Xiegu G90: The Portable HF SDR Transceiver Bridging QRP and Base Station Performance

Software-Defined Architecture at Its Core

The G90 employs a sophisticated software-defined architecture built around a 24-bit codec operating at 48 kHz baseband sampling. This digital foundation provides the flexibility that traditional superheterodyne designs cannot match, enabling adaptive filtering, customizable signal processing, and future feature expansion through firmware updates.

The radio incorporates a high-performance RF front end with narrowband preselectors to maintain strong-signal handling despite its compact size. Users can engage preamplification for weak-signal work or activate attenuation when confronting powerful nearby transmitters, providing dynamic range control suited to varying field conditions.

A particularly thoughtful feature is the baseband I/Q output, which enables interfacing with external devices for panadapter displays or enhanced digital-mode workflows beyond the radio’s internal capabilities.

Comprehensive Coverage and Operating Modes

The G90 provides general coverage reception from 0.5 to 30 MHz, encompassing longwave, medium wave, and the entire HF spectrum for shortwave listening enthusiasts. Transmission capability spans the amateur bands from 160 through 10 meters (1.8-30 MHz), covering all traditional HF allocations.

Operating modes include USB/LSB for voice communications, CW/CWR for Morse code operations, and AM for vintage-style communications or monitoring. The radio also lists NFM (narrow FM) capability, though documentation indicates some FM functions may require external controllers like the GSOC for full implementation.

Power output reaches 20 watts for SSB and CW modes, providing sufficient punch for reliable communications while maintaining reasonable current consumption. AM transmission operates at a reduced 5-watt carrier level, reflecting the efficiency constraints of amplitude modulation in a portable SDR platform.

The Game-Changing Internal ATU

Perhaps the G90’s most compelling feature for field operators is its built-in wide-range automatic antenna tuner. This integrated ATU rapidly matches end-fed wires, random-length antennas, and compact mobile whips without requiring external tuning units that add bulk and complexity to portable stations.

Operation proves refreshingly straightforward: a short press of the dedicated ATU button engages or bypasses the tuner circuit, while a long press initiates an automatic tuning cycle. The radio automatically returns to receive mode after completing the match, minimizing QRM during the tuning process.

This capability transforms field deployment scenarios. Operators can quickly adapt to available supports, throwing wires into trees or using compromise antennas while maintaining efficient power transfer across multiple bands. The tuner’s wide matching range accommodates the non-resonant antennas often necessary in temporary installations.

Visual Band Awareness Through Spectrum Display

The color TFT display presents real-time spectrum scope and waterfall functionality, features typically reserved for larger base stations or computer-connected radios. This visual representation of band activity fundamentally changes how operators interact with the HF spectrum, enabling rapid identification of signals, clear frequencies, and propagation conditions.

The waterfall display proves particularly valuable for digital modes, allowing operators to visually identify FT8, PSK31, or RTTY signals before tuning. For SSB operations, the spectrum scope facilitates precise zero-beating and helps avoid interference with ongoing QSOs.

2025 Firmware Enhancements

Recent firmware development demonstrates Xiegu’s commitment to platform improvement. Version 1.80, released in April 2025, addresses several operational refinements that enhance both casual operation and digital mode integration.

The update resolves an intermittent FFT display freeze that occasionally affected the spectrum and waterfall presentation. More significantly, it optimizes the automatic gain control (AGC) system for lower background noise and smoother audio recovery, improvements immediately noticeable during crowded band conditions or weak-signal work.

Digital mode enthusiasts benefit from enhanced CI-V command support, enabling more reliable integration with popular software like WSJT-X and JTDX. The firmware implements newly supported command pairs (0x25/0x26 and 0x1D/0x19) that improve rig control and frequency readback, critical for automated digital mode operation.

Mobile and Portable Deployment

The detachable front panel design acknowledges modern installation realities. Mobile operators can mount the main unit in a trunk or under a seat while positioning the control head within easy reach. This separation capability also benefits home stations with limited desk space or unconventional mounting requirements.

For field deployment, the complete package remains remarkably portable. The chassis measures just 120 × 45 × 210 mm, easily fitting in a backpack alongside battery, antenna, and accessories. The 20-watt output level strikes an optimal balance between QRP limitations and the bulk of 100-watt field radios.

Current consumption specifications guide power planning: receive mode draws approximately 700-750 mA, while transmission can reach 6-8 amps at full output. These figures enable realistic battery sizing for portable operations, whether using lithium-iron-phosphate packs or traditional sealed lead-acid batteries.

