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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

ABBREE AR-771C GMRS (SMA-Female) vs Nagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)

Our pick

ABBREE AR-771C GMRS (SMA-Female)$8.95

The AR-771C is the clear winner for GMRS operation. It's designed specifically for the 465 MHz band where it achieves a true 5/8 wavelength electrical length, delivering realistic 3.1 dBi gain. The Nagoya NA-701, by contrast, is a dual-band compromise antenna that performs poorly on both bands. At VHF it's electrically short and actually attenuates signal, while at UHF it barely reaches quarter-wave efficiency. Both antennas claim 2.15 dBi gain, but only the AR-771C supports this claim; the Nagoya's claimed gain is overstated for the frequencies it covers.

The single most important difference is electrical length optimization. The AR-771C matches one band well, while the NA-701 matches neither band effectively.

Buy the AR-771C if you operate primarily or exclusively on GMRS and want genuine gain at an excellent price point. Buy the Nagoya NA-701 only if you need occasional dual-band capability and accept compromised performance as the trade-off for versatility.

For dedicated GMRS use, the AR-771C is the straightforward choice. It costs half as much, delivers superior performance on your band, and scores 12 points higher for good reason.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • GMRS-only operator needing maximum range

    Its dedicated GMRS optimization and longer physical whip provide superior UHF performance.

    AR-771C
  • Operator prioritizing portability and compact size

    This antenna is significantly shorter, making it ideal for everyday carry and pocket use.

    NA-701
  • Budget-conscious buyer needing a basic upgrade

    At $8.95, it offers excellent value for improving GMRS performance over stock antennas.

    AR-771C
  • Dual-band ham radio user needing versatility

    It provides a useful balance of VHF and UHF operation in a compact package.

    NA-701
  • Ham operator upgrading from a stock rubber ducky

    The substantial increase in GMRS performance makes it the best first upgrade choice.

    AR-771C

Reasons to choose ABBREE AR-771C GMRS (SMA-Female)

  • 53% cheaper ($8.95 vs $18.98)
  • Also covers GMRS (465 MHz)

Reasons to choose Nagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)

  • Also covers VHF (146 MHz)
  • 7.3 in shorter to carry (203 mm vs 389 mm)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

ABBREE AR-771C GMRS (SMA-Female)SpecNagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)
$8.95
Price
$18.98
389 mm
Length
203 mm
2.15 dBi
Claimed gain
2.15 dBi
Supported by its length
Is that claim credible?
Supported by its length
SMA-Female
Connector
SMA-Female
whip
Type
whip
Yes
Flexible
Yes
90
Overall Score
78
+15% for winner
Orange
size
Handheld Antenna
Orange
color
Black
2
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

ABBREE AR-771C GMRS (SMA-Female)PICK

$8.95 on Amazon

Nagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)

$18.98 on Amazon

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