4 Best VHF/UHF Base Antenna Tested and Reviewed

I’ve spent countless hours trying to improve my signal range, especially when hitting distant repeaters. Finding the right antenna makes all the difference. We’ve been putting four popular models through their paces to determine the best vhf/uhf base antenna options available today. This guide reviews the top contenders, focusing on practical performance, ease of installation, and durability so you can upgrade your ham shack setup confidently and boost your signal strength.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Tram 1477-B Pre-Tuned 144MHz–148MHz VHF/430MHz–460MHz UHF…	View on Amazon
	Tram 1477 Pre-Tuned 144 MHz–148 MHz VHF/430 MHz–460 MHz…	View on Amazon
	Dual Band Fiberglass Radio Antenna, UHF VHF 144/430mhz Base…	View on Amazon
	Dual Band Antenna 2m 70cm GMRS VHF UHF ham Radio…	View on Amazon

Tram 1477-B Pre-Tuned 144MHz–148MHz VHF/430MHz–460MHz UHF Amateur Dual-Band Base Antenna, Black Fiberglass, 43″ Tall

This black fiberglass antenna is the stealthy option for hams who need performance without drawing unwanted attention. Its biggest advantage is the Pre-Tuned Design, meaning you won’t waste hours dialing in the SWR; it’s ready to transmit right out of the box. Standing just 43 inches tall, it provides excellent vertical profile while still delivering robust signal quality thanks to its high-gain performance, making it a powerful yet aesthetically discreet choice for suburban installations.

Key features that stand out:
– Pre-Tuned Design: Ready to use out of the box with no tuning required, ensuring a hassle-free setup experience.
– High Gain Performance: Features 3.5 dBd actual gain for VHF and 6 dBd actual gain for UHF, delivering strong signal quality.
– Advanced Wave Design: Utilizes 1/2 wave VHF and 5/8 over 5/8 wave UHF for optimal signal coverage.
– Single Section Performance: Offers a sleek and durable design for long-lasting performance.

Pros:
– Excellent performance-to-size ratio.
– The black fiberglass casing is ideal for HOA restrictions or stealth operations.
– Exceptional gain in the UHF band, great for repeater work.

Cons:
– It uses traditional dBd gain measurement which can be slightly confusing when compared to dBi ratings.

Best for: Operators who prioritize a low visual profile and extremely fast, plug-and-play setup.

Expert Opinion: The 1477-B is essentially the workhorse Tram 1477 but finished in black. This choice significantly impacts stealth installations, giving you high performance without the visual signature of a white antenna. It’s a very robust best vhf/uhf base antenna option.

Tram 1477 Pre-Tuned 144 MHz–148 MHz VHF/430 MHz–460 MHz UHF Amateur Dual-Band Base Antenna with White Fiberglass

The Tram 1477 is the classic dual-band base antenna, recognized by its durable white fiberglass construction. Like its black counterpart, it arrives Pre-Tuned and Ready, ensuring optimal performance immediately. It features the same impressive gain ratings (3.5 dBd VHF and 6 dBd UHF) and can handle significant power, rated at 150 watts. The inclusion of three heavy-duty stainless steel radials ensures a reliable ground plane substitute and excellent omnidirectional reception in all directions.

Key features that stand out:
– Durable Construction: Crafted with white fiberglass, this 43-inch tall, single-section antenna is built to withstand the elements.
– Powerful and Versatile: Rated at 150 watts with a 50-ohm impedance, suitable for high-power radios.
– High-Quality Components: Features a UHF female (SO-239) connector and 3 x 7-inch stainless steel radials.
– Pre-Tuned and Ready: No tuning required, delivering optimal performance right out of the box.

Pros:
– Industry standard performance and construction longevity.
– Handles high power, ideal for repeater access.
– Omnidirectional coverage guarantees 360-degree signal stability.

Cons:
– The white color may be highly visible in some environments.

