When it comes to spectrum analyzers, Rigol and Siglent are two popular brands known for providing affordable and feature-rich instruments for hobbyists, engineers, and professionals.
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Both companies offer high-quality products with robust capabilities, making it challenging to choose between them. In this article, we will compare a spectrum analyzer from each brand, explore their features, and examine the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of Spectrum Analyzers
A spectrum analyzer is an essential tool for RF (radio frequency) engineers and hobbyists working with signals. It measures signal strength over a range of frequencies, allowing users to analyze signal components, interference, noise, and harmonics. These tools are vital in fields like telecommunications, broadcast, electronics, and radio design.
We’ll compare the Rigol DSA815-TG from Rigol and the Siglent SSA3021X from Siglent, two popular models with similar price points and target users.
Comparison Table: Rigol DSA815-TG vs Siglent SSA3021X
| Feature | Rigol DSA815-TG | Siglent SSA3021X |
|---|---|---|
| 💳 Price | Check Price | Check Price |
| Frequency Range | 9 kHz – 1.5 GHz | 9 kHz – 2.1 GHz |
| Resolution Bandwidth (RBW) | 100 Hz – 1 MHz | 1 Hz – 1 MHz |
| Display | 8-inch WVGA (800×480) | 10.1-inch TFT LCD (1024×600) |
| Tracking Generator | Yes (1.5 GHz) | Yes (2.1 GHz) |
| Phase Noise | -80 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz | -98 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz |
| Noise Floor | -135 dBm | -161 dBm |
| Marker Functions | 3 markers | 10 markers |
| Pre-Amplifier | Built-in pre-amplifier (optional) | Built-in pre-amplifier |
| Connectivity | USB, LAN | USB, LAN, VGA |
In all categories the Siglent SA is better than the Rigol.
Detailed Comparison of Features and Specifications
1. Frequency Range
- Rigol DSA815-TG: Has a frequency range of 9 kHz to 1.5 GHz, making it suitable for most basic RF applications, including testing wireless communication devices like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and general-purpose RF design.
- Siglent SSA3021X: Offers a wider frequency range of 9 kHz to 2.1 GHz, providing extra headroom, especially useful for applications like GSM, LTE, and higher-frequency wireless standards.
Verdict: The Siglent SSA3021X offers a wider frequency range, which could be more beneficial for users working with higher-frequency devices.
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2. Resolution Bandwidth (RBW)
- Rigol DSA815-TG: Offers an RBW range from 100 Hz to 1 MHz, providing decent resolution for most common RF applications.
- Siglent SSA3021X: Features an RBW range of 1 Hz to 1 MHz, allowing for greater precision in signal resolution, which is beneficial when analyzing small signals in crowded environments.
Verdict: The Siglent model wins in this category due to its finer resolution bandwidth, making it a better choice for users requiring more detailed signal analysis.
3. Phase Noise
- Rigol DSA815-TG: Has phase noise of -80 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz, which is reasonable for most applications but may show limitations in high-performance environments.
- Siglent SSA3021X: Provides much better phase noise at -98 dBc/Hz @ 10 kHz, meaning the Siglent model delivers cleaner signal measurements with less noise.
Verdict: The Siglent SSA3021X again excels with lower phase noise, which results in better accuracy for high-frequency measurements.
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4. Noise Floor
- Rigol DSA815-TG: Has a noise floor of -135 dBm, which is sufficient for many general RF applications.
- Siglent SSA3021X: With a noise floor of -161 dBm, it can detect much weaker signals, making it a superior option for analyzing very low-power signals.
Verdict: The Siglent SSA3021X outperforms the Rigol model in terms of detecting weak signals due to its lower noise floor.
5. Tracking Generator
- Both models have built-in tracking generators, but the Siglent SSA3021X has a slightly higher range of 2.1 GHz, compared to the 1.5 GHz offered by the Rigol DSA815-TG. This makes the Siglent better suited for testing components at higher frequencies.
Verdict: Siglent SSA3021X offers a slight advantage in the tracking generator frequency range.
6. Display and Connectivity
- Rigol DSA815-TG: Comes with an 8-inch WVGA display (800×480), which is functional but not as high-resolution as Siglent’s display. It supports USB and LAN for connectivity.
- Siglent SSA3021X: Features a larger 10.1-inch TFT LCD display with higher resolution (1024×600), making it easier to visualize signals. It also supports USB, LAN, and VGA output for external displays.
Verdict: The Siglent SSA3021X has a larger, higher-resolution display and additional connectivity options, making it a more versatile choice for users who value visual clarity and flexibility.
Pros and Cons
Rigol DSA815-TG
Pros:
- Affordable: One of the most budget-friendly spectrum analyzers with a tracking generator.
- Compact Design: Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Adequate Features: Suitable for basic RF tasks like testing Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other common applications.
Cons:
- Limited Frequency Range: Only supports up to 1.5 GHz, which may be limiting for advanced RF work.
- Higher Noise Floor: It may struggle to detect very weak signals due to its relatively high noise floor.
- Lower Resolution Display: The smaller display with lower resolution may not be as visually effective for complex signal analysis.
Siglent SSA3021X
Pros:
- Wider Frequency Range: Supports up to 2.1 GHz, making it more versatile for advanced RF testing.
- Better Performance: Lower noise floor and better phase noise make it ideal for high-precision measurements.
- Superior Display: Larger, high-resolution screen makes it easier to read and analyze data.
- More Connectivity Options: VGA output adds flexibility for connecting external displays.
Cons:
- Higher Price: Costs more than the Rigol DSA815-TG, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious users.
- Overkill for Basic Applications: Some of its advanced features may not be necessary for users who only need a basic spectrum analyzer.
Summary: Which One to Choose?
If you’re looking for an affordable, entry-level spectrum analyzer for general-purpose RF applications, the Rigol DSA815-TG is a solid choice. It offers a good set of features for hobbyists and professionals working with signals under 1.5 GHz.
However, if you need more advanced features, such as a wider frequency range, lower noise floor, and better display quality, the Siglent SSA3021X is worth the extra investment. It’s better suited for users who require precision and performance in high-frequency or more complex RF environments.
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