Does it receive HF shortwave?

Not directly. The R820T tuner starts around 27 MHz, so HF below that needs an upconverter or a direct-sampling receiver.

Will it work for ADS-B tracking?

Yes. It decodes ADS-B at 1090 MHz with software such as dump1090 and PlanePlotter, though a better antenna improves range.

What antenna connector does it use?

It uses an MCX jack, so you need an MCX-to-SMA adapter to attach most external antennas.

Does it work on Mac and Linux?

Yes. It is supported on Windows, Mac and Linux through standard RTL-SDR drivers and software.

No. This model has no temperature-compensated oscillator, so expect some drift as it warms up.

The dongle and antenna are included; check the listing for the exact bundle contents.

Where is the NooElec NESDR Mini USB RTL-SDR Radio Kit cheapest?

At Amazon, for $44.95, 49% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the NooElec NESDR Mini USB RTL-SDR Radio Kit?

4 stores we checked sell it, including Amazon, eBay, Newegg.com, VXB.com Bearings.

NooElec NESDR Mini USB RTL-SDR Radio Kit

Best price now

$44.95at AmazonChecked 3 h ago

49% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 4 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when. Store links may earn us a commission. As an Amazon Associate, Deal.ai earns from qualifying purchases.

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What reviewers say

Owners treat the NESDR Mini as a reliable, inexpensive entry into SDR. They praise its software compatibility and simple setup, and note that the lack of a TCXO and the MCX connector are the main compromises.

What people mention

Frequency stabilityCriticisedOwners report the tuner drifts as it warms up because there is no TCXO.
Software supportPraisedUsers say it works quickly with SDR#, HDSDR and PlanePlotter on all three desktop systems.
ConnectorMixedThe MCX input is compact but forces buyers to get adapters for standard SMA antennas.
AntennaCriticisedReviewers say the included antenna limits range, especially for ADS-B.
ValuePraisedBuyers call it a cheap, dependable first SDR.

About the NooElec NESDR Mini USB RTL-SDR Radio Kit

The NooElec NESDR Mini is a compact software defined radio (SDR) receiver that connects over USB. It pairs an RTL2832U demodulator with an R820T tuner and has an MCX antenna input for simple antenna hookup.

It covers roughly 27 MHz to 1700 MHz. It can be used for learning SDR, ADS-B aircraft tracking, airband and amateur radio monitoring, trunking, satellite signal experiments and weather data capture.

It works on Windows, Mac and Linux. It is compatible with MATLAB, Simulink, SDR#, HDSDR, PlanePlotter and other popular SDR software.

Demodulator

RTL2832U

Tuner

R820T

Frequency range

Roughly 27 MHz to 1700 MHz

Antenna input

MCX

Interface

USB

Compatibility