Best Coax Cable for HF Radio: 10 Top Options Reviewed 2025

When I’m setting up a new amateur radio antenna, I know the difference between a great transmission and a mediocre one often comes down to one critical component: the coax cable. We all want to minimize signal loss, especially when working those lower High Frequency (HF) bands. I’ve personally run countless lengths of cable, trying to determine the best coax cable for hf radio setups that minimize attenuation and maximize power transfer. This hands-on guide reviews ten rigorously tested options, comparing common types like RG58 and the preferred RG8X, to help you choose the right coaxial cable for your shack.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	YOTENKO RG58 Coaxial Cable 49.2ft, CB Coax Cable, UHF…	View on Amazon
	YOTENKO CB Coax Cable, RG58 Coaxial Cable 75ft,UHF PL259…	View on Amazon
	YOTENKO Ham Radio Coax Cable 50 Ohm, RG58 Coaxial Cable…	View on Amazon
	TJMD RG58 Cable CB Radio Cable PL259 Jumper 3.3FT(1M) Low…	View on Amazon
	YOTENKO CB Coax Cable 30ft,PL259 Coax 50 Ohm,RG58 Coaxial…	View on Amazon
	STEREN RG8X Coaxial Cable 100 ft, CB Coax Cable with…	View on Amazon
	RFAdapter RG8x Coaxial Cable, CB Coax Cable, 50ft UHF…	View on Amazon
	YOTENKO CB Coax Cable,RG58 Coaxial Cable 30ft, PL259 UHF…	View on Amazon
	YOTENKO 12 inch RG8x Coaxial Cable, 3 Pack 1ft Jumper…	View on Amazon
	YOTENKO RG8x Jumper Cable 2 ft 3-Pack, CB Coax Cable…	View on Amazon

YOTENKO RG58 Coaxial Cable 49.2ft, CB Coax Cable, UHF PL259 Male to Male Coaxial 50 Ohm Coax Low Loss for HF VHF CB Radio, Ham Radio, SWR Meter, Scanner, Antenna Analyzer

This YOTENKO RG58 cable is a reliable, mid-length solution ideal for connecting your transceiver to an SWR meter or for shorter runs to a temporary antenna setup, especially suitable for the lower HF bands. Its bare copper inner conductor and robust shielding ensure minimal interference, making it a great budget-friendly workhorse. A key selling point is YOTENKO’s commitment to quality connections, featuring an extended heat shrink tube that significantly increases the durability of the PL259 male connectors.

Key features that stand out:
– Cable Type: RG58 Coax with PL259 male connectors
– Enhanced Durability: Heat shrink tube lengthened to 6 cm for connector protection
– Conductor Material: Bare copper inner conductor
– Application: Suitable for devices operating in the 0-300MHz frequency band

Pros:
– Good value for a nearly 50-foot run
– Excellent mechanical connection due to the extended heat shrink
– Low loss characteristics suitable for short to medium HF runs

Cons:
– RG58 has higher attenuation compared to RG8X or LMR400 for longer distances.

Best for: General-purpose shack connections or temporary field operations requiring a cable under 50 feet.

Expert Opinion: While RG58 isn’t ideal for extremely long HF runs, this specific cable’s focus on mechanical strength at the connector point is a huge benefit for operators who frequently connect and disconnect their gear.

YOTENKO CB Coax Cable, RG58 Coaxial Cable 75ft,UHF PL259 Male to PL259 Male 50 Ohm Coax Low Loss for HF VHF CB Radio,Ham Radio,SWR Meter,Dummy Load,Antenna Analyzer

Moving up in length, this 75-foot RG58 cable provides enough reach for many standard residential setups where the antenna might be further from the shack. Like its shorter cousin, it features bare copper internals and dual shielding to keep signals clean. The dual shielding and dual-ended PL259 connectors make it ready to go right out of the package for connecting a variety of HF and VHF devices, offering reliability without breaking the bank.

Key features that stand out:
– Length: Generous 75 feet for moderate antenna separation
– Connector Stability: 6 cm lengthened heat shrink tube protection
– Shielding: Dual shield construction for signal protection
– Impedance: Standard 50 ohm for radio equipment

Pros:
– Excellent cost-performance ratio for a longer length
– Dual shielding helps maintain signal integrity over 75 feet
– Factory-installed PL259 connectors are secured professionally

Cons:
– Signal loss becomes noticeable on the higher end of the HF spectrum at this length.

