If you operate portable, do IOTA, POTA, SOTA, or just want to log QSOs without a laptop, a good mobile logging app saves time and errors. Here are the best amateur radio logging apps for Android and iOS right now, based on features, LoTW/QRZ support, contest use, and offline capability.

Quick Comparison Table

1. HAMRS – The POTA and SOTA Standard

Focus: Fast logging for portable operators. Built specifically for POTA, SOTA, WWFF.
Why hams use it: Huge buttons, auto time, template for parks and summits. You can log 100 QSOs without touching a keyboard. Exports ADIF 3.1.4 that works with LoTW, QRZ, eQSL.
Key features:

• Full offline. No cell signal needed at a summit
• Remembers previous QSOs for dup checking
• Built in POTA and SOTA database. Tap the park or summit and it fills the fields
• Runs on everything: phone, tablet, laptop
• Exports to LoTW and QRZ via ADIF. Pro version adds direct QRZ upload

Limitations: Not for contesting. No CAT control.
Download: Android Play Store | iOS App Store
Website: hamrs.app

2. PoLo – Portable Logger – Fastest for Field Ops

Focus: Speed. Designed by ham2k for operators who need to log a pileup fast.
Why hams use it: The UI is optimized for one hand. Swipe to enter RST, huge Next QSO button, audio cues. Popular for POTA activators running 100+ QSOs/hour.
Key features:

• Offline first with instant startup
• Auto lookup from HamDB, QRZ XML if online
• Custom fields for POTA, SOTA, field day
• Exports ADIF, CSV, Cabrillo
• Free and open source

Limitations: No direct LoTW upload. Export then upload.
Download: Android Play Store | iOS App Store
Website: polo.ham2k.com

3. CloudlogOffline – For Cloudlog Users

Focus: Companion app for the Cloudlog web logger.
Why hams use it: If your main log is Cloudlog on a server, this app lets you log offline at a park then sync when you have internet. No manual ADIF needed.
Key features:

• Full offline QSO entry
• Two way sync with your Cloudlog instance
• Pulls QRZ and HamQTH data when online
• Supports SOTA, POTA, WWFF fields

Limitations: You must already run Cloudlog. Not standalone.
Download: Android Play Store | iOS App Store
Website: github.com/dh1tw/CloudlogOffline

4. VK Port-a-Log – Built for Portable Awards

Focus: VK and ZL portable ops, but works worldwide. Strong WWFF and SOTA support.
Why hams use it: Written by VK3ZPF who activates parks weekly. UI is built around real field use. Handles multi park activations and UTC well.
Key features:

• Custom fields for WWFF, SOTA, POTA, SiOTA
• Rig control via Bluetooth CAT for IC-705, FT-891
• Real time dup checking across multiple activations
• ADIF export formatted for LoTW, eQSL, Club Log

Limitations: Paid app. Android version is more mature than iOS.
Download: Android Play Store | iOS App Store
Website: vk3zpf.com/vk-port-a-log

5. QRZ Mobile App – Best for QRZ Logbook Users

Focus: Direct integration with QRZ.com.
Why hams use it: If you live in QRZ logbook, this is the simplest. Look up a call, tap Log Contact, done.
Key features:

• One tap logging to QRZ logbook
• Direct LoTW upload if you are a QRZ subscriber
• Call sign lookup with bio, QSL info
• Works on phone and tablet

Limitations: Needs internet for most features. Offline mode is basic. No contest support.
Download: Android Play Store | iOS App Store
Website: qrz.com

6. HamLog – Simple LoTW Logger for iOS

Focus: iPhone and iPad users who want direct LoTW without a PC.
Why hams use it: One of the few iOS apps that talks directly to LoTW using your TQSL cert. No ADIF export dance.
Key features:

• Direct LoTW upload and download
• DXCC tracking
• iCloud sync between iPhone and iPad
• Works offline

Limitations: iOS only. UI is dated. No POTA/SOTA templates.
Download: iOS App Store
Website: pignology.net/hamlog

How to Pick One

Important Tips Before You Head Out

1. Test ADIF export at home: Log 5 fake QSOs, export, and upload to LoTW or QRZ. Fix problems before you are on a summit with no signal.
2. Set your phone to UTC: Most awards require UTC. iOS: Settings > General > Date & Time > turn off Set Automatically, pick UTC. Android: Use Set Time to UTC apps.
3. Bring power: Logging apps drain battery. These are lighter than N1MM on a laptop, but still bring a power bank.
4. Backup: Email yourself the ADIF after each activation. Phones get dropped.

All these apps are actively maintained in 2025 and 2026. For most portable hams, HAMRS or PoLo will cover 95% of needs. If you are deep in one ecosystem like Cloudlog or QRZ, use their dedicated app.

The post Best Amateur Radio Logging Apps for Android and iOS in 2026 appeared on Hamradio.my - Amateur Radio, Tech Insights and Product Reviews by 9M2PJU.