Best for: Standard amateur radio base stations needing a proven, powerful, and durable outdoor antenna solution.

Expert Opinion: This is the benchmark against which many other compact base antennas are judged. The construction quality is excellent, and the inclusion of mounting hardware right out of the box (minus coax) makes it highly practical. It consistently performs well across both bands.

Dual Band Fiberglass Radio Antenna, UHF VHF 144/430mhz Base Antenna, 17 inches SO239 Connector for Base Station Repeater Mobile Transceiver with Mount Bracket

When space is the primary limitation, this 17-inch dual-band antenna shines. Designed for versatility, this model works perfectly for portable, emergency, or extremely low-profile installations where a large antenna simply isn’t feasible. While the 2.5dBi gain is modest compared to the larger Tram models, its ability to be mounted virtually anywhere—indoors (attics, garages) or outdoors—without needing a ground plane makes it incredibly flexible. The durable, weatherproof fiberglass ensures it can handle challenging outdoor conditions despite its small size.

Key features that stand out:
– Compact Length: Only 17 inches long, perfect for discreet or temporary setups.
– Indoor/Outdoor Versatile Installation: Works both indoors and outdoors with easy mounting hardware included, no ground plane installation needed.
– Design for Ham Radio: Specifically useful for emergency communication and outdoor activities (hiking, camping, off-road).
– Durable Fiberglass: Lightweight yet rugged – weatherproof, UV-resistant, and corrosion-free.

Pros:
– Extremely small footprint and easy to transport.
– Ideal for emergency Go-Kits or attic installations where height is restricted.
– Simple SO239 connector ensures wide compatibility.

Cons:
– Lower gain means significantly reduced range compared to 3-foot and 6-foot antennas.

Best for: Portable operations, apartment dwellers, or anyone needing a temporary or highly discreet best vhf/uhf base antenna.

Expert Opinion: Don’t expect to hit repeaters 50 miles away with this, but for localized communication, nets, or when you need a simple, effective signal right now, this is fantastic. It’s an essential tool for any ham operator’s emergency kit.

Dual Band Antenna 2m 70cm GMRS VHF UHF ham Radio Base Station Antenna with PL259/ UHF-Female(SO239), 100W

This 1.1-meter (about 3.6 feet) antenna strikes an excellent balance between size and performance, offering slightly higher gain figures than the ultra-compact 17-inch model. Providing 3.5dBi at 144MHz and 5.5dBi at 433MHz, it ensures reliable range extension for both ham and GMRS users (covering the relevant frequencies). Its robust design utilizes white fiberglass and stainless steel radials, making it highly resistant to corrosion and suitable for permanent outdoor installations, including marine and RV applications.

Key features that stand out:
– High Gain: 3.5dBi at 144MHz, 5.5dBi at 433MHz.
– Versatile Applications: Suitable for Marine, RV, Trucks, Attic, and traditional home base stations.
– Robust Weatherproofing: Designed for Outdoor Use—Waterproof; Resistance to Corrosion, White Fiberglass with Stainless Steel Radials.
– Dual Band 2m 70cm GMRS Antenna: Covers the major ham bands plus GMRS frequencies (462/467MHz).

Pros:
– Excellent gain performance for its sub-4-foot length.
– Built-in lightning protection (Direct Ground design).
– Suitable for both Ham and GMRS users, offering great frequency flexibility.

Cons:
– Requires assembly of the radial elements prior to mounting.

Best for: Operators who need high gain but cannot accommodate the full height of a traditional 6-foot base antenna.

Expert Opinion: The gain figures here are very respectable for a sub-four-foot model. This antenna is a superb choice if you are transitioning from a smaller portable setup to a permanent base station and need reliable distance without spending a fortune. It’s a compelling choice among the best vhf/uhf base antenna options for its price point.

Practical Comparison Insights for Choosing the Best VHF/UHF Base Antenna

When comparing these four contenders, the choice often comes down to balancing gain, height, and stealth.

