Amateur radio
RTL-SDR Multipurpose Dipole Antenna Kit for SDR Receivers
Product description
This multipurpose dipole package is aimed at USB SDR users and includes all the basic pieces needed to expand reception and experiment with antenna setups.
Contents: one dipole base fitted with a 60 cm RG174 lead, two larger telescopic elements that extend from 23 cm up to around 1 m, two shorter telescopic elements that extend from roughly 5 cm to 13 cm, a 3 m RG173 extension cable, a flexible tripod mount and a suction-cup mount for temporary placement.
Materials and build: the kit uses standard coax types (RG174 on the base lead and RG173 for the 3 m extension) and metal telescopic rods. The tripod and suction mounts are plastic with moving joints to position the antenna. The telescopic arms allow various antenna geometries and orientations.
Use: plug the dipole into your RTL-SDR or other USB SDR receiver and experiment with antenna lengths, angles and mounting locations. The extension cable lets you separate the antenna from the receiver to reach higher or clearer positions. Suitable for airband, VHF, ham and general HF/VHF listening under many conditions; keep the assembly sheltered from rain and avoid leaving the telescopic elements under continuous stress.
Pros
- Improves reception vs stock dongle antennas
- Multiple telescopic elements and two mounts for flexible placement
- Includes a 3 m extension cable for remote antenna positioning
Cons
- Telescopic rods are fragile and can loosen over time
- Mounting hardware and threaded inserts can be a bit wobbly
- Not weatherproof — avoid leaving outdoors in rain
VerdictA practical and portable antenna bundle that noticeably improves reception compared with basic stock dongle antennas. The kit provides multiple telescopic elements and two mounting choices, plus a useful 3 m extension cable for flexible placement. Build quality is generally acceptable for casual use, though the telescopic rods and some fittings can feel delicate and it isn't weatherproof. Overall,
Reader reviews
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Dana Peterson 5/5
Must-have for RF hobbyists
If you follow radio frequencies, this is a great addition. Easy to set up and quickly turns your PC into a capable receiver. I really like it.
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Rick Angelone 5/5
Multiple units, no problems
I own five and plan to get another. Two run on Raspberry Pi SDRs and three on PCs — all have performed without issues.
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Jeff B 4/5
Mixed results for distant VHF
Could not pull in FOX Austin VHF from roughly 20 miles in my test.
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Ajay 5/5
Solid quality and reception
The antennas and accessories seem well made and I'm getting good reception with the kit.
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Gengen 5/5
Nice accessory kit
Comes with two pairs of telescoping antennas and two different mounts. A useful addition for an SDR.
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Gilles Vandal 5/5
As described, repeat purchase
Exactly as described — I bought a second one and it works reliably.
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KD9WTS 5/5
Great for aircraft tracking
Much better than the stock dongle antenna; I routinely pick up planes around 35 miles away depending on terrain. Use SDR software and keep the antenna elevated; wind can make the telescopic pole sway.
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Fernando MP Lobo 5/5
Very handy
This antenna set is very practical and easy to use.
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H.P. de Groot 5/5
Tripod-mounted setup performs well
Tripod with the antenna gives solid reception. I mainly use it for DAB+ and a bit of ham listening.
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semtex65 5/5
Portable and versatile, but delicate
Bought a second so one stays at home and one at the office. Works well for airband and military frequencies; lightweight and the suction mount is handy. Not weatherproof and the telescopic elements are fragile.
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Robert Fowler 3/5
Works but feels a bit overpriced
Essentially basic rabbit-ears with a long extension and two mounting options. It does the job but seems like it should cost noticeably less.
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J. Pankow 4/5
Useful kit with a few loose parts
Good overall, though a couple of antenna threads wobble and the suction-ball had a small broken tab but still works. Far more practical than older mag-mounts.
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