Xiegu X5105 Portable Ham Radio

Hello Operators.
Today we are taking a look at the Xiegu x5105 portable qrp ham radio station in a box. The Xiegu x5105 is a lightweight, HF/6M, portable QRP radio every serious field radio operator would enjoy as their primary or backup radio, for ham radio communications off grid.. Some portable HF operators say it is an interesting alternative to the Elecraft kx2, or Yaesu FT-818.
The Xiegu x5105 has built in charger, backlit keys, daylight readable display, internal antenna tuner, can decode several ham radio data modes, and has an internal 3800mah battery which can be charged in the field, without removing the battery from the enclosure.
This portable HF radio might be the best qrp option for the off grid ham radio operator looking for a self contained, easy to deploy option for extended field communications.
This video stays true to the OH8STN Ham radio viewer, by focusing on the design and features valuable to the off grid and utilitarian ham radio operator, operating far off the beaten path. Battery power. antenna tuner, off grid charging, internal battery. digital modes, versus elecraft kx2, versus elecraft kx3, versus ft-818, ...
73
Julian oh8stn
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[@rodneywhitfield5754]

Julian the work you do for amateur radio is awesomeness! Thank you my friend. KC5DZH

[@OH8STN]

Thanks for the kindness Rodney.👍 73 Julian oh8stn

[@VR2UNA]

I bought some years ago. But no sooner than I bought it the Pandemic started. I left my gig in Hong Kong my base city and moved to Guangzhou and could not get back to Hong Kong for 2.5 years. I asked a ham nearby to help me charge the battery in order to keep it alive.

[@bradfrancis9473]

Thanks Julian. Was a ham years ago. Working to get re-licensed. Data and portable are what’s getting me back in. You are great. Hitting the issues I am interested in such a comprehensive way. Thank you.

[@andrewhamop6665]

The X5105 will probably be my first QRP rig. The KX2 very nice, and the 705 looks awesome, but for that price I would just buy an IC-7300 and a pelican case lol. I went with my Elmer's suggestion and decided to get a 100w rig to start off with. If anyone is wondering, it's a Yaesu FT-891. I definitely want to try QRP, the thought of being able to set up in 15 minutes with a roll or fold up solar panel, an antenna like the Chameleon MPAS 2.0, a charged internal battery, and being able to operate pretty much indefinitely is mind blowing. Love the videos and keep up the great work, 73 de W8IJC!

[@OH8STN]

Best comment of the day 👍👍👍🙏

[@andrewhamop6665]

@@OH8STN haha thanks! Hope to maybe make a contact with ya someday. Sadly the 891 is on backorder so it might be a few weeks before I get it. I am planning on running digital, JS8 or FT8 would most likely be the only way to do it.

[@OH8STN]

Check the post I just put up on Instagram (@oh8stn). Rx messages from North America regularly on 40m with JS8Call.

[@andrewhamop6665]

@@OH8STN oh wow! When do you usually get on JS8, UTC? Like I said it will be a few weeks but I will get on the air eventually. I've got a G5RV about 30ft (9m) up in a tree, in an inverted V. I also regularly see plenty of FT8 and JS8 from across the ocean. Should be possible with a decent band opening.

[@gac5329]

I value your opinion for QRP over all others. Can't wait for your IC-705 review.

[@Robert-jt6eo]

I agree 100% with what others have said, Julian, your analisis on these radios is truly appreciated. At least with your input we have a source for the TRUTH. The great work you do on all the rigs is priceless and Thank You.

[@OH8STN]

🙏

[@PrecisionGroupYT]

Thank you for this video! I almost purchased a new Yaesu FT-818nd as I had previously checked MFJ’s website and it showed that the X5105 was discontinued (when I looked) but after watching this video I cancelled my FT-818 order and ordered the Xiegu X5105 (Outdoor model) from another sight!! Also it will be neat to see the GSOC pan adaptor that is supposed to come out later this year!! 73

[@OH8STN]

You absolutely won't be disappointed

[@4X4-RADIO]

It's an excellent, and under rated Radio... One feature often over looked... SWR Scan... perfect for tuning antennas in the field, especially small mag loops

[@hamradiotube]

Great video as always Julian. I think they really hit it out of the park with the design of this radio. I absolutely love my X5105. The only thing I wish they would have done is put a gasket under the plastic cover for the screen so dust doesn't get under it. That's just my OCD though. 73

[@submarineradioman5535]

Xiegu totally screwed up AM on this radio… if it’s advertised to work on AM - it should work on AM! AM transmission is horribly distorted and is unintelligible… XIEGU - fix it !!!

[@frankkrozel7624]

Excellent review Julian, thanks for doing this. The flexibility of the 5105 allows many additional features to be enabled. The internal mic is a sleeper feature. Never tried that until a few weeks ago. Having the ability to set the internal mic gain was a well needed adjustment. Amazed how well that works. Thanks again for your efforts. De Frank KG9H

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome Frank, thanks for watching.

