It depends on what you want to use it for. It's somewhat awkward to program, and use. It's not great as a "scanner", as the scan speed is very slow. It doesn't follow trunked systems, it can't decode the newer digital systems. I've never seen any decent software developed for it. It's mediocre as a shortwave receiver also. That being said, and considering what it cost, I would say no, it's not worth the money.