Comparison

SimpleCW vs CQ Satellites

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

SimpleCW

Features
Read full description

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.

About

CQ Satellites

Features
Read full description

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

SimpleCW4 screens
CQ Satellites2 screens

Verdict

The call

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

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. SimpleCW sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. CQ Satellites asks for nothing beyond the download.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

SimpleCW ships an update every 5 weeks, CQ Satellites every 2 months. Both last shipped on September 21, 2026.

Scorecard1 real difference · 5 level
SimpleCW versus CQ Satellites: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterSimpleCWCQ Satellites
PriceFreeFree
Update frequencyEvery 5 weeks — betterEvery 2 months
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesNo — better
DevicesiPhone, iPad, Mac — betteriPhone, iPad
Requires iOS17.017.0
Further details — not scored
Size14 MB4 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperJeroen RomboutsDigimangos Ltd

In-app purchases

1 purchases

SimpleCW

One-time1
  • Unlock TX Modes$2.99
None

CQ Satellites

No in-app purchases

Questions

Is SimpleCW free?
SimpleCW is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is CQ Satellites free?
CQ Satellites is free to download, with no in-app purchases.
Do SimpleCW or CQ Satellites have ads?
Neither SimpleCW nor CQ Satellites shows ads.
Which is updated more often, SimpleCW or CQ Satellites?
SimpleCW ships an update every 5 weeks, and CQ Satellites every 2 months. Most recently, SimpleCW was updated on September 21, 2026 and CQ Satellites on September 21, 2026.

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