[@2heavyb517]

thank you for taking the time to share your expertise once again. I am getting ready for my general exam so I have been looking at HF rigs. I think a portable radio will be just the ticket. Your video on the 817/818 radio gave me pause. Thanks to you I have a better option here.

[@OH8STN]

I've got a new video incoming about the 818. We've made some modifications to it :-) ;-)

[@dab30770]

@@OH8STN thanks julian for the video, I have a 818 and am looking forward to the 818 mod video.

[@mikemiles3068]

Great video❗️ I pick up a X5105 last Saturday at The Baytown Texas Ham Fest for less than $400 and have been checking out videos on it for the past 3 days and I am quite impressed with this little Jewel. Thank for this extremely informative video, I have viewed it several times. 73. KV5P

[@OH8STN]

You might want to check out the digirig interface. It'll make interfacing for audio and Cat control much easier. Glad you like the radio👍 73 Julian oh8stn

[@alanb76]

Nice review of this radio. Depending where in the bandpass you set your transmitting frequency it is best to operate split with WSJT-X so that it can optimize the filtering by adjusting the carrier frequency and offsetting the audio frequency to compensate and placing the tone in the best part of the USB filtering for the transmitter. This produces the cleanest digital signal and the best power. If not using split then you can just keep the transmitting tone in the 1500-2000 range but this reduces the chance of finding a clear frequency to transmit on. Operating split (real or fake) requires CAT control.

[@OH8STN]

This radio has cat control. I just choose not to use it, keeping cables minimal. You make a good point though 👍👍👍

[@ornotermes]

With the locations of the antenna connector, speaker, mic and PTT you can actually use X5105 as a HT, preferably in the right hand with the thumb on PTT.

[@stridermt2k]

I enjoy your videos very much, and I thank you for this one! You were an influence in my purchasing a G90, which I have grown to like very much after a couple of modifications. I built a "luggable" system with my G90 that I absolutely love using, but the whole thing together is 20 pounds. This radio is really very nice, and being able to use it with such a minimal load-out is eye opening to say the least. Heck, slap a standard telescoping whip to the thing and it's like the best portable SWL radio ever. LOL Thanks again de N2NLQ

[@survivalcomms]

Looks like a cool little radio. I do like the large display. Thanks for sharing !

[@paoemantega8793]

An excellent presentation, great info, useful tips and tricks, great delivery, talkover is a great method - keep up the good work sir

[@maxs489]

Awesome rundown of this radio. Thanks so much for the time you put into putting this together for us! Great content, always. You rock.

[@OH8STN]

Thank you Max👍

[@mikezagorsky]

Two of my observations: I found i needed to supply 13.8 volts to fully charge the battery. Also, I found using the battery voltage was more accurate then the precentage remaining.

[@OH8STN]

This might be true. For a full charge of the internal battery the user manual says 13.8 volts. But the power the radio external in the field I'm using the powerfilm lightsaver Max. It supplies 12.3 volts, and gets the internal battery to about 90% full capacity. The user manual says 9 to 15 volts for external power and I would agree that this voltage range works perfectly. Thanks for the feedback and sharing your observations.

[@guyhornbeck8940]

Hi Julian: Thank you for the time and effort in producing this video. You consistently provide high-quality content that is directly applicable to off-the-grid/field use. This video motivated me to buy a X-5105 and I'm not at all disappointed. I also acquired a used Microsoft Surface 2 to compliment the X-5105 - again, one of your suggestions from another video. Much appreciated. 73 de AE6FE

[@OH8STN]

Glad it worked out. You may want to take a look at the Digirig interface for the x5105. Both audio and CAT control on a single small board. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@kenharris7120]

Was very helpful thanks getting mine tomorrow first radio

[@Devin82m]

Thanks Julian, great overview. I may end up purchasing one after I save up and buy the Icom 705, it sounds like a great backup or a "I don't want to risk my Icom" type radio, not to mention a great primary.

[@1polonium210]

Julian, this is the best video I have seen on the X5105. I have had one for about two months, and I am still figuring out all of the details of this little QRP rig. The X5105 is an outstanding product for the price, and I am very pleased with mine (as well as my G90). I enjoy working from a park not far from my house where I am away from a lot of the RFI in my house and neighborhood. There, I can experiment with different antennas, and I have found that the the X5105 is an outstanding receiver. TX is a little difficult at times, but I chalk that up to current band conditions etc. Another outstanding video, as usual!

[@Andrew-dg7qm]

I’ve been considering both radios but am drawn to the portability and built in battery. Would you recommend either (I have a lithium battery) for a first HF radio? Thanks!

[@ronaldburks504]

I am very glad I found this channel, l am new to ham radio and learning more and more everyday. Thanks to you and many others. I will be watching, thanks again.

