RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female) vs Nagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)
Our pick
Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female)$13.99
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.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Everyday carry and pocket use
The shorter 203mm build suits pocket carry and daily use better than the longer 396mm whip.
NA-701Hiker packing light for POTA or trail use
Its shorter build takes up less room in a pack, accepting some loss of signal for the savings in space.
NA-701Buyer with a tight budget
It costs less than the Nagoya and also performs better on both VHF and UHF, so it is the stronger value.
Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female)Operator focused on 70cm first
Its 5/8 wave UHF element gives it a clear advantage over the shorter whip on the 70cm band.
Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female)First upgrade from a stock rubber duck
It outperforms the shorter whip on both bands, so it offers the more noticeable step up from a stock duck.
Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female)
Reasons to choose Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female)
- 26% cheaper ($13.99 vs $18.98)
- Stronger on VHF (-1.0 dBi vs -3.6 dBi at 146 MHz)
- Stronger on UHF (2.9 dBi vs 0.8 dBi at 435 MHz)
Reasons to choose Nagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)
- 7.6 in shorter to carry (203 mm vs 396 mm)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Mirkit 15.6-inch Dual-Band Whip (SMA-Female)PICK
$13.99 on AmazonNagoya NA-701 (SMA-Female)
$18.98 on AmazonMore head-to-heads