Our Top Picks
CB radios are a reliable choice for staying connected on the road or in emergencies. With impressive range and simplicity, they let you communicate with your group during road trips without fumbling with your phone. They’re especially handy when cell service is spotty or nonexistent, making them essential for off-road adventures or in emergencies. In fact, three-quarters of professional drivers swear by them for good reason. Whether you’re outfitting your vehicle, bug-out bag, or campsite, a solid CB radio ensures you’re never out of touch. Check out our curated list to find the perfect CB radio to fit your needs.
1
Standard Horizon Portable CB Radio
This is a heavy-duty marine radio built for serious boaters. Along with an impressive 6-watt output, it offers a reliable range and a long-lasting SBR-29LI battery that can keep you going for up to 11 hours—though many users claim it runs even longer. It’s packed with useful accessories, from a battery tray and wall charger to a PC connection cable for updates. This radio is designed for durability, with a waterproof construction that can handle tough marine conditions. Emergency features like the Man Overboard alert and strobe light provide extra peace of mind. Despite all its advanced features, it remains user-friendly, thanks to a simple button layout and an easy-to-read dot matrix display. Whether you're an experienced sailor or just starting out, this portable CB radio ensures you stay connected and safe, making it a top pick for any boat.
2
Cobra Portable CB Radio
The Cobra Road Trip CB Radio is a popular choice among seasoned CB users, and for good reason. It’s loaded with features that make it reliable and easy to use, whether you’re a daily commuter or an adventurer on the road. One standout is the backlit display, which lets you choose between four colors, so you can always read the screen clearly, no matter the lighting. It also comes equipped with access to NOAA weather channels, keeping you informed of real-time weather conditions like storms or heat waves. That’s 24/7 updates to help you stay ahead of any situation. Communication is crystal clear too, thanks to the PA function and RF gain feature, which helps boost distant and weak signals. Combine that with the rooftop magnetic antenna, and you’re ready for reliable communication in remote areas. Overall, this portable CB radio balances performance, durability, and convenience, making it a solid choice for any road trip.
3
President Randy Portable CB Radio
This FCC-approved AM/FM handheld CB radio is a compact, reliable tool for anyone on the move. Whether you’re hitting the road or exploring off-grid trails, its 40 channels and 4 watts of RF power keep you connected, while the 7 NOAA weather channels help you stay ahead of any unexpected weather. What really sets it apart is the customizable experience it offers. With a 7-color backlit LCD, you can easily tune in day or night, and the programmable EMG buttons let you tailor your listening preferences. Plus, the dual watch function ensures you can monitor two frequencies at once, so you never miss important updates. Built-in noise filters like ANL and a noise gate keep transmissions clear, even in noisy environments, while the rechargeable 1800 mAh Li-ion battery and Eco mode give you longer run times. Overall, it’s a versatile, user-friendly CB radio, perfect for staying connected no matter where you are.
4
AnyTone Portable CB Radio
This portable Mobile CB Radio is a practical, no-nonsense option for truck drivers or beginners who want reliable communication without the complicated setup. One of its standout features is the 7-color backlit LCD display, which is easy to read day or night, letting you stay focused on the road. Its 12/24V compatibility makes it versatile for different vehicles, and the noise reduction (NR) function helps deliver clear audio, cutting out background static and interference. Plus, the built-in CTCSS/DSC codes and echo function make communication smooth, ensuring your messages come through clearly, even in tough conditions. With 40 channels and WX weather alerts, this radio keeps you updated on important weather conditions while giving you strong signal transmission. It’s a functional, straightforward CB radio that’s perfect for staying connected on the road without all the bells and whistles.
5
Uniden Portable CB Radio
The Uniden Compact Mobile CB Radio is a solid, no-fuss choice for anyone who wants reliable communication on the go. Its compact size makes it a great fit for any vehicle, especially if space is tight. With access to all 40 CB channels and a built-in Public Address (PA) system, it’s got what you need to stay connected or broadcast messages through an external speaker. The large, uncluttered LCD display is easy to read, even while driving, and the Signal/RF power indicator helps keep everything running smoothly.
Whether you're using it for road trips or emergency situations, this CB radio delivers clear communication without the frills. It’s simple enough for beginners but still packs useful features like noise reduction and an automatic noise limiter (ANL), ensuring your transmissions are always crisp. If you need a dependable, affordable CB radio that gets the job done, this is definitely worth considering.
FAQ
How Far Can a CB Radio Transmit?
CB radios are capped at a 4-watt output, a limit set by the FCC to prevent interference with other devices and emergency services. While the power is standardized, your radio's range varies based on factors like location, terrain, and obstructions. Typically, a CB radio can reach between 3 to 20 miles. Enhancing the range often involves optimizing your antenna and fine-tuning your radio settings.
Are CB Radios Still Relevant?
Despite the rise of cell phones, CB radios remain valuable. They function well where cell coverage is poor and offer a straightforward communication method without the need for dialing. CB radios are also excellent for tracking traffic and weather conditions in real-time, providing a sense of security that cell phones alone can’t match. Their popularity is growing again, especially among road-trippers and those enjoying the CB radio community.
Do Truckers Still Use CB Radios?
Yes, many truckers continue to use CB radios. While modern tech offers many solutions, CB radios provide unique benefits, such as real-time communication and road information, that are not always available through cell phones.
Popular CB Radio Channels
For long-haul truckers, channels 17 and 19 are the most frequently used. Channel 19 is favored for north-south routes, while channel 17 is used for east-west travel.
What is NOAA?
NOAA stands for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This agency provides continuous weather updates, including warnings for severe weather conditions like tornadoes and hurricanes. NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts critical weather information that can be crucial for travelers.
Do All CB Radios Have NOAA Weather Access?
Not all CB radios include NOAA Weather Radio. However, several reputable manufacturers, such as Midland, Uniden, and Cobra, offer models with NOAA access.
Article Contributors
JPost Advisor Team
The Jpost Shopping team offers expert picks and insights, helping you find lifestyle-enhancing products. Independent of the newsroom and reader-supported, our team of writers and product enthusiasts also use AI to ensure product dimensions, availability, and pricing are accurate.