Digital Mode Integration

With the CI-V enhancements in firmware 1.80, the G90 integrates smoothly with contemporary digital mode software. WSJT-X and JTDX users report reliable CAT control for FT8 and FT4 operations, modes that have revolutionized weak-signal communications.

The baseband I/Q output and conventional audio interfaces support diverse digital workflows. Operators can implement everything from traditional PSK31 and RTTY to modern weak-signal protocols, using either direct audio connections or the I/Q stream for optimal signal processing.

Practical Performance Considerations

Real-world deployment reveals both strengths and limitations. The SDR architecture delivers excellent selectivity and filtering flexibility, allowing operators to narrow bandwidth for CW work or open filters wide for broadcast listening. The 24-bit audio codec provides pleasant recovered audio, particularly noticeable on strong SSB signals.

Dynamic range, while respectable for a portable SDR, cannot match high-end base stations. Ultra-strong signal environments, such as Field Day sites with multiple transmitters, may require judicious use of attenuation to prevent overload. The preamp and attenuator controls become valuable tools for optimizing performance across varying conditions.

Thermal management deserves attention during extended transmission periods. The compact chassis limits heat dissipation, making adequate ventilation important for sustained 20-watt operation. Digital mode operators running long FT8 sessions should monitor temperature and consider duty cycle limitations.

Market Position and Value Proposition

The G90 occupies a unique market position between QRP transceivers and full-power portable radios. Its 20-watt output significantly exceeds typical 5-10 watt QRP radios, providing the extra margin often needed for reliable contacts, particularly during marginal propagation conditions.

Independent reviews consistently highlight strong value proposition: a genuine SDR with waterfall display and automatic antenna tuner at a mid-market price point. While menu navigation depth and certain ergonomic choices draw occasional criticism, the core functionality delivers on its promises.

Spurious emission suppression exceeds 50 dB, carrier suppression reaches 40 dB, and sideband suppression achieves 55 dB or better, specifications that demonstrate attention to spectral purity despite the affordable pricing.

Applications and Use Cases

Parks on the Air (POTA) and Summits on the Air (SOTA) activators find the G90 particularly well-suited to their needs. The 20-watt output helps overcome the challenges of compromise antennas and difficult locations, while the internal ATU simplifies rapid band changes during activations.

Emergency communicators appreciate the combination of portability and capability. The radio’s general coverage reception enables monitoring of international broadcasts and utility stations, while the amateur band transmission capability supports both local and long-distance emergency networks.

Digital weak-signal enthusiasts leverage the enhanced CI-V control for automated beacon monitoring and scheduled contacts. The visual waterfall display helps identify propagation openings that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Investment Considerations

Prospective buyers should evaluate several factors. Power supply requirements demand attention: a robust 13.8V source capable of delivering 8 amps ensures full-power operation without voltage sag. Quality coaxial connections and proper gauge DC cables prevent power losses that compromise performance.

The learning curve for SDR operation may challenge operators accustomed to traditional radios. Menu navigation and parameter adjustment require patience during initial familiarization, though the investment pays dividends in operational flexibility.

Frequency stability specifications of ±1.5-2 ppm after warm-up prove adequate for most operations but may require external references for microwave transverter applications or extreme weak-signal work.

Ongoing Development and Support

The G90’s market longevity since its pre-2020 introduction, combined with active firmware development through 2025, suggests a stable platform with manufacturer commitment. Continued retailer support and updated documentation indicate healthy market presence rather than end-of-life status.

The recent firmware improvements addressing both operational refinements and digital mode integration demonstrate responsiveness to user feedback and evolving amateur radio practices. This active development distinguishes the G90 from abandoned or stagnant designs.

Conclusion

The Xiegu G90 successfully bridges the gap between minimalist QRP radios and bulky base stations, delivering meaningful HF capability in a portable package. The combination of SDR architecture, integrated antenna tuner, and visual spectrum display creates a compelling platform for modern HF operation.

While not matching the ultimate performance of premium transceivers, the G90 provides remarkable functionality at its price point. Recent firmware enhancements strengthen an already capable platform, particularly for digital mode enthusiasts seeking portable solutions.

For field operators, mobile installations, or space-constrained stations requiring genuine HF capability with modern conveniences, the G90 merits serious consideration. It represents a mature, actively supported platform that acknowledges how amateur radio operators actually use their equipment in 2025.