IC-705 vs KX2 : Which is Best For Portable Ops

The Icom IC-705 and the Elecraft KX2 are both outstanding portable QRP radios so which one is best for your outdoor radio activities. This video will attempt to help you in your decision making process.

[bradbuck]

Thank you- 1. For not feeling the need to wear a hat indoors for a video, and 2. Your presentation was well executed, without all the nervous “ums”and “uhs” present in too many ham videos. Great comparison of two radios without distractions!

[SamGamgeeful]

The 705s GPS can be used to set your computer time for digital modes. A very important feature in the field! As I don't do CW, the 705 is the winner in my (pocket)book !

[douglassharafanowich]

"I catch myself smiling". THAT is the best answer. 👍👍

[WisconsinGabe]

Sdr-control, an iPad and the 705 is a wireless digital mode dream!

[scottheath]

😊 I don't usually comment on videos but I must state how useful & well-thoughtout this one was❗ Thank you❗😁

[waew]

Elecraft just announced a new internal battery charger option for the KX2 (probably right after you published this video). For me, the CW features and the excellent built-in tuner made the decision for me.

[whippersnappercc]

Great comparison. I am in the blessed position to have both. They are both awesome. I figured I would end up using the 705 more because of the bling factor and the sweet scope. I find myself using the KX2 more because it is just so easy and convenient, especially with the tuner. As a CW guy, there is simply no comparison to the lack of relays and silent operation in the KX2. I must say, though, that the 705 is pretty damn quiet for a rig that uses relay switching. I want to do some VHF/UHF this spring and am looking forward to using the 705 more. We've come a long way since I was first licensed in 1983!

[haramanggapuja]

I played the Elecraft boxes at Piero Begali’s factory. Nice radios & great location, of course. But it was the IC-705 on display at Dayton with the Begali Adventure paddles that sold me on that radio (and key). And you have to consider — as you noted — the extra VHF/UHF bands really make for interesting POTA & FD ops. Almost a year of ‘705 later, I’m often amazed at how nice the ‘705 rolls. Backyard or out in a park, it’s performed well on CW & FT8/4. Nice comparison video. Thanks! 73 de W8IJN

[tomklol]

Excellent comparison between the two radios. I've had a KX2 for about 4 years now and love it but I do appreciate your thoughts and comments on the 705. Makes me want to own both!

[GraveyardTortellini]

Thank you for sharing some new video content featuring the KX2! I have a 705 and am waiting on a KX2.

[CarrieJamrogowicz]

I was shopping for something to do SOTA with here in Montana so I got the KX2 but knowing myself I will probably end up with both.

[JonathanBaileynu]

Thank you sir for your video. I like this approach… very helpful.

[stefanpaul]

I really like simple devices (focusing on primary functionality without too much extra stuff and gamification) and I operate 90% or more portable in field - so after several years using the FT818 I just ordered a KX2 with several optional stuff. Yes - expensive. Very expensive in the complete package. But I’m really excited on getting this thing out in the field with some random wire antenna and doing wonderful contacts all over the world😊).

[DKONV]

In Principle the Best Radio for whatever Usage you want it or need it is the One that works for you and makes you happy playing with it on every new Day to provide maximum of Joy. Your Friend Uncle Guenter just said that. Tnx for the neat Video. 73 de DK5ONV

[tonyd]

Thanks for the comparison both are great radios. Not being a cw person yet I would choose the 705. If you go out to SOTA or POTA in cw elecraft is the choice. I need both.

[betterbprepared]

Great comparison. I am looking at getting either a KX2/KX3, or the Lab599 Discovery or the FX-4CR. Not sure which way I will go. Big difference between these 3 radios, so use case will play into the decision, but all three will do what I need, which is portable operations, predominately POTA. I am going to work at learning CW this winter and will purchase one of these radios as a "reward", so CW will be a big factor in the use case. Again, great comparison.

[bernhardfluche]

Very good comparison -the KX-2 now has the option for charging the battery without taking it off. Makes life much easier😅

[richylad]

The 705 can access the voice or keyer memories directly from the microphone buttons, regardless of screen layout

[AlejandroGonzalez-AGS]

Nice honest review…very hard choice! Thanks for sharing. Be safe. Cheers.. 73,

[TingILi]

Both. But if the cause of the budget issue I recommend the IC-705. IC-705 all of the feathers are ahead of the KX2, but the KX2 is for the collection.