Have you ever been on the road and needed to communicate with other drivers? If you have, then you know the importance of a CB radio.
Since the inception of CB radios in the late 1940s, truck drivers have used them to communicate with one another while on the open road, as well as obtain information on traffic and weather conditions in various states.
These days, there are many different types of CB radios available on the market, and it’s hard to tell which one will function effectively. Not to worry, we’ve got you covered.
Here at Car Sumu, we conducted comprehensive market research on the best CB Radio for truckers and have created a detailed review of the 10 top-rated models currently available.
We’ll go over the different features of each product and help you decide which one is right for you. Let’s get started!
[wptb id=3605]Our 10 Best CB Radio for Truckers:
Here are the detailed reviews-
1. Cobra 29LX Professional CB Radio
Cobra Electronics is a professional CB radio manufacturer, producing high-quality trucker products for years. Their 29LX professional CB radio is perfect for drivers who want to stay connected on the go.
This CB radio features Bluetooth connectivity that connects to phones only. It can transmit and receive on both AM and SSB bands, so you’ll be able to communicate with other drivers no matter where you are.
The Cobra 29LX CB radio comes packed with plenty of features. It has 40 channels, including emergency channel 9 and information channel 19. With four watts of power and a four-color (green, blue, amber, and red) LCD easy-to-read display, you’ll be able to see in any condition.
The screen shows the correct time, operating CB, and weather frequencies. You can also set alarms to keep you alert and on track to your destination.
Furthermore, this CB radio comes with a noise cancellation microphone with an adjustable dynamic boost feature for increased voice clarity. It has a built-in speaker, but we recommend getting an external one.
Thanks to its NOAA weather alerts and instant access to 10 NOAA weather channels 24/7 in all 50 states, you will be informed of incoming hazards or changing weather all through your ride.
As if that weren’t enough, it will automatically tune into the strongest weather channel and alert signal available, ensuring that you don’t miss any crucial weather announcements.
When you buy this radio, it comes packaged with a handheld microphone, transceiver bracket, microphone bracket, and a DC power chord. Be informed that you’ll need a power source and an antenna to use this radio.
Benefits
- This CB radio comes with 40 channels, including emergency channel nine and information channel 19.
- It features a noise-cancellation microphone for increased voice clarity.
- It has NOAA weather alerts and instant access to 10 NOAA weather channels 24/7 in all 50 states.
- It is easy to install.
Drawbacks
2. Uniden BEARCAT 980 40- Channel SSB CB Radio
The Uniden’s BEARCAT 980 CB radio offers 40 channels of SSB (single-sideband) communication, making it great for long-distance communications.
It is packed with features, including automatic noise reduction, 12 volts, a front-panel mic socket, and adjustable power output.
This CB radio has a backlit 7” LCD and illuminated control knobs so you can easily see as you drive. Its display screen features seven different backlights to customize the display color to your preference.
Plus, you can brighten or dim the backlight display when needed/wanted. However, its brightest setting isn’t bright enough and the LCD screen doesn’t last long.
The Uniden BEARCAT 980 40- channel SSB CB radio NOAA weather alert keeps you informed of hazardous weather conditions while on the road.
It comes equipped with an integrated huge digital S/RF/SWR to help you adjust your antenna for peak performance. However, you’ll need to purchase a good antenna for it.
This radio also includes a noise-canceling microphone to reduce background noise and an automatic noise limiter to keep static from obscuring your signal.
It also has RF gain control for clear communication with other drivers regardless of the distance. It is also compatible with the Uniden BC906W CB wireless microphone for more functionality.
Benefits
- It is a good-sounding radio with SSB capabilities.
- This CB radio comes with a plethora of features to keep you connected in your truck.
- Its 7” LCD backlit display screen offers seven different colors to choose from.
- It has NOAA weather alerts with huge digital S/RF/SWR.
- This radio comes equipped with a noise-canceling microphone with RF gain control for clear communication.
Drawbacks
- The LCD screen doesn’t last long.
- The screen’s brightest setting is hard to see during the day.
- You’ll need to purchase an antenna to use the radio.
