Here’s a compact, practical guide to affordable aviation communications — what options exist, typical costs, pros/cons, and how to pick the right mix for different missions (GA, rotorcraft, drones, small commercial).

High-level categories and what they do

• VHF voice radios (aeronautical band 118–137 MHz): primary voice comms between pilots and ATC. Available as panel-mounted certified units or portable handhelds.
• Transponders / ADS‑B Out: report aircraft identity and altitude to ATC/traffic networks (ADS‑B Out is required in many countries for certain airspace).
• ADS‑B In / portable traffic/weather receivers: give pilots traffic and weather/traffic displays on tablets/EFIS. Useful for situational awareness; not a substitute for ATC.
• Satellite comms & satellite messengers (Iridium/Inmarsat-type networks and personal satellite messengers): global voice/data/SOS where VHF/cell don’t reach. Range from inexpensive personal messengers to costly certified airborne satcom.
• ELT / PLB / personal locator beacons: emergency location transmitters (406 MHz PLBs/ELTs are standard for search-and-rescue).
• Intercoms & headsets: cockpit crew comms and noise reduction. Essential for safety and comfort.
• Data links / CPDLC / ACARS / onboard Wi‑Fi: used by larger/airline/business operations for data and text clearance services; usually not relevant or affordable for most GA.
• UAS/drone links: RC telemetry (868/915 MHz, 2.4 GHz), LTE/5G or dedicated mesh radios for long-range C2 and telemetry.

Typical cost ranges (ballpark)

• Handheld VHF comm: $200–$900.
• Panel-mounted certified VHF comm (new): $1,500–$6,000+ (plus installation).
• ADS‑B Out transponder (GA): roughly $1,000–$5,000+ depending on model and whether it’s a combined transponder/ADS‑B unit; installation/STC costs extra.
• Portable ADS‑B In receivers: $100–$600.
• Satellite messenger / two‑way personal sat device: device $200–$1,000; subscriptions usually $10–$60+/month depending on plan.
• Certified airborne satellite systems / inflight internet: several thousand to tens of thousands (hardware + airtime).
• ELT (installed): $300–$2,000+ depending on type and installation. PLB: $200–$500.
• Intercoms: $200–$1,200. Headsets: $150–$1,500.

Affordable setups by mission (recommendations)

• Student / low‑budget GA pilot (minimal cost, legal/compliant):
  • Handheld VHF (reliable brand), good aviation headset, portable ADS‑B In receiver for traffic/weather on a tablet, and a PLB for remote flying.
  • Estimated outlay: $600–$1,800 (device choices vary).
• Owner‑flown certified GA aircraft (cost + compliance balanced):
  • Prioritize a certified ADS‑B Out solution if you fly in ADS‑B required airspace. Consider a panel‑mounted VHF if you want integrated features, or add a high‑quality handheld as backup. Add a certified ELT if required.
  • Expect $2k–$8k+ including installation for a meaningful upgrade.
• Small commercial / charter / business:
  • Invest in certified panel comms, certified ADS‑B Out, reliable satcom (if long overwater or remote ops), and data link options if needed. Budget accordingly — tens of thousands if satcom included.
• Drones / UAS (affordable options):
  • Short range: standard RC controllers and telemetry radios (2.4 GHz / 900 MHz).
  • Long range / BVLOS testing: LTE/5G gateways or dedicated licensed-band modems; use redundant telemetry and comply with C2/regulatory rules. Costs range from <$100 (basic) to several thousand for robust LTE/satellite C2 solutions.

Ways to keep costs down (practical tips)

• Use a good handheld VHF as primary on a budget — inexpensive, portable, and works as a backup if panel fails.
• For situational awareness use a portable ADS‑B In receiver (no ADS‑B Out requirement) — inexpensive and gives traffic/weather to your tablet.
• Buy used certified avionics from reputable sellers; verify functional test records and check whether STC/installation is compatible with your aircraft.
• For certified aircraft, shop for package deals (comms + transponder/ADS‑B combos) and compare installation charges — shop multiple shops.
• For experimental aircraft you can save substantially by installing non‑TSO equipment, but verify limitations for IFR/airspace and insurance implications.
• Prioritize required/legal items first (e.g., ADS‑B Out in many airspaces, ELT where required), then add convenience/backup gear.

Regulatory/installation notes (important)

• Certified aircraft often require TSO‑ or STC‑approved equipment and certified installations; experimental aircraft have more flexibility. Always confirm with your local aviation authority and your AME/shop before modifying avionics.
• Some airspaces require ADS‑B Out for operations — make that a priority if relevant to your flying.
• Personal satellite devices and PLBs often require subscription activation and periodic battery replacement; ELTs have maintenance/inspection rules. Check regulations for the country where the aircraft is registered.

Quick buying checklist

• Is the unit certified for your aircraft type (TSO/STC) if you fly a certified airplane?
• Power and antenna compatibility (do you need a remote antenna or PTT wiring)?
• Installation cost and downtime.
• Warranty/support and availability of spare parts/service.
• Subscription and recurring fees (satcom, weather services, traffic services).
• Backup/ redundancy: handheld radio, portable ADS‑B In, PLB.

Sample baseline budget recommendations

• Under $1,000: handheld VHF + good headset + portable ADS‑B In receiver or PLB. Good for students/limited budgets.
• $1,000–$5,000: upgraded handheld or economical panel VHF, ADS‑B Out or combo transponder/ADS‑B (used or lower‑cost new), headset and intercom. Good entry-level for owner‑flown GA.
• $5,000+: integrated panel comms + certified ADS‑B Out + satcom options or premium traffic/weather services for frequent or cross‑country flying.

If you’d like, I can convert this into a short shopping list tailored to a specific platform (e.g., Cessna 172, Robinson R44, Phenom 100, or a quadcopter) and a budget number — that will let me recommend specific models and installation approaches.