The Goozeezo ATS Mini V3 is the latest iteration of a beloved portable radio line built on the SI4732 receiver chip and ESP32-S3 microcontroller. Compact yet capable, this model continues the trend of improving reception quality, UI design, and headphone output fidelity—while staying under $45 USD.
This review compares V1, V2, and V3, evaluates real-world reception performance across AM, FM, and shortwave, and provides firmware and usability insights for both enthusiasts and tinkerers.
1. ATS Mini V3#
The ATS Mini V3 represents the maturation of Goozeezo’s handheld software-defined radio series. Despite its small form factor—roughly the size of a deck of cards—it houses an ESP32S3 microcontroller, full-color IPS display, and wideband radio coverage including AM, FM, CB, LW, and SSB shortwave.
Model tested: ATS Mini V3
Price: $42.99 USD (Amazon USA)
Available colors: black, white, blue, green, and clear
Purchase links:
2. Unboxing and Design#
In the box:
Goozeezo ATS Mini V3 radio unit
22.5-inch telescopic antenna
USB-A to USB-C charging cable
Broadband adapter
QR code linking to online manual (no printed documentation)
Physical dimensions:
Length: 3 1/8″
Width: 1 5/16″
Height: 1 3/16″
Weight: ~90 grams
The V3 features an injection-molded case, marking a notable upgrade from the 3D-printed V2 shell. Build quality feels premium and durable, giving the impression of a product ready for daily use or travel.
3. Display and Controls#
The 1.9-inch IPS color display is crisp, with high contrast and multiple viewing angles. Different UI themes and display layouts can be selected in the menu, giving users control over both aesthetics and readability.
Control Layout:#
Main knob: Rotates for tuning or menu navigation
Knob button: Short press = volume mode; long press = display off
Side buttons: Band switching and memory functions
Headphone jack: Upgraded with an internal amplifier for V3
This headphone amp alone elevates the listening experience dramatically—particularly for shortwave SSB reception and FM stereo clarity.
4. Hardware Overview#
| Component | Specification |
|------------|----------------|
| Chipset | SI4732 full-band receiver |
| MCU | ESP32-S3 (80 MHz dual-core) |
| Battery | 800 mAh lithium rechargeable |
| Charging | USB-C (500 mA input) |
| Antenna Port | SMA female |
| Case Type | Injection-molded plastic |
| Audio Output | Headphone amp + built-in speaker |
| Firmware | Ships with v2.23 (upgradable to 2.28 or 2.32) |
The ESP32-S3 enables modern features such as firmware updates, Wi-Fi, and digital signal processing, while maintaining low power draw.
The SMA connector opens possibilities for external antenna experimentation—a must for serious shortwave listeners.
5. Reception Performance#
FM Band#
Performance: Excellent sensitivity and stereo separation.
Sound Signature: Strong bass, decent mids, slightly hissy highs.
RDS Support: Functional and informative for local FM stations.
AM (Medium Wave)#
Performance: Average with the stock telescopic antenna.
Improves greatly when paired with a loop antenna or long wire.
Midrange response is neutral, making voice transmissions clear.
Shortwave (SW)#
Performance: Average to good depending on antenna length and frequency.
Capable of tuning global shortwave broadcasts with surprising fidelity for its size.
A simple 20-ft long wire antenna significantly improves gain.
SSB (Single Side Band)#
Works reliably, though fine-tuning requires patience due to small knob sensitivity.
Excellent for hobbyist-level ham band monitoring.
Verdict: The ATS Mini V3 punches far above its weight for a pocket radio. Reception is solid across all bands, particularly with external antennas.
6. Firmware, Menu, and Software Ecosystem#
The firmware shipped (v2.23) can be upgraded from the official GitHub releases page to v2.28 or v2.32.
Each firmware release refines AGC, improves noise handling, and introduces UI tweaks.
Key Menu Features#
Memory presets
Bandwidth control
AGC / Attenuation / Soft mute
Brightness & calibration
RDS / UTC offset / FM region setting
UI layout and themes
Sleep mode & screen timeout
Wi-Fi and diagnostic settings
The menu system feels snappy and intuitive once you adapt to its rotary-button logic.
Users can even tweak AVC and DSP parameters, revealing the radio’s deep software-defined nature.
7. V1 vs V2 vs V3 Comparison#
| Feature | V1 | V2 | V3 |
|----------|----|----|----|
| Headphone Amp | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ (improved clarity) |
| Case Type | 3D printed | 3D printed | Injection-molded |
| High-Z Circuit | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ |
| Noise Floor | High | Moderate | Low |
| Firmware | Early SI4732 | Stable | Mature (Wi-Fi, DSP tweaks) |
| Price | ~$30 | $34.99 | $42.99 |
Takeaway:
V2 was the value winner. V3 is the refinement—the best version yet, especially for those who use headphones or external antennas.
8. Likes and Improvement Wishlist#
✅ What’s Great#
Compact, modern design
IPS color display
Low noise floor
Proper high-Z circuit
Headphone amp and clean stereo output
ESP32-S3 power efficiency
RDS and SSB support
Excellent value for money
⚙️ What Could Be Better#
Dual SMA jacks (one for 50Ω, one for high-Z)
Grounded antenna input option
Printed manual for offline reference
9. Overall Recommendation#
The Goozeezo ATS Mini V3 is one of the most versatile pocket receivers available in 2025.
It combines DIY upgradability, solid RF performance, and excellent ergonomics for under $45.
If you’re on a budget or want a pocket-sized SDR that doesn’t need a PC, the ATS Mini V3 is an easy recommendation.
The V2 still makes sense for experimenters who prefer cheaper hardware for modding.
Verdict: The V3 is a total winner—cleaner audio, better build, and smarter firmware.
10. Resources#
- Educational and decentralized publishing permitted
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