HRD25 vs Chameleon SS25: which telescopic whip is right for you?
Looking at the Chameleon Antenna CHA SS25 Stainless Steel Whip (also listed as CHA-SS25, Chameleon 25 ft whip)? Here’s how it compares with the HRD25, using each seller’s published specs.
Quick answer
Choose the Chameleon SS25 if you plan to run an amplifier over 100 W, or want Chameleon’s low-band coils.
Choose the HRD25 if you run a typical 100 W or QRP radio and want the same size whip for about $40 less.
We make the HRD25, so we’ve been careful to say where the Chameleon SS25 does better too.
Specs side by side
| Feature | HRD25 (ours) | Chameleon SS25 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $100.00 at DX Engineering when we checked |
| Extended length | 25 ft (7.6 m) | 25 ft |
| Collapsed length | About 27 in | About 27 in |
| Sections | 14 | 14 |
| Weight | 24 oz (1 lb 8 oz) | About 20.8 oz (1.3 lb) |
| Material | Stainless steel | Stainless steel |
| Power rating | Tested at 100 W SSB and digital. More customer feedback needed for real-world results above 100 W | 1,000 W PEP |
| Mounting thread | 3/8-24 | 3/8-24 |
| Availability | In stock | Varies by dealer |
| Where to buy | Ham Radio Dude on Etsy | DX Engineering, GigaParts, other dealers |
Where the Chameleon SS25 does better
- The seller rates it for 1,000 W PEP. The HRD25 is tested at 100 W; more customer feedback is needed for real-world results above that.
- About 3 oz lighter.
- Chameleon sells loading coils to take it down to 40 m through 160 m.
Where the HRD25 does better
- About $40 less ($59.99 vs $100).
- Same 25 ft length, 14 sections and 27 in collapsed size.
- Rated 5.0 out of 5 by Etsy buyers, with direct help from the maker.
What HRD25 owners say
Very high quality feeling. Just received and very happy. Thank you HRD!
Perfectly resonant on 20 meters fully extended
The Dude himself once again is able to source incredible and affordable products. Definitely keep an eye on this shop and it's other items avaliable.
See it in use
Common questions
Is the HRD25 a good alternative to the Chameleon SS25?
For many operators, yes. The HRD25 is a good pick if you run a typical 100 W or QRP radio and want the same size whip for about $40 less. The Chameleon SS25 is the better pick if you plan to run an amplifier over 100 W, or want Chameleon’s low-band coils.
What is the main difference between the HRD25 and the Chameleon SS25?
The Chameleon SS25: the seller rates it for 1,000 W PEP. The HRD25 is tested at 100 W; more customer feedback is needed for real-world results above that. The HRD25: about $40 less ($59.99 vs $100).
What bands does a 25 ft whip cover?
Used as a vertical with radials and a tuner or matching unit, a 25 ft whip covers roughly 30 m through 6 m. Lower bands need a loading coil.
Do I need radials with a telescopic whip?
Yes. A vertical whip needs a counterpoise: a few radial wires laid on the ground and connected to your mount. Without them the antenna won’t work well.
More comparisons
Where these specs come from
- DX Engineering: CHA-SS25 listing
- Our own specs come from our product listings.
We checked every listing on October 30, 2026. Prices and stock change often, so check the seller before you buy. Where a seller doesn’t publish a spec, we say “Not listed” instead of guessing. Spot a mistake? Message us on Etsy and we’ll fix it.
Chameleon SS25 are names and trademarks of their owners. Ham Radio Dude is not affiliated with or endorsed by them.