Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female) vs Nagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)

The Mirkit 15.6-inch is the clear winner. It delivers meaningfully better performance on both bands where it matters most, with realistic gain of 2.9 dBi on UHF versus the NA-701's 0.8 dBi. The Mirkit achieves a proper 5/8 wave electrical length on 435 MHz, a sweet spot for handheld operation, while the NA-701 falls short at quarter wave. VHF performance favors the Mirkit too, though both antennas are electrically compromised on that band. The Nagoya's claimed 2.15 dBi gain is overstated and doesn't match its quarter-wave electrical length.

The single most important differentiator is electrical length on UHF. The Mirkit's 5/8 wave design versus the NA-701's quarter wave represents a significant real-world advantage where most amateur radio activity happens.

The Mirkit suits users who prioritize UHF performance and want better value. The NA-701 works for those needing the shortest possible antenna and accepting performance compromises.

Buy the Mirkit 15.6-inch. It costs only five dollars more while delivering measurably superior performance on the frequencies that matter most.