Buying guides · updated 2026-09-17
Morse code gear that's actually worth buying
You can learn Morse with nothing but this website and a spacebar. But the moment you want to send, you need a key — and the gear world is full of $300 answers to $30 questions. These guides cut it down to the few pieces that earn their place on a desk.
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Best straight keys
From a $25 first key to a buy-it-once classic.
Best first key Xiegu VK-5 Mini Straight Key · ≈ $70
Read the guide →Best paddles for beginners
Iambic paddles that won't fight your fist.
Best first paddle Putikeeg Mini Dual Paddle (magnetic) · ≈ $46
Read the guide →QRP CW transceivers
Real radios from about $90, kits to dream rigs.
Our best-value pick QRP Labs QMX (kit or assembled) · ≈ $102 kit / $152 assembled
Read the guide →Where to start (the honest version)
- Still learning to receive? Buy nothing. Use the free Koch trainer and flashcards until you can copy at 10+ WPM. Gear can't do that part for you.
- Ready to send? Get one cheap key — the Xiegu VK-5 Mini Straight Key (≈ $70) or the Putikeeg Mini Dual Paddle (magnetic) (≈ $46) — and our random CW generator for material. Straight key teaches timing; paddle is what you'll likely use long-term. Either is a fine first choice.
- Licensed and want on the air? The QRP Labs QMX (kit or assembled) is our best-value pick: a multiband CW transceiver for about 02 as a kit. See the operating reference for band plans and your first QSO script.
Three books worth the shelf space
- The Art and Skill of Radio-Telegraphy (Bill Pierpont, N0HFF) — The classic deep text on learning and mastering CW. Also free as PDF — link to print for people who want paper.
- ARRL's Morse Code Operating for Amateur Radio — Practical on-air operating: QSO structure, contesting, DXing with CW.
- Zen and the Art of Radiotelegraphy (Carlo Consoli, IK0YGJ) — The head-copy and mindset book — what to do after 15 WPM when progress stalls.