Best Ham Radio Power Supply
Many choose to build their ham radio power supplies to save money, but honestly, not everyone has the time. If you kinda fall into the latter category and want to save precious hours, then this list is for you.
We’ve researched and collected the best ham radio power supplies in the market today to help you make the choice.
Table of Contents
Top Ham Radio Power Supplies
1. TekPower TP30SWII 30 Amp DC 13.8 V Analog Switching Power Supply with Noise Offset
We have another winner from TekPower[1] in its TP30SWII analog switching power supply. It is not that far of a departure from the TP30SWI, at least not when it comes to its appearance and primary features.
It has an input power of 110V AC 60Hz and possesses the same dimensions while also being affordable. It has a 13.8 V DC power output.
You may be wondering why 13.8 V is the standard when you search for a radio power supply. That’s because 13.8 V is the average voltage that an electrical system of an automobile runs at.
So if you buy something like the TekPower TP30SWII 13.8 V, the 13.8 VDC matches nicely to today’s HF and VHF mobiles.
The design is solid and looks as if it is made for long-term use. The analog display is very legible as well.
Pros
- Sturdy build
- Impressive performance
- Runs quietly
- Affordable price
Cons
- You may need to replace the fan with a better one
The noise offset knob is present and supposedly handy, but honestly, you probably would not even have to touch it the whole time this power supply is in use.
One minor difference between the earlier TekPower entry and this is the choice of a cigar socket for the design. There are three power sockets including this one, and that is very convenient for a multitude of users.
Fortunately, these power sources do not get in the way of its excellent regulation, and the voltage knob is also easy to operate. Moreover, we have no complaints regarding noise.
Our search and review revealed a few things for improvement, though. For one, its voltmeter is not particular with the voltage being put out. Rather than having a 30 amps current capacity, it is also more accurate to peg the power current at 25.
The fan also stands out from the rest of the parts for looking subpar, so much so that one may choose to replace it. However, we don’t find that to be that big of a deal in the long run.
2. MegaWatt S-400-12x 36 Amps 430 Watts 9.5 to 15 Volts
Our list features another inexpensive option, but this time it is from a different brand. The MegaWatt S-400 is not far off in performance compared to more known brands even when it is considerably cheaper.
This option is a reliable power supply that is ideal for radio use as it promises no RF noise and it is highly regulated and filtered. It is adjustable to up to 15 volts and comes with a grounded power cord courtesy of the brand.
The MegaWatt S-400 also prides itself on being quiet equipment. The fans are often described to be nothing more than a whisper, and we can attest to that observation.
However, even though the noise won’t strike you as surprising, there is still a discernible whine from its fans that is absent from the power supply products manufactured by TekPower.
Pros
- Great for radio as it has no RF noise
- Excellent voltage stability
- Nice and quiet
- Affordable
Cons
- Small plastic blocks the terminals which can cause fitting struggles
Some of our experts found it better to position the MegaWatt farther from their hams to tune out the sound the fans emit.
Another critique that our search revealed is its small terminals. There is plastic that obstructs them, which can cause some struggle in the fitting.
There is also nothing to buffer the input terminals from direct contact, and this poses an electrical hazard.
MegaWatt makes up for these little annoyances in other things, however. The voltage stability in this power supply is impressive, and it also takes pride in a very clean output.
Safety is also part of its design: the MegaWatt S-400 has both over voltage shut down and auto short circuit protection.
3. Pyramid Bench Power Supply AC-to-DC Power Converter 50 Amp Power Supply with Adjustable Voltage Control
This power supply is of a regulated slash linear design. It boasts of a constant supply of DC voltage and a model that does not need any other external power source at 50 amps current.
This current capacity is pretty high, but your radio equipment will always just draw the current it needs. This best ham radio power supply is the Pyramid Bench.
This rig is also easy to operate and even the screw terminals pose no difficulties. Like others on the list, it is reasonably priced and we would recommend it. However, we do have some points that count against it.
Noise might get in the way of the microphone, and would affect comprehension.
Pros
- High current capacity of 50 amps
- Extremely easy to operate
- Feels very solid
- Intuitive design
Cons
- No cooling fan
Another is the absence of a cooling fan, which is often a given alongside a heatsink as extreme temperatures shorten the lifespan of a radio power supply, as with any other electronics.
You will have to keep it well-ventilated for your purchase not to depreciate faster than desired.
It is a pity though, as the power supply has a rugged build and the materials do not feel cheap. This power supply gives off a vibe of being ideal for long-term use.
It also does not take a genius to operate this supply, which is our way of giving praise to its intuitive design. Dimensions are fine, although we don’t suppose this power supply is not ideal for constant transport.
This won’t break the bank, but you can make the choice for better alternatives in its price range.
Learn more about the radios that will depend on our choice of power supplies. A dual-band ham model is great too, but consider the pros and cons properly, as well as its need for a power supply.
Our Top Pick - TekPower TP30SWII
A power supply is extremely important to have in any ham radio operator’s arsenal. For this bout, we’ve chosen the TekPower TP30SWII as our winner.
The best thing about this power supply is the incredibly quiet operation. Our experts stand by it and countless customers confirmed it as well. If noiseless use is your priority, this is definitely the power supply to get.
It certainly takes the pain from choosing your ham radio equipment, along with others like an antenna.
You’ll find that the Tekpower TP30SWII provides excellent regulation, convenient power sockets, intuitive operation, and reliable safety features.
Plus with a sturdy build at an affordable price, this power supply has it all. You might also want to check out our reviews of great ham radios such as this while you’re at it.
If you want a radio that doesn’t need to always be connected to power supplies, check out our review of the handheld ham devices.
William Johnson is the owner and founder of RatedRadarDetector.org. He writes about car accessories, with his passion stemming from a deep enthusiasm for all things automotive. His website, RRD, focuses on in-depth reviews of car accessories to help people find the best and latest products in the market.
