Comet CA-2X4SRNMO Dual-Band Mobile vs Comet SS-460SBNMO Dual-Band Mobile

The CA-2X4SR is the clear winner for dual-band mobile work, despite costing $35 more.

The decisive factor is VHF performance. The CA-2X4SR's half-wave design at 146 MHz delivers 3.5 dBi, a genuine advantage for 2-meter operations. The SS-460SB's quarter-wave VHF element produces only 1.6 dBi, which is noticeably compromised. On UHF, both antennas perform similarly with the CA-2X4SR at 5.4 dBi versus the SS-460SB at 4.9 dBi, but the VHF gap is the larger practical difference for most operators.

The SS-460SB's main appeal is its compact 470mm length and lower price point. Its shorter footprint suits space-constrained installations like small vehicles or boats. However, the 0.23 wavelength VHF element is electrically short and will underperform without exceptionally good ground plane conditions.

Buy the CA-2X4SR if you regularly work 2-meter repeaters or nets; the superior VHF gain justifies the investment. Buy the SS-460SB only if mounting space is critical and you can accept compromised 2-meter performance.

For most mobile operators balancing performance and cost, the CA-2X4SR remains the better choice.