New Icom ID-50A VHF/UHF D-Star Hand Held Transceiver

Recently, I had the chance to view (videos) the new Icom ID-50A. From what I saw, it looks like a solid option for amateur radio operators seeking an efficient and effective handheld transceiver. With its impressive features and specs, this portable radio surely has potential. All that remains is whether or not it's worth investing in one. Regardless of my decision, feel free to view the video on my website to glean an understanding of how this HT works.

New Icom ID-50A Features

Some of the standout features of the Icom ID-50A include its D-STAR capabilities, which allow for digital communication with other D-STAR users. It also has a large, easy-to-read display, and a built-in GPS for location tracking and APRS functionality.
 
Additionally, the ID-50A has 5 watts of power output, which should be plenty for most portable operations. The battery life seems decent, with up to 13 hours of operation on a single charge. USB-C charging port.
 
One potential downside to the ID-50A is its price point, which may be a bit steep for some hams. However, if you're in the market for a feature-rich handheld transceiver and are willing to pay a premium for quality, the ID-50A could be a good option to consider.
 
Ultimately, whether or not the Icom ID-50A is worth the investment will depend on your specific needs and preferences as a ham radio operator. Be sure to do your research and assess your priorities before making a decision.
 
YouTube player
 

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What's your take on this radio? Please comment below.

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Icom ID-50A

K0PIR

I'm an Amateur Radio enthusiast. I love the hobby and experimenting with radios, antennas and software. On my YouTube channel I upload videos on the Icom 7300 and Icom 7610 along with Ham radio software programs. I hope to inspire people to try new things in Amateur Radio.

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Al Bisasky
1 year ago

What’s MY take? It’s only a photo of a yet non existent, non FCC type accepted watered down version of the IC-52. Perhaps you should have just posted the photo with a “Look, kids, a new radio.” And let it go at that. Making unsubstantiated claims like “13 hours of battery life” is just conjecture.

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K3ZE
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Al Bisasky
1 year ago
Reply to  K0PIR

The worst thing that Icom could do is make the new IC-50 “pricey”. They should make it in the $300 – 350 range to give new Amateurs, especially Technicians, an introductory HT that will also do D-STAR and other gee-wheez abilities like FM satellites, link to Android, etc. An HT that you can only talk on is boring. Later, they could always sell it to offset the cost of the upgrade to an IC-52 or a Kenwood TH-D75A.

Just my opinion.
73 Al K3ZE

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K3ZE
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Justin Harding
10 months ago

The 50 does not include a color display. That is the 52.

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KC4QFE
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Justin Harding
10 months ago

I and others are very glad they left the color screen off of this one. I hate the color screens on radios.

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KC4QFE
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