Although a high-frequency (HF) vertical radio antenna is more easily affected by ground systems and even less clear than the horizontal antenna, it is still preferred for compact construction and omnidirectional radial system.
As a result, you can expect equal signal distributions in all directions. That€™s why you should have a look at the best HF vertical antenna list.
Comet Original GP-3 Dual-Band 146/446 MHz – Best Overall
All in all, we hardly find any noticeable complaints about this Comet Original GP-3 Dual-Band 146/446 MHz. It comes with a 30-feet €œJ€ pole antenna and durable fiberglass, as well as the following specifications:
| The Megahertz | Gain | VSWR | Dimensions | Max Power | Connector |
| 146/446 MHz | 2m to 70cm | 1.5:1 | 5 feet 11 inches | 200 watts | SO-239 |
As can be seen, this vertical HF antenna is very lightweight. Moreover, the installation is easy and quick. You just need to put all parts together 5 to 15 feet above the ground level and ground independent places. The ½-inch galvanized pipe available is also helpful. Plus, you can connect the antenna with SO-239€™s center pin and under the mounting nuts. Hence, the antenna is flawlessly compatible with different repeaters.
In terms of signals, the Comet Original GP-3 Dual-Band 146/446 MHz supports two bands of UHF and VHF. Specifically, the exact spectrums are 144-148 Mhz for 2M and 440-450 Mhz for 440 UHF, respectively.
Without alteration, the VSWR on 2M is 1.2, and that on 70cm is 1.35. These figures mean that the Comet GP3 is powerful.
Pros:
- Built-to-last vertical antenna
- Lightweight and easy to install together
- Additional galvanized pipe and possible SO-239 connector
- High frequencies for a better signal transmitting
- Surprisingly affordable choice
Cons:
- Possible drain holes on the side of the pipe
- Just average gain
- No auto tuner at the price
In terms of price and performance, the Comet Original GP-3 Dual-Band 146/446 MHz is the best choice for the time being.
OPEK HVT-400B HF/VHF Multi-Band Mobile Antenna – Best for Mobile Use
As its name suggests, OPEK HVT-400B HF MultiBand Vertical Mobile Antenna is built with transmitting mobile signals in mind.
Specifications:
| The Megahertz | Gain | VSWR | Dimensions | Max Power | Connector |
| 146/446 MHz | 6m to 70cm | Low | 6 feet | 120 watts | UHF Male (PL-259) |
For a mobile antenna, the way of installation is the most important. Ideally, the antenna systems should be possibly mounted in the roof center of the vehicles or even on window glass to minimize the ground radial distraction.
When it comes to the OPEK HVT-400B, the manufacturer says that the antenna works well with the UHF Male (PL-259.) This antenna mounted connector is the most common for two-way and CB radio applications and interconnecting equipment. Excitingly enough, the antenna is also compatible with other mounting types such as a ring connector on the SO-239, DX engineerings, standard magnet mounts, trunk lip, etc. For that reason, you can attach this device to the roof of vehicles or trunk.
Besides, the OPEK HVT-400B supports broad gains and VHF and HF bands from 80/40/20/15/10/6/2 Meters to 70cm frequency.
Pros:
- A low-cost antenna for mobile
- Multiple HF bands thorough a wide gain
- Compatible with various mounting types
Cons:
- Hard to tune
- Possible static due to loose collar
Featuring an average length and flexible compatibility with various mobile radio brands, the OPEK HVT-400B will guarantee a constant signal connection on travel.
HYS VHF UHF Mult-Band Mobile Radio – Best Versatile for Multiple Bands
Specifications:
| The Megahertz | Gain | VSWR | Dimensions | Max Power | Connector |
| 144; 245 to 430Mhz | 2m to 70cm | Low | 3 feet tall | 100 watts | SL-16 Female and UHF Male |
Similar to the OPEK HVT-400B, HYS VHF UHF Mult-Band Mobile Radio Wave Vertical is also recommended for mobile purposes.
Accordingly, the device is effortless to install thanks to its compact and functional construction. You can even adjust the direction of the antenna without removing it from the means of transportation. Besides, both SL-16 Female and UHF Male connectors are supported so you can easily use the HYS VHF UHF for almost all mobile radios, such as BaoFeng radios, Kenwood, TYT, and Anytone ham radios.
Plus, the length of 37.9 inches – equivalent to 3 feet is very convenient to settle upon your vehicles.
Moreover, the antenna comes with a wide range of frequencies from 144 to 430Mhz, meaning that it provides even enhanced signals.
Pros:
- Multiple mobile brands from BaoFeng to TYT
- Compact stainless steel body
- Connectable SL-16J (MALE) & UHF MALE
Cons:
- More expensive than others on the list
Currently. HYS VHF UHF Mult-Band Mobile Radio supports the widest range of brands. Thus, we recommend it in case you often need to work with different radio brands.
Authentic Genuine Nagoya UT-72 Super Loading Coil – Best for Budget
Choose an HF vertical antenna like HYS VHF UHF Multiband Mobile Radio, you will get exciting and functional features. However, if you just use the antenna for common purposes, then an economical dual-band is far enough.
Take Authentic Genuine Nagoya UT-72, for example.
Specifications:
| The Megahertz | Gain | VSWR | Dimensions | Max Power | Connector |
| 136 to 520MHz | 2m to 70cm | Less 1.5:1 | 1.6 feet | 80watts | SMA-F & PL-259, and UHF Male |
First off, the Authentic Genuine Nagoya UT-72 is made of stainless steel material to hold with different weather conditions. Moreover, there is the super-landing coil to wrap the antenna more tightly for better UHF range and reception.
In addition, the device is ultra-easy to install omnidirectionally with both handheld and mobile radios. This is mostly thanks to the flexible SMA coax cable and the magnetic-mount compatibility. Specifically, the Authentic Genuine Nagoya UT-72 wire antenna is 1.6 feet long – portable enough to stay on steel bodies like cars, vans, SUVs, and trucks. Meanwhile, the SMA adapter jumper makes it easy to work with the handheld radios.
Although the short antenna is not as good at catching signals as the long, you might worry less knowing that this device comes with influential MHz figures 144MHz for ¼ waves and 430MHz for … waves. The earlier is suitable for urban environments, and the latter is the best for flat terrains and sparse signal coverage.
Pros:
-
- Very pocket-friendly
- Portable antenna
- Compatible with both mobile and handheld radio
- Accessories like magnetic base and SMA cable included
- From authorized dealer
Cons:
- Short antennas
- Thick construction
- Hard-to-switch antenna tuner
All in all, Authentic Genuine Nagoya UT-72 has an excellent performance at the price.
Conclusion
To wrap the reviews on the best HF vertical antenna, we would like to gather some useful notes:
- Choose either dual-band and multi-band vertical dipoles based on your actual needs.
- Take the installation method in mind, is it a base antenna?
- Pick up short antennas for mobile radios and long antennas to improve the quality of transmitted signals.
- Finally, the Comet Original GP-3 Dual-Band 146/446 MHz is the winner of the roundup thanks to its compact design and reliable performance.