[@HamRadio2]

Great video, Julian. I have one of these radios and I hesitated to do a video on it since so many are already out there, but I think you have inspired me to do one anyway. 73

[@guitardzan5641]

COOL! Maybe you can do a video on how to get the X 5105 to decode CW? I paid for this functionality but no one seems to have any idea of how to get this to work....My particular interest is using the decode feature as a training aid in my key sending practice. There seems to be no such critter....I find it odd that there are any number of apps to practice receiving but nothing to compare my transmissions to a standard of accuracy.

[@OH8STN]

I'm seriously waiting for the x6100. Will be an interesting update for sure.

[@pmate95]

I bought one because it's a really impressive all-in-one radio. I miss the Airband a bit, but on the other hand, it's a small, but yet quite rugged radio. There is one thing I don't like: the rotary encoder. The stepping is not so accurate, sometimes it misses the click, and the band sweeping is not so comfortable as with an FT-817.

[@tom_olofsson]

Once again you have rung every bit of information out of this rig. Thank you.

[@Jeff-jg8kj]

Thanks for another great video, Julian! I love my X5105. Bought my first through MFJ-they were kind of a disappointment to work with. Recently bought my second one (as a backup) last month through Radioddity (2 is 1, 1 is none...)-much more responsive than MFJ. Highly recommend it for anyone looking for a relatively affordable QRP rig.

[@pgrundle]

Awesome video and very helpful as I am seriously considering this radio. Cheers from Western Canada!

[@OH8STN]

You are very welcome 👍

[@guitardzan5641]

Hey Julian, You are obviously correct in noting the abundance of videos offered regarding this amazing little radio. The difference is that your observations are based on a lot more than mere opinion. You focus the pragmatic engineers insights on the specifics....And that's much appreciated! There are people all over the world scratching bald spots on their heads trying to figure out how to make the CW Decoding function on this radio actually work... Have you taken a look at this? Keep on keeping on with the outstanding channel content!

[@OH8STN]

Thanks for the comment and kindness. I have got the CW decoder to work at times, but that's not really good news. The failure or success rate was very dependent on the quality of the CW sent from the transmitting station. Variations in length or speed changes, seemed to confuse the decoder. I'll try to record some decoding, and post on the community tab and blog, time permitting. Maybe we can make a tutorial from it then. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@guitardzan5641]

@@OH8STN Thanks for the reply and I'm looking forward to seeing what you come up with. I have tested the CW decode function of my X5105 with machine generated code from several sources. The inconsistent results have lead me to believe that the fault is in the software of the radio and therefore fixable with a factory upgrade. If Xiegu would open source their software, someone on the consumer end could rewrite some of the lines of code to better describe the characteristics of the individual dits, dahs, and spaces at different speeds. No, I don't see this happening any time soon. On the other hand, I'm probably wrong about the radio's primary fault and you might well see a workaround.

[@MyTube4Utoo]

I feel like I got a bargain on my X5105. Great video, as usual. Thanks, Julian. :-)

[@OH8STN]

Ur welcome. It's a great little rig 💪👍

[@WJ6FRadio]

Outstanding video as usual! I have the G90, but have though this would be a great addition for those days you just want to go extremely light! Also been debating on a KX2, but the cost of the X5105 is very appealing. Also like that you don't need to remove the battery for charging!

[@radioactive8772]

The X5105 is a great radio. MFJ said the X5105 is discontinued in the USA, but XIEGU is going to produce a X5105 PRO model. KG7CQG

[@OH8STN]

we still have them in EU. Will be interesting to see an update. I def have some input for them. thanks for the comment

[@radioactive8772]

@@OH8STN Thanks for all your videos. Hope to work you some day soon. KG7CQG

[@alvinnorris6523]

I e had my g90 since it first came out with no problems

[@rachmielbenberel]

I definitely would choose the Xiegu over the Yaesu 817/818--it has more features; and from what I have read, much better battery life. A number of years ago, I picked up an 817 with LDG Z-817 autotuner on eBay for a very reasonable price. I replaced the battery in the 817 with a Yaesu replacemen

[@OH8STN]

I still use the 817nd, but honestly if I had the 818 and X5105 side by side with what I know now, I would choose the Xiegu, unless 2m/70cm were critical bands.

[@destinogaia7168]

Great videos. I´m plannig trip in a motorcycle across my country, Colombia, and later Sud America and all these reviews give me more motivation.. Thanks a lot, Julian. Please, keep that wondeful work. Greetings from Colombia.

[@phildurall7466]

Julian ... as always I enjoy your contend and delivery of the material. I have been impressed with my Xiegu G90 and have looked at the 5105 with interest. Keep up the great work Sir! 73, KF6IF

[@OH8STN]

Thank you Phil. It's nice to get that delivery right when you love what you do :-) Thanks for the kindness and feedback, it's very much appreciated. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@1961markc]

Your video is the reason I got this radio. Thanks KE8PHJ 73’s

[@justabob22]

nice work young man I've been doing this for 50 years but never got into qrp

[@huffman425]

THANKS FOR A GREAT VIDEO. I WAS WONDERING ABOUT THE SIZE OF THE DIGITAL DISPLAY. I AM VISUALLY IMPAIRED AND LIVE IN A CONDO AND WAS LOOKING AT THE KX2 AND THIS RADIO.. LOOKS LIKE THE DID[LAY IS BIGGER ON THIS ONE.

