Icom
ICOM IC-9700 VHF/UHF/1.2 GHz Transceiver
Best tri-band transceiver for serious amateur radio enthusiasts.
Experience advanced radio operations with the ICOM IC-9700, a high-performance transceiver covering VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz bands. This tri-band unit offers exceptional versatility for a wide range of amateur radio activities. Renowned for its quality and reliability, it's a favorite among users. An optional Protection Plan is available for extended coverage against mechanical and electrical failures, providing extra peace of mind for your investment.
$2099.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
13
/ 314
#13 in Two-Way Radios
Price vs Category Average
+322%
Above average
Device Type
Transceiver
/ Transceiver
Who it's for
- Operators seeking superior signal clarity and noise reduction
- Microwave enthusiasts focused on weak-signal work and contesting
- Visual learners needing quick band condition monitoring
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious hobbyists preferring standard dual-band equipment
- Satellite operators requiring higher power for long-distance communication
- Purists demanding consistent architectural performance across all bands
Performance breakdown
Band Versatility
Seamless tri-band coverage handles VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz with ease.
Signal Clarity
Direct sampling architecture delivers exceptionally clean and stable signal reception.
Interface Intuition
The responsive touchscreen makes navigating complex radio settings surprisingly straightforward.
Build Integrity
Robust construction ensures long-term reliability for demanding amateur radio operations.
Digital Mode Capability
Advanced processing power excels at handling modern digital communication protocols.
Spectrum Visualization
Real-time scope provides a clear, high-resolution view of band activity.
Key Specs
Device Type
Transceiver
Product Type
VHF/UHF/1.2 GHz Transceiver
Frequency Bands Supported
VHF, UHF, Tri Band
Model Number
IC-9700
Headset Jack
False
Weather Alert
False
Built-in Flashlight
False
Features
- Tri-band operation: VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz
- Versatile for diverse amateur radio uses
- Highly rated user performance and reliability
- Dedicated transceiver unit design
- Supports advanced amateur radio applications
What customers say
The Icom IC-9700 is highly praised as a leading tri-bander for VHF, UHF, and 1.2 GHz operations. Users consistently highlight its exceptional receiver performance, especially on the challenging 1.2 GHz band, thanks to its direct sampling SDR. The intuitive, large color touchscreen simplifies complex tasks like satellite tracking and memory management. Build quality is regarded as robust and professional. Integrated satellite features, including full duplex and Doppler correction, are considered best in class. While the performance justifies the investment for serious operators, the high price point positions this radio as a significant purchase for dedicated enthusiasts demanding top tier results.
Know before you buy
The IC-9700 is a tri-band transceiver that provides full coverage for the 144 MHz (VHF), 430/440 MHz (UHF), and 1200 MHz (1.2 GHz) amateur radio bands.
No, the IC-9700 does not feature a dedicated headset jack. You will need to use the appropriate external audio interface or microphone port connections to manage your audio output.
Yes, the unit is highly regarded for satellite operations. Its design supports advanced amateur radio applications, including full-duplex operation and frequency tracking required for satellite work.
No, the IC-9700 is designed as a high-performance amateur radio transceiver and does not include a built-in weather alert feature.
The IC-9700 is designed as a dedicated base station transceiver. Its form factor and power requirements are optimized for a fixed shack environment rather than mobile installation.
The optional Protection Plan provides extended coverage against mechanical and electrical failures. It is a recommended add-on if you want to ensure long-term reliability for your investment beyond the standard manufacturer warranty.
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$2100