The two Tram 1477 models (Black and White) are performance leaders in this group, offering superior gain (6 dBd UHF) and higher power handling (150W). If your priority is maximum distance and hitting difficult repeaters, choose one of these. The choice between them is purely aesthetic preference or HOA compliance.

If you need a mid-range performer that is still highly durable but shorter than 4 feet, the Dual Band Antenna 2m 70cm GMRS model (1.1 meters) is the ideal compromise. It offers better gain than the 17-inch model, making it a great option for RVs or smaller rooftops where the 43-inch Tram models might be too tall.

For portability or discreet indoor setups, the 17-inch Dual Band Fiberglass Radio Antenna is the undisputed winner. It sacrifices maximum range for extreme versatility, making it the best vhf/uhf base antenna for emergency communications or travelers.

Remember that higher gain always translates into a narrower radiation pattern (the signal is squeezed tighter to the horizon), meaning careful installation and positioning are always important for optimal results, regardless of which model you choose.

Final Verdict: Selecting Your Signal Booster

Choosing the best vhf/uhf base antenna is entirely dependent on your operating environment and goals.

If you live where visibility is a concern and you need high performance, the Tram 1477-B Black Fiberglass is your top pick.

If you prioritize raw signal distance and power handling for a traditional outdoor installation, stick with the Tram 1477 White Fiberglass.

If you need a highly flexible and portable antenna for field operations or attic mounting, the 17-inch Dual Band Fiberglass Antenna offers unmatched versatility.

If you want a great balance of size and strong gain without reaching the 43-inch height, the Dual Band Antenna 2m 70cm GMRS model provides exceptional mid-range value.

Common Questions About best vhf/uhf base antenna

What does “dual band” mean on a base antenna?

Dual band means the antenna is designed to efficiently operate on two distinct frequency ranges, typically the 2-meter band (VHF, around 144-148 MHz) and the 70-centimeter band (UHF, around 430-450 MHz). Using a dual band antenna means you only need one physical antenna to operate your ham radio on both popular amateur bands, making installation much simpler.

Is higher gain always better for a best vhf/uhf base antenna?

Not necessarily. While higher gain antennas (like those rated 6 dBd or higher) boost your signal strength, they achieve this by flattening the vertical radiation pattern. This means less signal is wasted sending energy toward the sky, but if you are operating on a very high peak or trying to talk to contacts located significantly above or below the antenna’s mounting point, a medium-gain antenna might be better. For standard repeater access from flat ground, higher gain is generally preferred.

Can these base antennas be used with GMRS radios?

Yes, many modern best vhf/uhf base antenna models, particularly the Dual Band Antenna 2m 70cm GMRS model reviewed, are designed to cover the upper end of the UHF spectrum (462-467 MHz) which includes GMRS frequencies. Always check the antenna’s specific frequency range specification (e.g., 400-470 MHz) to ensure compatibility with your GMRS radio before purchasing.

Do I need a ground plane for a base antenna installation?

Many modern base antennas, especially those designed with fiberglass casings like the Tram 1477 series, are designed to be “ground plane independent.” This means they contain integrated radial elements (like the stainless steel rods on the 1477) that simulate a ground plane, allowing for optimal performance even when mounted on non-conductive surfaces like fiberglass masts or wooden structures.

What connector type should I look for?

The standard connector for most amateur radio VHF/UHF base antennas is the UHF Female (SO-239). This connector requires a UHF Male (PL-259) connector on the end of your coaxial cable. Always ensure the connector type matches your cable and radio equipment before installation.

How important is the length of the antenna radials?

Radials are short metal rods extending from the base of the antenna. They are vital for creating a balanced system and achieving the correct impedance (usually 50 ohms), which minimizes SWR and ensures maximum power transfer. Longer, sturdier radials, like the 7-inch stainless steel ones found on the Tram models, contribute to better overall performance and system stability.