RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Comet SMA-24J (SMA-Female) vs Nagoya NA-771G (GMRS)
Our pick
Nagoya NA-771G (GMRS)$23.98
The Nagoya NA-771G is the clear winner for its intended purpose, but the choice depends on your primary band.
The single most important difference is electrical length optimization. The Nagoya is engineered specifically for GMRS at 465 MHz, where it achieves a realistic 3.1 dBi gain at 0.60 wavelengths. The Comet SMA-24J is a dual-band compromise that performs well on UHF at 435 MHz (2.9 dBi) but falls short on VHF at 146 MHz, where its 0.22 wavelength length leaves it significantly compromised. The Comet's claimed 3.5 dBi gain is overstated for actual performance.
Buy the Nagoya NA-771G if you operate primarily on GMRS or have a dedicated handheld for that band. Choose the Comet SMA-24J only if you genuinely need dual-band VHF/UHF capability and can accept mediocre VHF performance as the trade-off.
For most users, the Nagoya makes more practical sense. It's cheaper, shorter for easier carry, better optimized for modern GMRS handhelds, and delivers honest performance without marketing exaggeration. Its higher overall score reflects this focused engineering approach.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-focused GMRS operator
Costs less than the Comet and its 5/8 wave UHF element gives a stronger GMRS signal.
NA-771G2m repeater user working at range
Only the Comet covers VHF, so it is the only choice here for 2m repeater work.
SMA-24J70cm-first ham operator
Its 5/8 wave UHF element edges out the Comet on 70cm, and it is a shorter whip.
NA-771GCrossover ham and GMRS user
Its GMRS-tuned 5/8 wave element works for both ham UHF and GMRS on one antenna.
NA-771G
Reasons to choose Comet SMA-24J (SMA-Female)
- Also covers VHF (146 MHz)
Reasons to choose Nagoya NA-771G (GMRS)
- 31% cheaper ($23.98 vs $34.99)
- Also covers GMRS (465 MHz)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Comet SMA-24J (SMA-Female)
$34.99 on AmazonNagoya NA-771G (GMRS)PICK
$23.98 on AmazonKeep researching
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