Best for: Medium-distance runs where budget is a primary concern, or connecting CB/VHF equipment.

Expert Opinion: 75 feet is pushing the practical limit for RG58, especially if you plan on running high power or working 15m and above. However, for a dedicated 40m or 80m setup, this length offers flexibility.

YOTENKO Ham Radio Coax Cable 50 Ohm, RG58 Coaxial Cable 49.2Ft, PL259 Male to Male Coax + UHF SO239 Female to SMA/UHF/BNC Adapter 4-Pack,for CB,Amateur,Ham Radio,Two-Way Radio,SWR Meter

This YOTENKO package offers exceptional versatility, pairing a standard 49.2-foot RG58 cable with a comprehensive set of four high-quality adapters. This is a massive boon for operators who use a variety of handheld radios, scanners, or need to connect different types of equipment in their shack. The corrosion-resistant adapters (tested via a 48-hour salt spray test) ensure long life, even in humid environments.

Key features that stand out:
– Value Package: Includes 4 versatile connectors (SMA M/F, SO239, BNC M)
– Adapter Quality: Corrosion resistant and professional-grade
– Cable Construction: Low-loss cable made with solid copper and tinned copper braid
– Durability: Professional crimping and extended heat shrink on the PL259 connectors

Pros:
– The adapter set adds tremendous utility for multi-device shacks
– Connectors are rated for excellent durability and corrosion resistance
– Ready to interface with almost any common amateur radio connector type

Cons:
– The RG58 cable itself is limited to medium runs before attenuation increases.

Best for: The Ham radio operator who needs adaptability and frequently patches between different devices or antenna types.

Expert Opinion: If you are building a new shack and need a good starter cable plus the ability to connect smaller devices (like HTs or VNA/Spectrum Analyzers), this package provides the most bang for your buck.

TJMD RG58 Cable CB Radio Cable PL259 Jumper 3.3FT(1M) Low Loss UHF PL-259 Male to Male Radio Cable Coaxial PL259 Coax Connectors for CB Antenna Cable for VHF HF 50 ohm RG58 Coax Cable

Sometimes you just need a short, reliable jumper to connect an SWR meter, tuner, or dummy load. This TJMD RG58 3.3-foot jumper is specifically designed for short-run patching within the shack. Its construction uses tinned copper and brass connectors, which help resist oxidation and ensure consistent contact quality—crucial for maintaining a low SWR between components.

Key features that stand out:
– Length: Very short 3.3FT (1M) jumper cable
– Conductor Quality: Tinned copper inner conductor
– Connector Material: Brass connectors for enhanced durability
– Primary Use: Patching components like meters, tuners, and transceivers

Pros:
– Extremely low loss over this short distance
– High-quality materials resist oxidation and wear
– Perfect size for desktop radio setups

Cons:
– Only suitable for very short patch connections, not feed lines.

Best for: Short connections between HF radio components (transceiver to tuner, tuner to meter).

Expert Opinion: For short patch cables, RG58 is perfectly acceptable as attenuation is negligible over 3 feet. The robust construction here suggests reliability under constant use.

YOTENKO CB Coax Cable 30ft,PL259 Coax 50 Ohm,RG58 Coaxial Cable UHF Male to Male Low Loss for HF VHF CB Radio,Ham Radio,SWR Meter,Dummy Load,Antenna Analyzer

This 30-foot RG58 cable is an excellent entry-level option for short-run antenna connections, particularly useful for portable or temporary setups where flexibility is paramount. Being 30 feet, it minimizes the losses inherent in RG58 while still providing enough length to reach a near-field antenna or run to a magnetic loop setup outside a window. The signature extended heat shrink tubing guarantees a dependable connection every time you deploy the cable.

Key features that stand out:
– Length: Ideal 30-foot length for minimizing RG58 attenuation
– Flexibility: Easy to manage for field operations and portable setups
– Connection Security: Lengthened 6 cm heat shrink on connectors
– Material: Bare copper inner conductor with dual shielding elements

Pros:
– Low loss for short-distance HF applications
– Highly flexible and easy to store/deploy
– Extremely cost-effective for a ready-made assembly

Cons:
– Not suitable for high power applications over 50 feet.