[@OH8STN]

I am too having problem with my fish I am too having problem with my Eyes and vision.. One of the reasons I love this radio over the 818 For example is the large, easy to read display.

[@BadHorsie2]

Awesome video. I took some notes on the digital mode setup. 73 de KG5CFR

[@OH8STN]

Wondering if

[@ccrraaiigg007]

@@OH8STN I would be interested for sure.

[@4X4-RADIO]

@@OH8STN Yes... Yes... Yes... Please :)

[@Subgunman]

Nice setup and great info! 73 from SV9 land!

[@OH8STN]

thanks. atm this is my favorite qrp setup. its an amazing little radio for the price.

[@davidsradioroom9678]

An excellent review. Thanks.

[@rachmielbenberel]

After finally deciding to purchase a 5105, I noticed the latest MFJ ad in QST for $50 off on it. Thinking that it's a good time to buy, I telephone MFJ and am told that they no longer have 5105s in stock--additionally, they tell me that Xiegu has completely pulled back all of the 5105s and is reengineering the radio. The new 5105 will be called the 5105 PRO. Check back in November or December (though there is no way of knowing if it will be out by then). And that's the way it is.

[@paulhelinski9890]

Great review thanks. I'm getting one.

[@markg6jvy135]

Really good review of the rig from the perspective of off grid. Lots to like about it, great work Julian. 👍

[@aaronakiyama]

Seriously considering one of these as lugging my FT-991 into the field isn't particularly convenient.

[@dwatson4]

Aaron Kravik, I have the x5105 and the 100w amp to go with it. I uses a wolf river 80-10 coil and 20ft of LMR240 with it. 1st contact at 5w was SC to OH at 5/9. Wonderful radio.

[@grandpaandlucas7054]

many thx for your time and effort making these clips, i really find them help full, best 73 2e0fsd

[@OH8STN]

Thank you for the comment and kindness. Much appreciated. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@StephenKangas]

Hi Julian: I agree with others that this is the best video so far on this radio. One feature that you did not cover that is important to a lot of portable operators doing POTA/SOTA or just out camping while participating in a contest is Voice/CW Message memory...does this radio have that, and if yes how convenient is it to access during radio operation (eg, assignable to a button?)??

[@OH8STN]

Thanks and actually that's a great question. I haven't tested it simply because I'm primarily a data modes operator. This is something I should cover again since I've recently started using this feature on the 705. I'll come back to this topic time permitting. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@prestonshute7243]

I’ve had mine for almost 2 years and still love it. Wish you had also covered the IF output port on the left side of the radio for those SWL folks with SDR radios. But as usual, loads of great information is to be found on your channel. 73 wd4dda

[@user-sq8yl3ml9l]

Robust little radio and I don't regret the purchase - a wake up call for Yaesu. You have clearly described its many plus points. The V3.0 build 8.0 firmware - now nearly ten months old - isn't up to the expected grade though. When compared to functionality in earlier firmware versions CTCSS was omitted locking you out of 6m repeaters, filters L-CUT & H-CUT can't be narrowed down as much as they used to be for digital work, AGC seems to have a mind of its own, and you have to be vary careful in setting up RF gain which seemingly needs to be varied between 6m and HF bands. Nobody seems to have much success with the CW decode which is a real shame as I understand they have cracked it for the G90. The various spectrum graph displays raise more questions than answers. When you look hard at the DIGI graph it is a bit of a mystery what it actually represents and how it works cf dial frequency, similarly the SRM graph (always shows CW mode ??) AUX port has an under size orifice in the casing that needs to be bored out for connecting to Wolphilink plug. Manual is a weak, I was under the impression the EQ function you described worked on the RX audio not TX and re-reading the manual doesn't clarify. My concern is that, despite this being their most expensive radio, interest from the manufacturer is waning and inadequate resource is focussed on getting the firmware right as new hardware comes down the production line. I fear I could be left slightly disappointed with a radio which, for only a "ha'peth more of [firmware] tar" , could be absolutely brilliant. I think that distributors need to work more closely with Xiegu get to grips with these support issues - and soon.

[@GaryUtz]

Hey Julian, Long time subscriber here. Thanks for another top shelf video! I had an X5015 at one time and sold it because of the issues with the internal keyer. No matter how I adjusted the settings, the keyer would not behave. However, since I already own a KX3, I was thinking of grabbing another X5105 to do SSB pedestrian mobile. With the internal battery, mic and PTT it might fun to try out. Do you see any ground connection for a counterpoise? My plan is to use the X5015 as a handheld and drag the counterpoise near the surf. Please throw in any positive or negative comments you might share. Again, thanks for your descriptive and comparative style vlogs.

