The Most Popular Ham Radio Frequency, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the ham radio frequency you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 4, 2024 06:39
Ham radio enthusiasts often face the challenge of identifying which frequencies are currently active and popular. By having a centralized list that ranks these frequencies based on user votes, operators can easily find the most engaged channels. This saves time and enhances the experience of participating in ham radio communications, ensuring that users can connect with others effectively.
Voting on this list not only helps in creating a dynamic resource that adjusts with user interest and frequency activity but also empowers the ham radio community by giving each member a voice in shaping this resource. As more users vote and contribute their insights, the rankings become an invaluable tool for both seasoned operators and newcomers eager to dive into the world of ham radio.
What Is the Most Popular Ham Radio Frequency?
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149votesThis frequency is known as the "International Frequency for Emergency Communications" and is often used for emergency communication in times of disaster or crisis.14.313 MHz is a popular ham radio frequency used for long-distance communication in the high-frequency (HF) band. It is primarily used by amateur radio operators for voice communication, especially during periods of increased solar activity that enhance propagation on this frequency.
- Frequency: 14.313 MHz
- Band: High Frequency (HF)
- Type: Voice communication
- Primary use: Long-distance communication
- Enhanced propagation: During periods of increased solar activity
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226votesThis frequency is commonly used for long-distance communication and is popular among amateur radio enthusiasts.7.200 MHz is a popular ham radio frequency that falls within the 40-meter band. It is widely used for long-distance communication, especially during daytime hours. This frequency allows amateur radio operators to connect with others around the world and engage in various activities such as contests, emergency communications, and general conversations.
- Frequency Band: 40 meters
- Frequency Range: 7.000 - 7.300 MHz
- Usage: Amateur radio communication
- Propagation: Best during daylight hours
- Modulation: Various modes including CW, SSB, and digital
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318votes
Tiltec · Public domain3.690 MHz
Amateur radio communityThis frequency is known as the "Nighttime Frequency for Emergency Communications" and is often used for emergency communication during nighttime hours.The frequency 3.690 MHz is a popular ham radio frequency that is commonly used for long-distance communications. It is a part of the 80-meter band, which is known for its ability to propagate signals with low power and simple antennas. This frequency offers reliable communication during both day and night, making it suitable for amateur radio operators who desire long-range contacts with other stations.- Frequency: 3.690 MHz
- Band: 80-meter
- Propagation: Good for both day and night
- Antenna requirements: Simple antennas can be used effectively
- Power level: Low power can achieve reliable communication
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416votesThis frequency is commonly used for local communication and is popular among amateur radio operators in the United States.The 147.000 MHz ham radio frequency is a commonly used frequency by amateur radio operators for local communication and emergency communications. It operates in the 2-meter band and allows for reliable communication over a moderate range.
- Frequency: 147.000 MHz
- Band: 2 meters
- Modulation: FM (Frequency Modulation)
- Power: Up to 50 watts
- Channelization: Narrowband (12.5 kHz) or wideband (25 kHz)
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514votesThis frequency is commonly used for long-distance communication and is popular among amateur radio enthusiasts who enjoy "DXing" (communicating with distant stations).28.400 MHz is a popular ham radio frequency used for communication among amateur radio operators. It is primarily used for long-distance communication, as signals on this frequency can travel relatively far. It is commonly referred to as the 10-meter band, as it falls within the 10-meter wavelength range.
- Frequency: 28.400 MHz
- Wavelength: 10 meters
- Frequency Range: 28.000 - 29.700 MHz
- Modes: SSB, CW, FM, AM
- License Requirements: Amateur Radio License
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616votesThis frequency is commonly used for "six-meter" communication and is popular among amateur radio operators who enjoy communicating over longer distances.The 50.125 MHz frequency is a popular ham radio frequency used for FM voice communication. It is commonly used by amateur radio operators around the world for local and regional communications.
