RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Icom IC-7100 vs Xiegu G106
Our pick
Xiegu G106$249.00
The Xiegu G106 is the clear winner for most amateur operators. The single most important differentiator is price paired with owner satisfaction: the G106 costs roughly one-quarter as much as the IC-7100, yet owners report 4.4 out of 5 stars across 130 reviews compared to the IC-7100's 3.5 stars from just 20 reviews. The IC-7100 offers 100 watts, multiband capability across HF through UHF, and six modes including digital voice, making it the choice for operators who need full-featured mobile or base station operation and higher power. The G106 should appeal to QRP enthusiasts, portable operators, or budget-conscious hams entering HF who value lightweight performance and proven owner satisfaction. For most buyers, the G106's exceptional value and strong owner feedback make it the safer recommendation unless you specifically require the IC-7100's additional bands, power, or mode capabilities.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first HF buyer
It costs far less than the Icom while still covering HF SSB, CW, and AM for a first station.
G106Ultralight backpacking QRP operator
At 720 grams and 5 watts, it is far lighter and simpler for carrying into the field.
G106CW operator who prefers simple controls
Its minimalist physical controls suit straightforward CW operating without the extra features the Icom offers.
G106Mobile installer needing HF plus VHF and UHF
It covers HF, 6m, VHF, and UHF in one radio with 100 watts for vehicle installs.
IC-7100D-STAR operator wanting HF capability
It adds D-STAR digital voice alongside HF modes, which the Xiegu does not offer.
IC-7100Traveler preprogramming regional repeater lists
Its 495 memory channels and VHF and UHF coverage handle large repeater lists across regions.
IC-7100
Reasons to choose Icom IC-7100
- 1900% more TX power (100W vs 5W)
- Has D-STAR
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Xiegu G106
- 76% cheaper ($249.00 vs $1049.95)
- 1580g lighter (720g vs 2300g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Icom IC-7100
$1049.95 on AmazonXiegu G106PICK
$249.00 on AmazonKeep researching
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