[@TheTreegodfather]

That's a neat little rig!

[@polymath5119]

Others have noted the relatively high noise floor in this radio. Do you also find it high, and bothersome?

[@OH8STN]

Great question. I turn off the preamp and reduce the RF gain. I think the levels are too high in the firmware. So I turned them down or off from the user interface. I can still hear everything with this radio that I can hear with my ft-891.

[@polymath5119]

Thanks, and also for sharing your technique for working around the issue.

[@robliguori]

@@OH8STN Hi, what do you mean when you say, "So I turned them down or off from the user interface."? I find the noise floor irritating. I have tweaked the controls to lower it as much as I can. But how can I adjust it in the firmware? Thanks in advance, Rob

[@philipwells2793]

I am about to launch myself into amateur radio although familiar with HF from a former life. I look at this transceiver compare it to cheaper and more expensive and given my only interest being QRP, and mobile it really seems you get a shack in a box that represents excellent value for money that really can't be beaten. Yes the Lab599 ticks a lot of boxes, but then you need a battery pack, tuner (and I will need that) and Lab599 starts to look very expensive, yes some of the cheaper options tick some boxes but once you have made up for what they don't have cost pretty much the same but its not in one package. Tell me I am wrong if you think I shouldn't buy this as my first QRP radio.

[@OH8STN]

I have absolutely no problem with this radio. I still have it here on the desk, And will invest more time into videos with this radio. At the end of the day the requirements are yours. I am not going to try to convince you one way or the other. I can tell you this. You would not see this radio channel, if it didn't offer some value or tick some boxes. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@Surge1045]

Outstanding video. Love your channel.

[@oldgiapetto]

I have a new X5105 in transit to my home now, based partly on your fine KZbin review. Hope to meet you down the log some day! AG5GW

[@OH8STN]

had to switch to my laptop. sorry if I missed your comments

[@barrykery1175]

Very well done informative video. I really learned and enjoyed it. Other than the fact that it does not have VHF and UHF, I think, hands down, the X5105 offers so much more than the FT 817/818. The internal ATU by itself is a great feature. I actually liked the low profile VFO knob. I like the size of the internal battery. I also like the idea you can connect the radio to a solar panel, charge the battery and operate at the same time. Very well though out. I just have one question: In the review done by QST, they showed where the first CW character was truncated. So if I sent my call sign one time, the first character of my call sign is a K. Since the first character was, or still is (?) truncated, my call sign would come out as an "A". So my question is, " did they correct this problem?" Barry, KU3X

[@bigfootlives3245]

Have you done any propagation testing with this unit and various antennas? I am new to this hobby and do have the x5105 with a ML antenna but curious what type of antenna would match well for doing POTA or SOTA. Appreciate your thorough videos, very informative, you really know your radios. What was that software near the end?

[@OH8STN]

Hey thanks for the question. Unfortunately the question is too abstract, but let's see if I can help. The best is to choose an antenna for the bands you plan to operate on. There are lots of different types of antennas, half wave end fed, short vertical whips, random wire end fed, magnetic loop, dipole, ... because your radio has a tuner you can use a Broadband antenna unlike a short vertical whip ( military style) or even a random wire which will get you on every HF band. Next you'll need to think about how far the stations are from you you're trying to transmit. The further they are, and remembering you have low power, the larger the antenna you want to deploy. I would say the two best performing antennas or either a dipole, or an end fed half wave. You can also have very good results with a random wire in fed which is at least 70 ft long. The larger the antenna you can deploy, the better you will be heard, and the better people will hear you. If you're thinking about Regional Communications, a shorter antenna which has some loading or a Transformer at the base, and also do very well. I hope this helps.

[@w4mkh]

Great detailed review. How is the selectivity on the 5105? Does it filter out adjacent signals? Any frontend overloading issues?

[@OH8STN]

Definitely not on a KX2 level, but the filtering is excellent considering the price. Sensitivity is almost too good sometimes, so using the gain and filters is critical to a good experience. It's better suited to Backcountry operations than a crowded Field Day environment.

[@johnk8091]

I can't wait to see your review of the IC-705, and see how you use it off the beaten track in the great outdoors

[@OH8STN]

That will be epic. It's definitely going to be an Autumn or winter Expedition but I think it can handle it. Thanks for the comment and kindness. It's very much appreciated

[@MrMesospheric]

Great video again, Julian. Have you any comment on crystal oscillator stability for modes like WSPR, etc? If it's very stable, this will be the 2021 purchase for me.

[@OH8STN]

Thanks Freddy. I have a video incoming on data modes with this radio. I've been running ft8, js8, and winlink with this radio already. Having no issues at all. I suppose it's because the crystal oscillator is already built into this radio. Thanks for the comment question and kindness. It's very much appreciated.

