars. Far from the 300-400-500-600-700$ they're asking for their products. I predict a huge price drop or a business going outta business. I knew from the beginning you were going to be biased towards the stick. I didn't even watch the full video once you leaned that way. Just the fact that they can offer 80$ off the price right away shows how overpriced it really is.
"Lmao. How much you get paid for endorcing the stick.?" No one is forced to watch the video. "Very prejudiced opinion against the obviously better nanovna tool" This is the perfect example of prejudiced viewpoint. "Most hams are older gentlemen who watch their pennies" Absolute tosh... Many hams have 5000$ + radios, and thousands more in accessories for just for fun. YT seems to provide a plethora of younger hams. I think it's unfortunate that someone spends their time complaining on YT comments rather taking the time to produce a video where they themselves explain in great detail why the NanoVNA is so much better the RigExpert. Sad Ham indeed. Personally I thought this video was very well balanced, giving the ups and downs of both solutions. It was clearly presented and was definitely not one of the usual shill videos that one has come to expect on YT. Kudos to HouseOfHamRadio.
Thanks for posting. IMHO, these are different electronic measurement instruments. One was designed for antenna tuning work in mind, possibly in the field, as in a radio tower. The other one is more suitable for lab use. It turns out the nanoVNA does so many things it can also be used as an antenna analyzer. It can be used to tune filters, measure gain or insertion loss, serves as a signal generator, can also measure cable length, in simpler words, it is a two port network analyzer, not a single port antenna analyzer. I also favor the nanoVNA because replacing it with another one is less painful. My two most important electronics and RF tools today are the DMM and the nanoVNA. If I did audio or low freq work, then also the oscilloscope. My 2 cents. 🙂
Thanks Jorge,
Outstanding insight and I wish I had thought to put it in the video. I appreciate you bringing it up so others can benefit from your knowledge.
Thanks for the shout out HoH 👍
You bet Ape. Figured I would point em to the right place to get NanoVNA answers.
I own both. I like my NanoVNA best because it lets me play more. There’s more “hands on” to make it work. It requires more thinking and understanding to work it properly.
I liken the RigExpert to a car with an auto trans, and the NanoVNA to a car with a manual trans.
Great analogy Steve. I also have both but my go-to is the RigExpert as one it is much more rugged for field use and I can get done quicker and get operating which is the goal doing POTA/SOTA
Hi,
I also like Rigexpert Stick for idea, simplicity and form-factor.
But there is version of basic nanoVNA with small screen which is smaller, lighter and outperform stick by available function (which perform for field use). Learning curve is also a good part of nanoVNA, user will learn something new instead of "stars" for good or bad SWR.
But most interesting part is price of small nanoVNA comparing with RigExpert.
Price 350$ showed on official site but usually price much bigger in Europe (around 500$) which would be deal breaker for me. Comparing with price 50$ for small nanoVNA - it is gift tool for this price.
The last thing, using nanoVNA you are able to more convenient way tune multi-band antennas like EFHW, OCF, etc as you are able to see SWR from 0 to 30MHz (full HF).
RigExperts are certainly costlier than the NanoVNAs are but I find them much more convenient for field work.
Bob years ago I purchased a MFJ259 I looked at you list of videos about analyzers. The newer models in your videos are above my current knowledge base. Thus I thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. You have made me realize the differences between models perhaps you might consider a video including the MFJ 259.
73 Steve AA4SH 😊
Thanks Steve,
My first analyzer was a 259 and it was great for what it was. The modern analyzers blow it away for many reasons. I will look at doing a video for comparison.
Excellent video on the benefits of each and differences.
Thanks Robert, I am glad you found it helpful. Let me know if there are other analyzer topics you would like to see in the future.
Thanks. I have the now discotinued Autek analyzer and am envious of the display these units have.
Things just keep getting better but if your current analyzer works for you, stick with it.
Thanks for another great and instructive video
The stick is also from the Ukraine, am sure they need income and support from around the world at the moment
Thanks, Yes, RigExpert is a Ukraine company. They do make good products and are worthy of our support.
@@houseofhamradio Also their pricing is too high for something not made in the USA. The materials and labor cost much less in UKR and yet their products are ridiculously expensive. I cannot justify the price to buy one since it has less features then the nanoVNA. If they priced them cheaper, more people will buy them.
@@jolebole-yt right on the nose jolebole. !! 👍👍. Rediculously, is the exact word.
Hey bro, I know nothing about Ham Radio, and I dont know why your video even popped up in my feed. It's interesting that's this is a new channel just starting out tho, and just wanted to let you know that you choose a good name to start your channel. I totally think you should run with it. Making things look pretty graphics and effects can be nice, but as long as you provide clear information to your audience, people will tune in. Great production value does count for something on RUclips tho, so upping your game in video production can definitely make you grow as well. Good luck and keep on keepin on.
Thanks for your kind words. Not sure why it showed up for you but maybe it's a sign that you should get into ham radio 😀
Nice overview. But I believe the regular RigExpert Stick 230 does not have Bluetooth, only the Stick Pro.
Yes the RigExpert Stick 230 does have BlueTooth as I have used it. Don't use it much but it does work.
@@houseofhamradio wow thanks- I didn’t realize that. very nice feature. I stand corrected!
