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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Kenwood TS-890S vs Xiegu G90

Our pick

Xiegu G90$466.00

The Kenwood TS-890S is the clear winner for stationary HF operation. It dominates in nearly every performance metric: five times the transmit power, support for 6m band and digital modes like PSK and FSK, and a higher overall score reflecting superior build quality and features. The single most important differentiator is power output. At 100W versus 20W, the TS-890S will reach distant stations far more reliably, especially during poor propagation conditions.

The TS-890S suits operators who prioritize performance and operate from a fixed location where weight and size don't matter. The G90 is ideal for portable and field operators who value lightweight construction and appreciate a capable all-mode transceiver that fits in a backpack.

Choose the TS-890S if you're building a serious home station and want to maximize your HF capabilities. Choose the G90 if you operate portable, travel frequently, or want a compact rig that delivers respectable performance without the bulk. The G90 punches above its weight for its category, but the TS-890S is simply the more capable radio.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • DX chaser needing high power for crowded bands

    Its 100W output and superior memory make it ideal for difficult DX contacts.

    TS-890S
  • POTA/SOTA field operator on a tight budget

    The G90's portability, lower cost, and built-in tuner make it perfect for the field.

    G90
  • Advanced CW operator needing reliable performance

    The TS-890S offers more robust features and higher power, which is beneficial for dedicated CW work.

    TS-890S
  • Beginner field station owner prioritizing portability

    Its much lower weight and high portability score make it easier to transport to remote locations.

    G90
  • Operator needing maximum channel memory capacity

    The 120 channels of the Kenwood provide superior frequency management for heavy use.

    TS-890S

Reasons to choose Kenwood TS-890S

  • 400% more TX power (100W vs 20W)
  • Better receiver (100 vs 70 receiver score)

Reasons to choose Xiegu G90

  • 90% cheaper ($466.00 vs $4699.95)
  • 14170g lighter (1630g vs 15800g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Kenwood TS-890SSpecXiegu G90
$4699.95
Price
$466.00
70
Overall Score
81
+16% for winner
100.00W
TX Power (High)
20.00W
5.0× difference
100
Receiver Score
70
+43% for winner
superhet
Receiver Architecture
direct-sampling
SSB, CW, AM, FM, FSK, PSK
Modes
SSB, CW, AM, FM
HF, 6m
Bands
HF
Yes
Built-in Antenna Tuner
Yes
Yes
Spectrum Waterfall
Yes
120
Memory Channels
15800g
Weight
1630g
10.0× difference
TFT Color
Display
Color LCD
Not required (Part 97 amateur)
FCC Authorization
Not required (Part 97 amateur)
1
unitCount
1

Made your choice?

Kenwood TS-890S

$4699.95 on Amazon

Xiegu G90PICK

$466.00 on Amazon

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