[@joe10is]

Another awesome video! Thanks!! And, is it possible to input frequencies directly from the numeric keys on the hand mic? Thanks!

[@bernarrcoletta7419]

I’d like to hear your thoughts about the X5105 vs the IC-705 when you get one. Like which one results in a smaller, lighter station.

[@morganlindstrom9860]

What’s your thoughts on this vs the G90? For survival coms including data mode of WinLink or any other email platform. I’m new to ham radio and love your blog and channel. Your videos are the best! Your niche is exactly where I want to be.

[@Andrew-dg7qm]

Nice vid. I don’t have my general and I’m considering this for a first radio. Is this a bad idea? I’ve made a VHF/UHF go box and I’m interested in QRP. I’m also not interested in a desk station shack if I can. But I don’t want to make learning HF more of a hassle. Thanks & ciao!

[@OH8STN]

I'm about to release a video on the X6100 which is the update. If you're really considering this radio I would go with the update. The update includes audio interface and Cat control over a single USB cable. It's got HF and 6 m plus a full 10 W when powered externally. It's not a perfect radio, but it is less expensive than some of the alternatives. Here's the alternatives kzbin.info/aero/PLKMrdrsNkFA7zs23f9CPyZyK12jfEEzAe

[@Andrew-dg7qm]

@@OH8STN thank you

[@usernamemykel]

Great vid. I understand that this radio has a great antenna tuner, so I'm wondering if I could get decent RX/TX by hooking it up to my home's rain leaders/gutters, without the need for additional hardware. What is your advice, please?

[@OH8STN]

Definitely. Just keep in mind the antenna needs a hot and cold side (like a dipole). Longer getters are better for lower bands. You might also add a current balance at the "feed". Would enjoy hearing how it works out.

[@OH8STN]

As I mentioned in the video if you leave your questions in the comments, I'll answer them either in the comments or in a blog. I put together a Blog about the x5105. You can find it here. oh8stn.org/blog/2020/08/02/xiegu-x5105/ If you're interested in the Yaesu ft-818, but are not particularly interested in 2 meters or 70cm, take a look at this playlist. kzbin.info/aero/PLKMrdrsNkFA5EhKvHqcm9HBzYcXuVxefu 73 Julian oh8stn

[@sashajaparidze2611]

Hi Julian, thank you for great vidios you make! I've got a question on X5105, with the Xiegu breakout box, can you have only one mini din cable connecting them together and use the data port on expansion board? When I connect mine to the ratio it works for a CAT control, but not when I connect to the expansion board. Thanks! ZL1JX

[@craigpalmer9196]

got mine :) a slig would be very nice, puts on thinking cap

[@OH8STN]

I would love to see that in real life :D 73 Julian oh8stn

[@craigpalmer9196]

@@OH8STN www.varusteleka.com/en maybe just maybe these guys might help, stap or maybe mollie/pals pouch

[@craigpalmer9196]

@@OH8STN flash update an ex British waater bottle pals pouch is larger than the radio but it'll work for me #8415-99-461-4942 dc1a/1024 < part number

[@sweasler]

Ugh now you post this, I ordered an FT-818 this morning!!!

[@PrecisionGroupYT]

I feel your pain....after watching this video I was able to cancel my FT-818 order with HRO just in the nick of time and ordered the Xiegu X5105!! I am also very much interested in the GSOC pan adaptor for the Xiegu G90 & X5105 that is supposed to come out later this year from Xiegu!! Also you can sell your new Ft-818 on EBay or another sight (or possibly return it to where you purchased it for a small restocking fee). When I see all the wonderful built in features of the X5105 as compared to the FT-818 it’s a no brainer as with the FT-818 you have to spend allot more $$$ For upgrades! 73

[@sweasler]

@@PrecisionGroupYT Yeah but the thing about the 818 is it gives me redundancy on VHF/UHF and after thinking it through part of getting into Ham radio for me is preparedness and having back up comms so I'll stick with the 818, although I'm sure down the road I'll get another HF rig! The X5105 is a sweet little radio though

[@CWB-RF]

I don't think you'll be disappointed. I use the FT-818 as my base station as well as portable and I've never regretted it. It won't be my only QRP rig as I'm intrigued by what's available these days for portable operations. Nothing wrong with having a backup or in my case a backup for a backup....

[@submarineradioman5535]

Many hams are not aware that the x5105 has a horrible AM DISTORTION problem. When is Xiegu going to fix this ???

[@michaellablanc6886]

Thank you for another great video! Would recommend this radio for a new HF operator exclusively interested in digital modes? Some say QRP is a frustrating way for a new HF operator to go, but for digital modes does it matter as much?

