There’s something electric in the air — and it’s not just RF. The ham radio world is heating up with new transceivers hitting the market, and whether you’re into HF, VHF/UHF, digital modes, or portable ops, there’s something new for you in 2025.
We’re finally seeing some fresh innovation from the big names and a few surprises from smaller players who are stepping up their game. Let’s break down what’s coming and why you should be paying attention.
🆕 Icom’s Rumored Successor to the IC-7300
The IC-7300 has been the king of the entry-level HF scene for years, but word is Icom is working on a modernized replacement — think same price point, but SDR refined, better display, and more robust digital integration.
🛠️ What we want to see:
- Built-in USB-C
- Native FT8 capability
- Even better noise reduction
If Icom nails this, it could be the new default recommendation for new HF operators.
🔧 Yaesu’s HF/VHF/UHF All-Mode Rig (FT-991A Replacement?)
Leaks and chatter suggest Yaesu is eyeing an update to the FT-991A, aiming to keep up with modern SDR expectations. Expect touchscreen enhancements, upgraded filtering, and cleaner digital operation. Think of it as a “Shack in a Box: 2.0.”
📡 Rumored features:
- Larger screen
- USB audio interface improvements
- Improved fan design (finally quiet?)
💻 Xiegu & Radioddity Continue to Push Budget Boundaries
Chinese manufacturers like Xiegu and Radioddity aren’t playing around. The X6100 got people’s attention, and now newer portable HF rigs are expected to land with better firmware and true FT8/JS8Call functionality onboard.
💥 Watch for:
- Touchscreen updates
- Internal sound card/DSP upgrades
- Lower price point than any Yaesu or Icom rig
🛰️ QRP & Portable Ops Are Booming
2025 is shaping up to be huge for portable operators. With Parks on the Air, SOTA, and emergency ops all on the rise, more companies are building lightweight, rugged transceivers with efficient power use and rugged build quality.
🔋 What to expect:
- Internal batteries with USB-C charging
- Smaller form factor
- Bluetooth control via smartphone
📦 Should You Wait or Buy Now?
That depends.
- If you’ve got a working shack and just want an upgrade, you may want to wait for the summer releases.
- But if you’re new and itching to get on the air, grab a proven rig like the IC-7300, FT-891, or 705 now and start learning the ropes.
📈 Like I said in my recent YouTube video — the best radio is the one you use. Don’t wait forever chasing the next big thing.
🎥 What’s Next on HamShackTV?
I’ll be reviewing and testing these radios as soon as they hit the market. Subscribe to the HamShackTV YouTube channel and stay locked in — because when these new rigs drop, you’ll want to know which ones are worth your money.
Live, Learn, Transmit. Welcome to the shack.
— Josh, AA4WX
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