- Frequency: 50.125 MHz
- Modulation: FM (Frequency Modulation)
- Usage: Amateur radio communications
- Communication Mode: Voice
- Bandwidth: 12.5 kHz
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79votesThis frequency is commonly used for "two-meter" communication and is popular among amateur radio operators for local communication and emergency communication.The 144.200 MHz frequency is one of the most popular frequencies used by amateur radio operators for communication. It falls within the 2 meter band, which is widely used for various purposes such as local and regional communication, emergency communication, and contests.
- Frequency: 144.200 MHz
- Band: 2 meters
- Mode: FM, SSB, CW, Digital modes
- Primary use: Communication, contests, emergency communication
- Propagation: VHF line-of-sight
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85votes
10.140 MHz
Joe Taylor, K1JTThis frequency is commonly used for digital communication and is popular among amateur radio operators who enjoy experimenting with digital modes such as PSK31.10.140 MHz is a popular ham radio frequency used for digital communications, specifically for the FT-8 mode.- Frequency: 10.140 MHz
- Mode: FT-8
- Band: 30 meters
- Modulation: 8-FSK
- Power Limit: 200 watts
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910votesThis frequency is commonly used for long-distance communication and is popular among amateur radio enthusiasts who enjoy "DXing" and contesting.The 21.200 MHz frequency is a popular ham radio frequency used by amateur radio operators for long-distance communication. It is part of the 15-meter band, which is allocated for amateur radio use worldwide. This frequency allows for reliable communication over moderate distances during both day and night time conditions.
- Frequency: 21.200 MHz
- Band: 15-meter
- Amateur Radio Allocation: Yes
- Region: Worldwide
- Propagation: Moderate distances
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104votesThis frequency is commonly used for simplex communication (direct communication between two stations without the use of a repeater) and is popular among amateur radio operators for local communication.The ham radio frequency 145.500 MHz is a popular simplex communication channel used by amateur radio operators worldwide. It is primarily utilized for short-range two-way voice communication and data transmission within local areas or in conjunction with repeaters.
- Frequency: 145.500 MHz
- Mode: FM (Frequency Modulation)
- Bandwidth: 12.5 kHz
- Power Output: Varies based on license class
- Modulation Types: Analog
Missing your favorite ham radio frequency?
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Ranking factors for popular ham radio frequency
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Band availabilityEnsure that you are considering the frequencies available within the allocated amateur radio bands. These bands differ depending on the region and are regulated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).
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LicensingDepending on the level of the operator's license, access to certain frequencies and bands may be restricted. Make sure to check the allowed frequencies for your specific license to ensure compliance with regulations.
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Propagation conditionsThe ability of a radio wave to propagate, or travel through the atmosphere, depends on factors such as frequency, time of day, and solar activity. Some bands may be more popular during certain conditions, so take note of when and where you plan to operate your ham radio.
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Activity levelMeasure how busy a frequency is by monitoring the amount of traffic and number of users communicating on that frequency. Popular frequencies often have higher activity levels due to the larger number of users.
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PurposeThe popularity of a frequency could also depend on its intended use, such as contests, emergency communication, or long-distance (DX) communication.
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Equipment compatibilityThe radio equipment you use might limit the frequencies you can access. Ensure your equipment can access the popular frequencies you're considering.
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Online resources and forumsCheck online resources, forums, and local clubs to find out which frequencies are popular in your area. Other operators' experiences can also be a valuable source of information.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular ham radio frequency. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or frequency is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 3037 views
- 168 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each frequency once every 24 hours. The rank of each frequency is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular ham radio frequency
Ham radio, also known as amateur radio, is a popular pastime for many individuals who enjoy communicating with others around the world using radio frequencies. There are many different frequencies available for ham radio operators to use, but some are more popular than others. The most popular ham radio frequency is the 2 meter band, which operates at a frequency of 144 to 148 MHz. This frequency is popular among ham radio enthusiasts because it provides a good balance between range and available equipment. Other popular frequencies include the 70 centimeter band and the 6 meter band, which have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Regardless of the frequency used, ham radio operators enjoy the challenge of communicating with others using only radio waves and their own technical knowledge.
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