SimpleCW vs CQ Satellites
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
SimpleCW
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Read Morse and digital-mode signals from audio with SimpleCW (formerly HamChat). Tune one receiver, watch the waterfall, and follow decoded text in the transcript. CW includes automatic tone acquisition or manual tuning, Otsu and Bayesian decoders, a live keying trace, speed estimates, and input-level feedback. An optional on-device ML CW decoder is included with Premium Modes Unlock on iOS 18 or later and macOS 15 or later. Decoder results depend on signal quality and sending style; Otsu is the default. Receive CW, PSK31/63, MFSK, Olivia, and RTTY. Classical receive in every mode and CW transmit remain free. A three-minute trial lets you try other transmit modes. The existing one-time Premium Modes Unlock purchase adds unlimited digital-mode transmit and the optional ML CW decoder. Use the microphone or a compatible audio interface. On Mac, System Audio can receive audio from other software with the appropriate system permission. Audio processing stays on the device. Copy or share the resulting transcript.
CQ Satellites
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Track satellite passes with precision using **CQ Satellites**. Built for amateur radio operators, this app gives you fast, accurate predictions for upcoming passes so you never miss a contact. Whether you're chasing the ISS or working FM satellites, you’ll have the key data you need right when it matters. • Real-time AOS and LOS predictions • Clean, no-nonsense interface designed for quick access • Optimised for portable and field operation • Ideal for both experienced operators and those getting started with satellite work Stop guessing. Start planning your passes properly. CQ Satellites puts you in position before the signal arrives.
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is in-app purchases: CQ Satellites at none against SimpleCW's 1. On price, update cadence, ads and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
Both are free to download. SimpleCW sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. CQ Satellites asks for nothing beyond the download.
SimpleCW ships an update every 5 weeks, CQ Satellites every 2 months. Both last shipped on September 21, 2026.
| Parameter | SimpleCW | CQ Satellites |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Free |
| Update frequency | Every 5 weeks — better | Every 2 months |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | Yes | No — better |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, Mac — better | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 17.0 | 17.0 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 14 MB | 4 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | Jeroen Rombouts | Digimangos Ltd |
In-app purchases
SimpleCW
- Unlock TX Modes$2.99
CQ Satellites
No in-app purchases
Questions
Is SimpleCW free?
Is CQ Satellites free?
Do SimpleCW or CQ Satellites have ads?
Which is updated more often, SimpleCW or CQ Satellites?
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