[@OH8STN]

Honestly qrp can be frustrating but only when you expect instant results. Quite often I sit someplace portable, using 10 watts and this radio and a digital mode like ft8 or js8, making contacts on different continents. There is definitely a learning curve, but understanding the recipe to making it all work, is a part of the process. I would say go for it! This is an excellent radio for data modes and my primary radio as well. You can always add an amplifier later, for those days when 10 watts isn't enough.

[@anywhereroam9698]

Great review. I’m looking into Ham, don’t know much yet. Can you just plug into the headphone jack on a laptop? Why do you need a USB sound card?

[@OH8STN]

You could definitely use the sound card from the laptop. I use a separate sound card so that I don't get notifications transmitting out into the radio.

[@CarlosFelipeRequiao]

Nice Review!! At 5:11 you say that the EQ works on TX, are you sure? I also have one and it seems only to adjust the receiving audio. 73 de PY5CL

[@timk7749]

I've done some tests and didn't notice any difference on TX but definitely works well on RX. 73 de KF7VUT

[@jasonbrambach6957]

Which tablet do you use in the field for doing digital modes? What affects your choice to go with laptop vs tablet? Thanks in advance for your reply, Julian. De KY9I

[@OH8STN]

Excellent question Jason. With the x5105 I'm using a Lenovo c940 15in Yoga tablet laptop combination. I do this because the Raspberry Pi I normally is, is almost the same size as the x5105. So I just use a laptop to simplify the setup. If I'm doing navtex, psk, rtty, sstv, will using any of the other daytime mode application supported on Android, I'm using my Samsung Galaxy Tab S5e, and wolphilink. When I'm using my ft-891 or g90, the Raspberry Pi are integrated with those radios. So then choosing which one to use, is just a matter of convenience.

[@conradpelt8866]

Great video! What was the antenna you used? I know you mentioned it in another video, but...

[@OH8STN]

Thanks it is the @chameleonantenna mpas 2.0

[@burtonjohnson2037]

Great info

[@ptadv2000]

Thank you for this video. What was your farthest contact using this rig?

[@OH8STN]

Thanks for the comment question and your kindness. If I remember correctly, it was Sardinia from northern Finland. The five watts is enough for FT8 or JS8. You just have to make sure you're using a good antenna configuration.

[@guitardzan5641]

Hello Julian! Have you looked more closely at the decoding issues of the x-5105?

[@vironpayne3405]

Great videos. Do know of any reason why rig control function and data shouldn't be done via Bluetooth? None of the radio manufactures have exploited Bluetooth for those purposes, but I believe Pignology has something.

[@submarineradioman5535]

Julian - exactly where is the internal microphone located? Tnx de Howie WA3MCK - how cool is that!?!?!?

[@MoTown44240]

Good presentation Julian. I wonder why Xeigu ceased sale of the X5105. Best 72 de KB8AMZ

[@techguy9023]

It looks like a new one is coming

[@todop]

thanks

[@understandthetimes5721]

Did you get a chance to test it on 6 meters? Thanks for reviewing this rig, I think they might still be available from Radioddity. I'm seriously considering it. 73

[@OH8STN]

I did a lot of work with ft8 on 6 meters with this radio and it was Rock Solid. Check the links in the description. They are still in stock.

[@ok4rm]

Hello Julian. I own a KX-3 and am quite disappointed about its drift on bands 20 meters and above, where it is quite difficult to make a FT-8 QSO and PSK can sometimes be challenge as well. On 50 MHz the drift is audible. How stable is X5105, especially on higher frequencies, when transmitting?

[@OH8STN]

I've never heard about an elecraft drifting. That seems odd. Anyway, I haven't experienced any noticeable drift with the X5105, on any band. It has a built-in tcxo which seems to be pretty stable. Let's see when I get it out in the winter if that remains true. The spec for frequency stability is listed right in the user manual and can also be adjusted by the end user, in the firmware. I'm sorry to hear about the kx3. It is one of my favorite radios overall, and definitely my favorite radio from elecraft.

[@CWB-RF]

Interesting, I had planned on adding this neat little rig to my collection but noticed many U.S. dealers showing it discontinued. Any reputable dealers carrying this in the U.S.? I just want to be sure I can get support for it if needed. I'd be interested in what you think of the X5105 receiver for SSB compared to other rigs you've owned or used. There's something about an HF transceiver that can basically be used as an HT that speaks to me.

[@kb1qzh]

So are we looking at X5105 vs IC705 vs Lab 599 TX-500? The idea of bike mobile is attractive to me so these rig are the right size. Getting 6m would be idea but I know it's hard to come by.

[@OH8STN]

I think definitely. I'm also bike mobile with my fat bike touring. I would often like a small enough radio to use with JS8 & WinLink when bike camping. I think the x5105 will be the budget alternative to the IC 705. The tx500 will be the Doomsday alternative to them both. It's very likely I'll have the tx500 and 705 here in the coming months. We can do this.

