Top 5 Free Tools Every Ham Should Be Using
By David, M0TPT – ML&S
Over the years I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve been asked the same question: “David, what websites do you actually use for amateur radio?”
When I first got into the hobby, I was overwhelmed by the amount of information out there. Some tools are brilliant, some are pointless, and some are so complicated that they put more people off than they help. But in amongst all that noise, there are a handful of free resources that genuinely make a difference to how you operate.
So in this blog I want to share the five free tools I personally rely on, plus one paid option at the end that ties everything together and has become a big part of my own station.
Whether you’re brand new or an experienced operator, I think you’ll find something here that makes your radio life easier.
✅ 1. Digital Modes Made Simple (WSJT-X)
https://wsjt.sourceforge.io/wsjtx.html
If you’ve ever wanted to try FT8, FT4, WSPR or any of the modern digital modes, this is the software to start with. I run WSJT-X with my own radios daily, and it takes care of all the decoding, calling and reporting with hardly any effort.
It’s especially good for low-power stations and anyone who wants to test how well their antenna is performing. You can make contacts with just a few watts and a bit of wire, which is fantastic for newcomers and those in noisy environments.
✅ 2. See Where Your Signals Reach (PSK Reporter)
Once you’re transmitting on FT8 or WSPR, PSK Reporter becomes your best friend. Pop your callsign in and it shows a map of exactly who is hearing you.
I use it constantly for checking propagation, comparing antennas, and spotting which directions my signal favours. It’s also strangely addictive… you’ve been warned.
✅ 3. Listen Live from Anywhere (Hack Green WebSDR)
Before I understood how to set up audio properly, someone suggested using an online SDR to listen back to myself. It was a game-changer.
Hack Green is one of my favourites – no antennas or radios required, just tune in from your browser. You’ll hear real signals in real time and can even monitor your own audio (with a slight delay) to make sure everything sounds right on the other side.
It’s also very handy if your home QTH is noisy and you want to check a clearer receiver elsewhere.
✅ 4. Find and Programme Repeaters Easily (RepeaterBook)
If you’re using 2m or 70cm, this one is essential. RepeaterBook lists every nearby repeater, including frequencies, offsets, tones and coverage. Whether you’re programming a handheld, travelling, or trying to find activity in a new area, it makes the whole process painless.
They’ve recently added a new feature that can even help automate programming through your radio’s CAT connection. Well worth exploring.
✅ 5. Logs, Lookups and Station Info (QRZ)
QRZ isn’t completely free, but the basic functions are, and they’re incredibly useful—callsign lookups, logbook, bio pages, system status, resources and more.
Most hams use it daily without even thinking about it. I use it to keep all my contacts in one place, check signal reports, and pull up useful information about stations I’ve worked.
⭐ Bonus: A Paid Tool I Really Recommend (Station Master Pro)
https://getstationmaster.com/
Use code ML10 for 10% off – valid for 7 days
I wanted to include one paid option because it genuinely ties everything together. Station Master Pro brings logging, rig control, live cluster data, maps, cloud syncing and even social features into one platform. It’s incredibly easy to use and has become central to my shack.
If you’re looking for something modern, intuitive and well supported, this is the one I’d recommend.
✅ Final Thoughts
I hope this list helps you discover a few new tools that make your amateur radio life a bit easier. There’s a lot of software out there, but these are the ones I keep coming back to because they simply work.
If you’ve got your own favourite free tools, feel free to share them in the comments or tell us next time you’re in the shop. I’m always learning something new from other operators.
Thanks for reading – and 73
David M0TPT
Purchasing Manager, ML&S