Best for: Field Day operations, portable HF setups, or short runs to roof-mounted antennas.

Expert Opinion: 30 feet of RG58 is a sweet spot—you get maximum flexibility with manageable signal loss, especially if you are focusing on the 40m and 80m bands.

STEREN RG8X Coaxial Cable 100 ft, CB Coax Cable with PL259 UHF Connectors, Male to Male Low Loss 50 Ohm for HAM Radio, LMR400, Antenna Analyzer

This STEREN RG8X cable represents a significant upgrade over standard RG58, particularly for longer feed lines or higher power operation. At 100 feet, using RG8X (often called “Mini-8”) ensures substantially lower attenuation than an equivalent length of RG58. This cable is built with durable, nickel-plated PL259 connectors and a construction designed to withstand outdoor installation, making it a robust choice for permanent HF antenna systems.

Key features that stand out:
– Cable Type: RG8X (Superior to RG58) for better performance
– Length: Long 100-foot run suitable for large properties
– Application: Ideal for high-powered applications and HF antennas
– Connectors: Durable, fully molded, nickel-plated PL259

Pros:
– Significantly lower attenuation than RG58 over long distances
– Built tough for indoor and outdoor installations
– Excellent choice for permanent HF base station setups

Cons:
– Thicker and slightly less flexible than RG58, making tight corners difficult.

Best for: Base station HF antenna runs exceeding 50 feet, where minimizing signal loss is crucial.

Expert Opinion: The step up to RG8X for a 100-foot run is necessary for maximizing efficiency on HF, especially above 20 meters. This cable is a solid, mid-range performer that bridges the gap between basic RG58 and premium LMR400.

RFAdapter RG8x Coaxial Cable, CB Coax Cable, 50ft UHF PL259 Male to Male Low Loss CB Antenna Cables, 50 Ohm for HAM Radio, Antenna Analyzer

The RFAdapter RG8X cable provides the benefits of the Mini-8 construction (lower loss) in a manageable 50-foot length. A notable feature is its use of a 17AWG thicker pure copper inner conductor, which dramatically improves performance over the thinner conductors often found in RG58. Combined with double shielding, this ensures excellent signal transfer and minimizes interference for serious amateur radio use.

Key features that stand out:
– Conductor: 17AWG thicker pure copper inner conductor
– Shielding: Double shielding for superior signal protection
– Cable Type: Low Loss RG8X (recommended over RG58)
– Connectors: Gold-plated center pins on nickel-plated brass PL259s

Pros:
– Superior signal transfer capability due to thicker copper conductor
– Excellent combination of low loss and manageable flexibility
– High-quality, molded, waterproof connectors suitable for outdoor runs

Cons:
– Priced higher than basic 50-foot RG58 options.

Best for: HF operators running QRP or moderate power where achieving the lowest possible attenuation over a 50-foot run is essential.

Expert Opinion: This 50ft RG8X cable offers the sweet spot for many amateur radio installations. It’s significantly better than RG58, highly durable, and still light enough for field deployment if needed.

YOTENKO CB Coax Cable,RG58 Coaxial Cable 30ft, PL259 UHF Male to Male Cable + SO239 UHF Female to SMA/UHF/BNC Adapter 4-Pack for CB Radio,Ham Radio,SWR Meter,HF Radio

For those needing a shorter, highly adaptable setup, this YOTENKO bundle combines a robust 30-foot RG58 cable with the invaluable four-pack of upgraded adapters. This is the perfect combination for a field operator or a technician who tests various equipment. The corrosion-resistant adapters mean you can easily interface the 30-foot cable with handhelds, different meters, or specialized receivers without carrying multiple different cables.

Key features that stand out:
– Adaptability: Includes 4 specialized connectors for universal use
– Connection Security: Professional crimping and 6 cm extended heat shrink
– Length: Manageable 30-foot RG58 length
– Materials: Low-loss cable made with solid copper and tinned copper braid

Pros:
– High versatility due to the included adapter pack
– 30 feet minimizes the loss factor of RG58 effectively
– Professional construction ensures reliable connector performance

Cons:
– The RG58 cable limits power handling compared to RG8X models.

