RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Comet SMA-24 (SMA-Male) vs Nagoya NA-771 (SMA-Male)
Our pick
Comet SMA-24 (SMA-Male)$31.99
The Nagoya NA-771 is the clear winner despite its lower price. The single most important differentiator is VHF performance: the Comet SMA-24 achieves a realistic quarter-wave match at 146 MHz with minimal loss, while the NA-771 is electrically short and compromised at -1.0 dBi. However, the NA-771's significantly higher overall score reflects that most amateur radio use skews toward UHF, where both antennas deliver identical 2.9 dBi performance. The NA-771 also claims 3 dBi gain, which aligns with its design, whereas the Comet's 3.5 dBi claim is optimistic. At 11 dollars cheaper, the NA-771 offers better value for UHF-dominant operators. Buy the Comet SMA-24 if you prioritize dual-band balance and spend meaningful time on 2-meter FM. Buy the Nagoya NA-771 if you primarily work 70 cm or want a solid general-purpose handheld antenna without overpaying. For most users, the NA-771 is the safer choice.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Repeater user working VHF at the edge of range
The Comet's quarter-wave VHF element gives it a real electrical advantage on 2m repeaters.
SMA-24Everyday carry where a shorter whip matters
The NA-771 is shorter at 396mm, so it stays less awkward on a daily-carry radio.
NA-771Yaesu or TYT owner upgrading from a stock duck
The NA-771 lists Yaesu, TYT, and Wouxun among its target radios and has the higher overall score.
NA-771Yaesu or Kenwood owner wanting a durable whip
The SMA-24 is recommended for operators who want a long-lasting quality whip on Yaesu and Kenwood radios.
SMA-2470cm-focused operator where both perform alike
Both whips reach about 2.9dBi on 70cm, so the shorter NA-771 is the practical choice.
NA-771Hiker packing a radio for POTA activations
The NA-771 is the shorter whip at 396mm and weighs 53g, easier to keep out of the way.
NA-771
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Comet SMA-24 (SMA-Male)
$31.99 on AmazonNagoya NA-771 (SMA-Male)PICK
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