I bought a Nano VNA a few months ago, tried it out several times, watched so many videos my head was spinning. End result? The VNA is in a dumpster, minus some adapters, and my Stick 230 is charging here at work.
VNAs are really engineering tools that can be used as antenna analyzers but as you stated, not the easiest things to use. Once you figure out the settings, they do an adequate job but for quick out in the field checks, the RigExpert analyzers are far and away better suited.
This is an easy decision. The NanoVNA is less expensive and much, much more capable.
It takes some study to make full use of it but being able to calibrate for each band is a big plus.
The RigExpert is no comparison to the NanoVNA.
If you are talking about working at home I tend to agree with you but out in the field setting up a portable antenna, I will have checked and tuned the antenna and be on the air before you will even have nanoVNA setup to test. The RigExpert is certainly more sturdy for throw in the bag ops and the e-ink display is better in direct sunlight. That being said, it is wonderful to have choices and you have made yours and are happy with it. That is a good thing.
For a new ham, it might be a good idea to start with one and work towards the Rig Expert as a ( let your family know you like tis but you just don't have the money) Birthdays, anniversary, Christmas, getting out of prison, and paying off the house may be good gift giving times.
Starting out, you should get what you can afford. Don't need to go jumping into the more expensive stuff. That being said, if you can afford the better stuff, buy once cry once.
@@houseofhamradio As you most likely, sublety is not my most valuable attribute, but humor and irony .... may be
I figure an antenna analyzer is for CBers. Hams need a NanoVNA. All CBers are allowed to do is tune their antennas and talk. Hams can do practically anything to do with RF. So the right tool for each hobby. And fortunately for hams, a much more capable tool for ham use is actually much cheaper.
Thanks for your comment and adding to the dialog.
Interesting take. I don't necessarily agree though. Antenna analyzers absolutely have a place in the Ham Operators kit. For example, I take my RigExpert Stick in the field (POTA, SOTA, etc) to adjust my antenna/counterpoise for various locations. Antenna analyzers also have a valuable place in the shack as well for initially setting up and/or checking and adjusting a fixed antenna. A VNA, nano or otherwise is a valuable electronics test device that can also act as an antenna analyzer but that is not the intended purpose.
Bottom line, using the right tool for the job is advised but it is ok to use what you got such as using a VNA if you don't have a dedicated antenna analyzer.
I have a few comments about the video:
1. Why is it necessary to point out that the Stick has a user-replaceable battery? Both devices have a user replaceable battery as far as I'm concerned.
2. I find it absurd to use the outdated and obsolete SO-239 connector on a measurement instruments.
3. I find the point about calibration questionable to say the least. The ability to calibrate the NanoVNA for different ranges according to my needs seems to me to be an advantage.
4. The small frequency range of the Stick is a deal breaker for me, after all it doesn't even support the 70cm band.
thanks for your comments. Sounds like you may be a more advanced user than many hams. The Stick is a portable field use device as where the NanoVNA is an inexpensive lab device IMHO.
Lmao. How much you get paid for endorcing the stick.? Very prejudiced opinion against the obviously better nanovna tool. Most hams are older gentlemen who watch their pennies so good luck selling something that is the price of a new radio. Especially here in Canada. Bonne chance ..
I am biased but not because I got paid but because I really believe in the product. I got exactly $0 for doing this comparison. In fact both of those devices I bought at full retail price. When you say "Obviously better nanovna" I assume you mean it does more and I cannot argue with that. If you are referring to quality of both components and calibration, I think you are way off. RigExpert makes a quality product. NanoVNA on the other hand truly depends on the source. Some are good and some aren't. I will say that both have their place. For adjusting antennas out in the field like POTA and SOTA, the stick beats the NanoVNA hands down. If you are doing workbench testing, the NanoVNA can do some things the stick cannot. If cost is your only consideration, go with a NanoVNA. If you are a field op like me, I will always take the stick over the NanoVNA.
@@houseofhamradio And that's the only advantage the stick has Sheer ruggedness . It is built tougher. BUT , get someone with a 3d printer to make a protective custom enclosure for the nano ,and your opinion doesn't really have a leg to stand on. This enclosure would only bring up the nano price a few dollars. Far from the 300-400-500-600-700$ they're asking for their products. I predict a huge price drop or a business going outta business. I knew from the beginning you were going to be biased towards the stick. I didn't even watch the full video once you leaned that way. Just the fact that they can offer 80$ off the price right away shows how overpriced it really is.
"Lmao. How much you get paid for endorcing the stick.?"
No one is forced to watch the video.
"Very prejudiced opinion against the obviously better nanovna tool"
This is the perfect example of prejudiced viewpoint.
"Most hams are older gentlemen who watch their pennies"
Absolute tosh... Many hams have 5000$ + radios, and thousands more in accessories for just for fun. YT seems to provide a plethora of younger hams.
I think it's unfortunate that someone spends their time complaining on YT comments rather taking the time to produce a video where they themselves explain in great detail why the NanoVNA is so much better the RigExpert.
Sad Ham indeed.
Personally I thought this video was very well balanced, giving the ups and downs of both solutions. It was clearly presented and was definitely not one of the usual shill videos that one has come to expect on YT.
Kudos to HouseOfHamRadio.