[@neilwilson984]

Looks like a great portable option to replace my 817 although I suspect it would have a lot more traction against the 705 if they'd included a USB plug instead of the CIV headphone jack for single cable digital operation and went to 10W

[@VR2UNA]

I wonder if anyone can tell me we can control this gig from a computer in order to minimize the wear of the buttons on the machine.

[@OH8STN]

Rig control with Omnirig is possible. Also through FLRig.

[@VR2UNA]

@@OH8STN thank you very much

[@LouiseBrooksBob]

Once the internal battery has failed, is it possible to remove it and operate just on external power?

[@kenharris7120]

Also buy a MFJ 1979 Telescopic a Antenna

[@DanielSoundMan]

I remember you had a 10 watt amp with one of your Yaesu radios. Do you feel limited by the 5 watt output on this one?

[@OH8STN]

Not really, since I'm primarily running narrow bandwidth data modes. I can also run a full 5 watts with this radio, without it overheating. 10w would be nice put on SSB I can use that speech compressor built into this radio to make up for the loss.

[@CJburk]

Julian, Great video! I just finished up building a pi4 and having trouble with the settings to get the X5105 connected to js8call. I know the G90 uses ic7100, does the 5105 use the same? Thanks in advance! KJ7LLS

[@mikemiles3068]

Julian great video, I picked up this little radio at a swap meet last year for around $300.00 US. I have used it a couple of times out on the deck and really do like it but the owners manual is absolutely terrible, I have asked around and it seems as their is no updates to the original manual, do you have any suggestions? Love your videos 73 KV5P

[@OH8STN]

Describe the problem you're having Mike

[@Fynbosphil01]

Saying "Excellent video" at this point is just redundant ;-) - Question, though: Are you still in love with this radio? I had my finger on the button to order one, but a very experienced (outdoor QRP) local ham told me it's the worst radio he's ever owned....now I'm flat-out confused. Often initial reviews can be a bit rosy while everything is still fresh and new....so how are you enjoying (or not) this radio after some more use/abuse? 73 de ZS1WW

[@OH8STN]

Well don't worry I'm not Rosy 👍 Xiegu firmware is pretty awful compared to Icom, Yaesu, Kenwood, ... They do iron out all of the weird workflows over time. So yeah the workflows with the radio are strange if you're used to something else. If you're more flexible and able to adapt to different ways of working, this radio is pretty nice. With that said I'm testing the new version x6100 at the moment. This newer version is the one you should really be looking at. I have a video coming out on it in a week or so. I would still take this radio over the Yaesu ft-818.

[@Fynbosphil01]

@@OH8STN Awesome! Thanks. I'll wait for your video, in that case. Seeing as how any option I pick will have to ship to the southern end of the African continent....sending things back for a "quick" service just isn't an option for us here...

[@duanehendrickson4023]

What firmware version are you using? 73s KD9EGI

[@OH8STN]

its from 2019. Im not at home now but will try to remember to reply when the rigs in my hands again. 73 Julian oh8stn

[@sudberceni257]

In the 11m lane, someone managed to open the station. and how did you do it. Thanks 73!

[@submarineradioman5535]

Hello again Julian. Have you operated the X5105 on AM? I have attempted AM and have found the audio signal quite distorted. All other modes work well. Do you have any suggestions on how I might eliminate the distortion? Thank you de Howie WA3MCK.

[@OH8STN]

Unfortunately there isn't any AM activity in Scandinavia to even test. Do you have that same Distortion with shortwave radios? Those I can test with.

[@submarineradioman5535]

@@OH8STN - the distortion is only in transmit. The 5105 receives AM well. Thank you!

[@travislytle2211]

How do you like the feel of the radio? Is it metal? Plastic? Do you feel it's going to hold up to abuse? Do you feel it's lower or higher quality than the ft-818? How long do you think it's going to last?

[@OH8STN]

Great questions. The radio is absolutely solid. It's got a full metal body, polycarbonate cover over the display, and the buttons have a solid yet responsive feel to them. It feels at least as solid as the ft-818, with the added benefit of not having any protruding rotary encoders to break. If you shake the radio, there's no rattling from internal components. I did have some beach sand Ingress, between the polycarbonate cover and screen. I had accidentally kicked sand all over my station by mistake. It was easy enough to clean it up, and nothing was damaged. To be honest, it doesn't feel like what we've come to know as a "Chinese radio". This is no Baofeng. Of course, only time will tell how long something will last. I can assure you though, I wouldn't invest the time showing a plastic, fragile, bad investment on the channel. 👍

[@travislytle2211]

@@OH8STN great to hear! I'm still building up the ft-818 as it's my first hf rig so it's always interesting to see what's out there, pros/cons etc.

[@OH8STN]

I've got something special for the ft-818 coming in shortly. You might want to take a look at my community Tab or blog, to find those ft-818 go kit posts

[@travislytle2211]

@@OH8STN yeah I've watched several of your videos and always find them useful. Eventually would like to build/buy a battery pack so I've watched some of them too. Also find the solar panel stuff interesting too.