RTL-SDR V4 Receiver USB-C (Female)

RTL-SDR BLOG V4 Receiver USB-C (Female)

This radio receiver is the RTL-SDR Blog V4 version, updated with a USB-C female connector. It is based on the R828D tuner. The V4 model includes several features such as a triple input filter design, notch filters, tighter component tolerances, a 1 PPM temperature-compensated oscillator (TCXO), SMA female connector, aluminum enclosure with passive cooling, Bias Tee circuit, improved power supply design, and an integrated HF upconverter.

Note: The V4 model requires the latest drivers to operate. Some software is not yet compatible; most major applications are supported, but certain niche programs may not work. For more details, please refer to the V4 user guide.

RTL-SDR Blog V4 Improvements

Improved HF reception: The V4 uses an integrated upconverter instead of direct sampling, eliminating signal folding around ~14.4 MHz and improving sensitivity and gain control on HF. The frequency range starts at 500 kHz, although strong reception may require additional attenuation or filtering.

Advanced filtering: The R828D chip used in the V4 features three inputs, enabling triple-band filtering (HF, VHF, UHF). This reduces cross-band interference and limits the impact of out-of-band signals that could overload reception.

Notch filters for common interference: Thanks to a dedicated R828D pin, notch filters have been added to attenuate common interference bands such as AM, FM, and DAB. Although attenuation is only a few dB, it can still improve overall signal quality.

Reduced phase noise: The redesigned power supply significantly reduces phase noise coming from the power source.

Lower heat generation: With improved power efficiency, the V4 consumes slightly less current and generates less heat compared to the V3.

Additional minor improvements include a Bias Tee status LED and a case hole indicator to show when it is active. Core V3 features remain unchanged, including the black metal enclosure acting as a heatsink, thermal pad, SMA connector, and improved ESD protection.

Disadvantages of RTL-SDR Blog V4 compared to V3

Slight sensitivity reduction: Due to enhanced filtering, some bands may show an average sensitivity reduction of 2–3 dB.

Specific drivers required: The V4 requires RTL-SDR Blog drivers, available on GitHub. Installation is straightforward by running the install-rtlsdr-blog.bat file or replacing a .dll file. (Update: the Osmocom branch and most major software now also support V4.)

Limited production design: The R828D chip is no longer in production, and availability depends on stock from the manufacturer in China. (Update: production is currently expected to continue through 2025.)

For these reasons, the RTL-SDR Blog V3 will continue to be sold alongside the V4.

By purchasing this product, you will receive an original RTL-SDR Blog V4 radio receiver in the USB-C female connector version. The dipole antenna kit is sold separately.

If you don’t have a cable to connect the receiver to your PC, you can use a USB-C to USB-A cable (1 meter) for greater flexibility in positioning and use.

If you are looking for other versions, you can find them here: RTL-SDR Blog V3, RTL-SDR Blog V4, RTL-SDR Blog V3 (USB-C).

RTL-SDR BLOG name: RTL-SDR Blog V4 R828D RTL2832U 1PPM TCXO SMA Software Defined Radio (Dongle Only) (USB-C female)