HackRF One

What it is

HackRF One is the production hardware platform of the HackRF project, a half-duplex software defined radio (SDR) peripheral built by Great Scott Gadgets. Its hardware designs and host software are open source under GPL-2.0, and the device itself is sold through authorized resellers.

What it helps with

- Receiving and transmitting radio signals anywhere from 1 MHz to 6 GHz
- Capturing at sample rates from 2 Msps to 20 Msps with 8-bit resolution
- Working as a USB peripheral or being programmed for stand-alone operation
- Testing and developing modern and next-generation radio technologies

Who it's for

RF researchers, hardware hackers, and security testers who study wireless protocols and devices.

Worth knowing

For authorized use only: transmitting is regulated in most countries, so only transmit where you are licensed and only test devices you are allowed to. Maximum input power is -5 dBm, and exceeding it can permanently damage the device, so an external attenuator is the safer choice for strong signals.

Is HackRF One free?
No, the device is paid hardware, while its designs, firmware, and host software are free and open source.

Can it transmit and receive at the same time?
No, HackRF One is half-duplex, so it either transmits or receives at any one moment.

How does it compare with Flipper Zero and Proxmark3?
In our view HackRF One is the wide-band SDR for general radio research, while Flipper Zero is a pocket multi-tool and Proxmark3 focuses on RFID and NFC.