ZYU / Xiegu VG4 Vertical Antenna
This review covers the real-world, on-air performance of the ZYU (Xiegu) VG4 vertical antenna, based on actual operating time, PSKReporter data, and live voice contacts — not marketing claims or antenna modeling.
The antenna was purchased independently and tested in my own station under normal operating conditions.
Test Setup
- Mounting: Rohn 25G tower
- Height: ~42 feet
- Operating Modes: FT8 and SSB
- Bands Tested: 10, 12, 15, 17, 20, and 40 meters
- Verification Tools: PSKReporter + on-air signal reports
At this height, the VG4 immediately showed strong performance, especially for a compact vertical antenna.
FT8 Performance (PSKReporter Results)
One of the first things I checked was FT8 performance using PSKReporter. The one-hour reception snapshot showed excellent results.
What stood out most was how omnidirectional the antenna behaved. Stations were receiving my signal from all directions, and reception coverage was consistent around the map.
Simply put: this antenna hears well, and it gets out well.
On-Air Voice Performance
To back up the digital results, I ran SSB on 20 meters during an active period. Multiple stations reported strong signal levels, clean audio, and solid readability.
Contacts included stations reporting 59 to 59+ signal reports, including longer-distance QSOs that I do not consistently work with some other antennas.
Several operators commented specifically on audio quality and signal strength, which lines up with what the FT8 data was already showing.
Pros
- Excellent performance for the price (under $300)
- Strong real-world results on FT8 and SSB
- Wide multiband coverage (10–40m without a tuner)
- Most bands under 2:1 SWR, many closer to 1.5:1
- Solid construction with thick-wall tubing
- Compact and lightweight for its size
- Easy to assemble mechanically
Cons
- Very limited assembly documentation
- No clear starting measurements provided
- Radials can be difficult to start threading
- 40 meters is fairly tight-banded
None of these issues were deal-breakers, but the documentation in particular could be improved significantly.
Tuner Performance
With an antenna tuner, the VG4 will load on 80 and even 160 meters. While it’s not designed as a primary antenna for those bands, the fact that it tunes at all is impressive.
Final Verdict
The proof really is in the pudding. Between PSKReporter data, live signal reports, and everyday operating, the VG4 has proven itself to be a legitimate performer.
If you’re looking for a compact vertical with real DX capability, strong multiband coverage, and solid construction at a reasonable price, the ZYU / Xiegu VG4 is absolutely worth serious consideration.
This antenna has earned a permanent place in my lineup.
Video review available on my YouTube channel: The ElectronMan
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