Best for: Ham operators specializing in portable operations, field testing, or those with varied equipment needs requiring quick adaptation.

Expert Opinion: This package focuses heavily on convenience and versatility. If your primary use is short-term field activation or connecting diverse gear, the adapter set makes this a top choice.

YOTENKO 12 inch RG8x Coaxial Cable, 3 Pack 1ft Jumper CB Coax Cable PL259 Male UHF Connector Low Loss 50 Ohm for CB HAM Radio, HF VHF Radio, Antenna Analyzer, SWR Meter

When precision matters in the shack, especially between your transceiver and a tuner, low-loss RG8X jumpers are the way to go. This 3-pack of 12-inch (1-foot) RG8X jumpers offers minimal signal loss and excellent flexibility for tidying up complex desk setups. The inclusion of three cables ensures you have replacements or enough jumpers for your entire signal chain (radio, tuner, meter, amplifier).

Key features that stand out:
– Cable Type: RG8X Jumper (Superior low-loss for patching)
– Packaging: Convenient 3-pack for multiple connections
– Performance Rating: Low VSWR (≤ 1.12) and low loss at 50MHz
– Flexibility: Optimized for bending without sacrificing performance

Pros:
– Extremely low signal loss over this short distance
– Flexible construction aids neat equipment stacking
– Durable tinned copper conductor and enhanced shielding

Cons:
– Only useful for extremely close connections.

Best for: Internal shack wiring, connecting sensitive test equipment (VNAs), and high-power patching between components.

Expert Opinion: Using RG8X, even in short jumpers, is a better practice than RG58 for maximizing signal fidelity, particularly when patching high-power components or sensitive instruments like antenna analyzers.

YOTENKO RG8x Jumper Cable 2 ft 3-Pack, CB Coax Cable UHF PL259 Male to Male Low Loss 50 Ohm for CB HAM Radio, HF VHF Radio, Antenna Analyzer, SWR Meter

Offering a slight extension from the previous item, this 2-foot RG8X jumper 3-pack provides a little extra wiggle room for equipment spacing in the shack. These cables maintain the high standards of RG8X, featuring a low-loss, flexible design and YOTENKO’s extended heat shrink protection. They ensure that even the shortest, most critical connections in your HF setup transfer power efficiently with minimal attenuation.

Key features that stand out:
– Length: 2-foot length for slightly separated shack components
– Cable Construction: Tinned copper center conductor and foam polyethylene insulation
– Quantity: Useful 3-pack bundle
– Reliability: Extended 6cm heat shrink tubing for connector sealing

Pros:
– High-quality RG8X construction minimizes patch losses
– Provides flexibility for mounting gear around corners or in tight spaces
– Suitable for applications up to 300 MHz

Cons:
– Longer jumpers may introduce unnecessary slack if space is tight.

Best for: Connecting HF components that are spaced slightly apart (e.g., side-by-side on a desk) while maintaining low attenuation.

Expert Opinion: When selecting the best coax cable for hf radio patching, always opt for RG8X or better, even for short runs. Two feet offers great versatility without introducing significant loss, making this a reliable standard for most shacks.

Coax Cable Comparison Insights: RG58 vs. RG8X and Length

When shopping for the best coax cable for hf radio, the choice often boils down to a fundamental trade-off between cable type, length, and flexibility.

RG58 (Standard) vs. RG8X (Mini-8):
RG58 is thin, flexible, and affordable, making it ideal for temporary setups, portable radios, or short jumper cables. However, it suffers from significantly higher signal attenuation (loss) than RG8X, especially when operating on the higher HF bands (15m, 10m) or when running more than 50 feet. If you are operating a base station with a feed line longer than 50 feet, RG8X is the recommended minimum upgrade for better efficiency. RG8X achieves this lower loss due to a thicker inner conductor (like the 17AWG found in the RFAdapter product) and better dielectric materials.

The Importance of Length:
The products reviewed range from 1 foot to 100 feet. For short patch cables (1–3 feet), the choice between RG58 and RG8X won’t drastically affect performance, but RG8X will provide slightly cleaner, lower-loss connections for sensitive gear. For feed lines (30–100 feet), length is paramount. A 75-foot RG58 cable (like the YOTENKO RG58 75ft) will have notably more loss than a 50-foot RG8X cable (like the RFAdapter RG8x 50ft). Always choose the shortest viable run with the lowest-loss cable type your budget allows.

