Amateur Radio Frequency Guide

Complete guide to amateur radio bands, frequencies, and what you can do on each.

2 Meter Band (144-148 MHz)

The most popular ham band. VHF. Repeaters everywhere. Range: 20-60 miles via repeater. Technician license required. This is where 90% of new hams start.

70 Centimeter Band (420-450 MHz)

UHF. Better building penetration than 2m. Shorter range. Many dual-band radios cover both 2m and 70cm. Popular in urban areas where buildings block VHF.

HF Bands (3-30 MHz)

Shortwave. Talk worldwide with 100 watts and a wire antenna. Signal bounces off ionosphere. General or Extra license required. The magic of radio: talk to Japan from your backyard.

6 Meter Band (50-54 MHz)

The Magic Band. VHF with occasional long-distance propagation. When conditions are right, signals travel 1,000+ miles. Unpredictable and exciting.

Digital Modes

DMR (digital voice via repeaters), FT8 (weak signal, 1,000+ mile contacts with 5 watts), Winlink (email over radio), APRS (GPS tracking/messaging). Ham radio is not just voice anymore.