Menu

Xiegu G90 An Affordable, Feature-Rich HF SDR Transceiver

The Xiegu G90 is a compact, portable HF amateur radio transceiver offering up to 20 watts output on the HF bands and built around a 24-bit software-defined radio (SDR) architecture. For operators looking for a flexible, budget-friendly rig that delivers both transmit and receive capability in a relatively small footprint, the G90 presents a compelling option.

Xiegu G90 HF Transceiver HF Radio 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR

Key Features & Specifications

  • Frequency coverage

    • Receive: approx. 0.5 MHz to 30 MHz (general-coverage HF). 

    • Transmit: covers the amateur HF bands from 1.8 MHz through 30 MHz (10 m-160 m).

  • Power output

    • Up to 20 W (SSB/CW/AM) in normal mode.

    • 5 W AM carrier.

  • Modes

    • SSB (USB/LSB), CW (and CWR), AM supported.

    • FM may be supported with optional accessory/firmware (less common) 

  • Automatic antenna tuner (ATU) built in

    • The G90 includes a wide–range internal ATU capable of matching many antennas in the field (tuning range ~5:1).

  • SDR architecture & display

    • 24-bit SDR core, 48 kHz sampling (in receive). xiegu.eu+1

    • Colour TFT display (1.8″) with spectrum and waterfall display functionality.

  • Portability & build

    • Dimensions ~120 × 45 × 210 mm (excluding protrusions) and weight ~1.63 kg. 

    • Operating voltage: ~10.5–16.5 V DC typical.

  • Receiver performance

    • Sensitivity: SSB/CW: better than 0.25 µV in 2-30 MHz region. 

    • Image rejection: ~70 dB.

  • Useful extras

    • Detachable control head (remote mounting possible) 

    • Memory channels, built-in SWR bridge, spectrum/ waterfall display, CW decoder, digital noise blanker, etc.

Xiegu G90 HF Transceiver HF Radio 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR

Why It Stands Out

  • Value: For the performance you get (20 W output + internal ATU + SDR features) the G90 offers strong value compared to many rigs with similar features at much higher cost.

  • Portability and field use: Its moderate size/weight and built-in features (ATU) make it especially suitable for portable operations (Parks On The Air, Summits On The Air, mobile setups) where space, weight and simplicity matter.

  • Flexibility: General coverage receive means it’s not strictly limited to ham bands — you can explore shortwave broadcasts, general-coverage listening, etc. (with caveats).

  • Built-in ATU: Many transceivers in this class don’t include a tuner; the built-in ATU removes one external component and simplifies set-up, especially in portable or mobile scenarios.

  • SDR feature set: The spectrum/waterfall display gives situational awareness of band activity (which is a plus at this price point).

  • Detachable head: The ability to mount the control head separately gives greater flexibility in installation (e.g., in a mobile vehicle or remote location).

Xiegu G90 HF Transceiver HF Radio 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR

Limitations & Things to Consider

  • 20 W output is QRP/low-power in many contexts. While plenty for many contacts (especially with good antenna/conditions), it is not equivalent to a 100 W station. Reviewers point this out.

  • The display is relatively small (1.8″) and some users comment on this as a limitation in a home-station environment.

  • Front-end overload/strong signal handling: Some users find the G90’s receiver can struggle when extremely strong signals are present (especially in field/mobile environments) — being aware of antenna placement, filtering etc helps.

  • Digital modes setup: While the rig supports digital modes (FT8, etc) in external PC set-ups, the integration may not be as seamless as some higher-end rigs. For example, setup may require external audio interface or additional configuration.

  • Operating at 20 W for extended periods may cause heat build-up in the compact chassis — ventilation and break-periods help.

  • Antenna tuner limitation: Built-in ATU is good, but it doesn’t magically turn a very poor antenna into an efficient one. Users emphasise that a decent antenna and good site still matter.

Xiegu G90 HF Transceiver HF Radio 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR

Who Is It For?

  • Amateur radio operators looking for a portable/home-station rig with more power than a typical 5 W QRP station, but less cost and complexity than a full 100 W station.

  • Field operators (POTA, SOTA, mobile) where weight, simplicity and built-in ATU matter.

  • Operators on a budget who want good performance (20 W + SDR features) without spending thousands.

  • Those who want a rig that can serve both as a portable/back-up station and a secondary home rig.

  • Hobbyists interested in both ham radio and general coverage listening, who appreciate the flexible receive coverage.

How It Could Fit in Your Setup

  • For portable use: Pair the G90 with a good multi-band portable antenna (e.g., end-fed half-wave, portable dipole, or wire plus good ground) and a 12 V battery/pack. The built-in ATU helps, but the antenna still matters.

  • For home shack use: While the 20 W may limit some DX results compared to higher power stations, with a good antenna and propagation, the G90 can pull its weight. Consider adding an external linear amplifier later if you anticipate needing more power.

  • For mobile/vehicle installation: The detachable head and moderate size make the G90 well-suited. Ensure good ventilation, secure mounting, and proper DC supply (10.5–16.5 V good; current draw at TX ~6 A max).

  • For digital modes: Be sure to get your USB-to-CAT/Audio interface sorted, and set up proper grounding and filtering to avoid noise. Some users report the setup is less “plug-and-play” than higher end rigs.

  • For upgrades: If you later want more than 20 W, the rig supports external amplifiers (note: you’ll need an amp interface). It can act as a solid “driver” rig.

  • For maintenance and firmware: Keep an eye on firmware updates and community forums for enhancements (filter upgrades, features) and ensure your power supply is clean and stable to avoid performance issues.

 

Xiegu G90 HF Transceiver HF Radio 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR

Verdict & Recommendation

In summary: The Xiegu G90 punches above its weight in many respects. While it won’t match the absolute top echelon of higher-powered amateur transceivers from the big brands, it delivers impressive capability for the price, especially for portable and field use. With good antenna setup and realistic expectations (20 W output), it’s a very solid choice.

Xiegu G90 HF Transceiver HF Radio 20W SSB/CW/AM/FM SDR

If you are seeking a feature-rich, budget-friendly HF transceiver for portable or home use, the Xiegu G90 offers strong value. Its combination of 20 W output, built-in automatic antenna tuner, SDR architecture, spectrum/waterfall display and decent build quality make it a compelling option for operators who want flexibility without the cost of a 100 W station. While it has some limitations (screen size, strong-signal handling, 20 W power), for its price and portability it delivers impressive performance. Proper antenna setup and realistic expectations will let you get the most from this rig.

Related Posts