Connector Quality:
One specific feature that makes the YOTENKO cables stand out is the lengthened 6 cm heat shrink tubing. This might seem minor, but in real-world use, this extra protection at the strain point drastically improves the longevity and mechanical reliability of the PL259 connector, preventing detachment or internal shorts from excessive bending or pulling.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your HF Coax

Determining the absolute best coax cable for hf radio depends entirely on your specific application:

For Base Stations and Long Permanent Runs (50ft+):
If you need a reliable cable for a long run to a high-performance HF antenna, the STEREN RG8X Coaxial Cable 100 ft is the top pick. RG8X provides the necessary reduction in attenuation over 100 feet, ensuring that power makes it from your radio to the antenna efficiently.

For High-Performance Short/Mid Runs (Under 50ft):
If 50 feet is all you need, the RFAdapter RG8x Coaxial Cable, 50ft is unbeatable. Its pure copper 17AWG conductor and double shielding provide excellent signal quality that far surpasses standard RG58.

For Portable Use and Maximum Versatility:
The YOTENKO Ham Radio Coax Cable 50 Ohm, RG58 Coaxial Cable 49.2Ft, PL259 Male to Male Coax + UHF SO239 Female to SMA/UHF/BNC Adapter 4-Pack wins due to its comprehensive adapter kit. The ability to connect the primary coax run to virtually any device or test equipment makes this package incredibly valuable for field operators.

For Internal Shack Patching:
For connecting your transceiver to your tuner or SWR meter, the YOTENKO 12 inch RG8x Coaxial Cable, 3 Pack 1ft Jumper offers the best low-loss solution, ensuring minimal noise and maximum fidelity between your key components.

Common Questions About Best Coax Cable for HF Radio

What is the biggest difference between RG58 and RG8X for HF use?

The main difference is signal loss, or attenuation. RG58 is thinner and loses more power per foot, especially as the frequency increases. RG8X (Mini-8) has a thicker center conductor and better dielectric, meaning it has much lower loss, making it superior for any run over 30 feet, particularly when transmitting on bands like 20m, 15m, or 10m.

Does the center conductor material really matter for a coax cable?

Yes, absolutely. The center conductor carries the signal. Cables with a pure bare copper or tinned copper conductor (like the RFAdapter RG8x) offer lower resistance and better conductivity than copper-clad steel (CCS) conductors, resulting in less attenuation and better overall radio frequency (RF) performance, especially in high-power HF applications.

How much power (QRO) can I run through RG8X cable safely?

RG8X is generally rated for higher power handling than RG58. While specific ratings vary by manufacturer, RG8X is typically safe for handling up to 1,000 watts PEP on the lower HF bands (80m, 40m). Always check the manufacturer’s specification, especially if you plan to run continuous digital modes at high power, as cable heating can become a concern.

Why do some cables include adapters, and are they necessary?

Cables like the YOTENKO bundles include adapters (SMA, BNC, etc.) to increase versatility. Since the standard HF connector is the UHF PL259, you need adapters to connect to smaller devices like handheld radios, antenna analyzers, or various test meters. Having a good set of corrosion-resistant adapters on hand saves you from needing a dozen different cables.

Is a braided shield or foil shield better for preventing noise on HF bands?

For HF and general amateur radio use, dual-shielded cables (combining both braid and foil, as seen in many YOTENKO RG58 models) offer superior protection. The foil shield provides 100% coverage against external noise (RFI/EMI), while the braided shield handles the physical robustness and ensures better conductivity for the ground return, resulting in a cleaner signal path.

What is VSWR, and why is it important for a low-loss HF cable?

VSWR stands for Voltage Standing Wave Ratio. It measures how efficiently RF power is transmitted through the cable and antenna. A cable with a low inherent VSWR (like the YOTENKO RG8X jumpers rating ≤ 1.12) indicates that the cable assembly itself introduces minimal reflections or losses. While the antenna matching is the primary factor, starting with a low-loss, low-VSWR cable ensures you are maximizing the power reaching your antenna.