3. Pro Trucker Uniden PRO505XL CB Radio Full Kit
The Uniden PRO505XL CB radio offers clear sound quality and features made for professionals. The LCD screen on this CB radio is larger than that of the Uniden Pro 510 XL and 520 XL radios, allowing for better sight of the current operating channel and signal information.
It features 40 CB channels and has instant access to the emergency channel 9 that warns of danger ahead. It also comes equipped with attachments for a PA and external speakers.
This CB radio features a squelch control to enhance communication quality and cancel noise.
It has an S/RF meter for monitoring transmission and reception signal strength, volume buttons, up and down channel buttons, and a PA/CB quick switch. Note that the radio is not consistent in receiving and transmitting, so it may not perform well in emergencies.
Furthermore, this kit comes with everything you need to get started, including the radio, 4ft CB antenna, 12ft coax cable, microphone, antenna mount, stud, and spring. It’s easy to set up and use.
Benefits
- This kit comes with everything you need to use the CB radio.
- The radio has 40 channels and instant access to emergency channel 9.
- You can connect the radio to a PA system and external speakers.
- You’ll get a 4ft CB antenna, 12ft coax cable, microphone, antenna mount, stud, and spring in this kit.
- It is easy to install.
Drawbacks
- It is not consistent in receiving or transmitting.
4. President MCKINLEY USA SSB 12/24V CB Radio
Whether you’re a long-haul trucker or just driving cross-country, a good CB radio is essential for staying in touch with other drivers and getting help in an emergency.
The President MCKINLEY USA SSB 12/24V CB radio is one of the best on the market, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants to stay connected while on the road. Here’s a closer look at this top-of-the-line CB radio and what it has to offer.
The President MCKINLEY USA SSB 12/24V CB radio offers superior sound quality and performance. It’s perfect for truckers, RV enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to stay connected while on the go.
This radio offers 40 channels of AM/ USB/LSB operations and a 9/19 emergency channel preset. It also has a backlit LCD and keypad, making it easy to use in lowlight conditions. You can select one of three colors for the backlit display.
The President MCKINLEY USA SSB 12/24V CB radio has weather channels with the alert for added safety and peace of mind while on the road.
There are several buttons on the front panel, such as a volume adjustment, ON/OFF button, and a manual squelch & ASC for optimal sound quality. It also features S-meter, ANL filter, NB, and HI-CUT for clear transmission.
This CB radio comes with a noise cancellation microphone, front microphone plug, external loudspeaker jack, and front loudspeaker so that you can always stay connected and in control. Be informed that you’ll need to purchase a mobile or base station antenna with a coax cable to use this radio.
Benefits
- It is a great CB radio.
- It features a noise cancellation microphone, a front microphone plug, an external loudspeaker jack, and a front loudspeaker.
- Its backlit display has three colors for you to choose from.
- This CB radio features S-meter, ANL filter, NB, and HI-CUT for clear transmission.
Drawbacks
- It runs hot and may not last long.
5. Galaxy DX-929 40-Channel CB Radio with StarLite Faceplate
The Galaxy DX-929 CB radio is a top pick for many truckers. It’s a reliable, professional radio that can help you stay in touch with other drivers on the road.
Its Starlite faceplate and illuminated control panel make it easy to use in low-light conditions. Plus, its 40 channels give you plenty of options for communication.
The DX-929 radio features 4 watts of power and a front microphone jack. It has many useful features such as the adjustable dimmer control, adjustable talkback circuit, variable power output control, and large meter with four functions – (signal strength, power output, modulation, SWR).
Furthermore, the radio noise blanker helps to reduce interference from other signals. This feature is helpful if you are driving in an area with a lot of traffic. Overall, the Galaxy DX-29 has all the features you need to stay connected on the road.
Benefits
- This CB radio is very reliable.
- It has useful features that will help you stay safe and connected.
- There are 40 channels available on this radio for communication.
- Its faceplate helps visibility in lowlight conditions.
Drawbacks
- This CB radio may not last for long.
6. AnyTone AT-5555N 10 Meter Radio for Truck
The AnyTone AT-5555N 10 meter radio is for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile radio. It features 12W AM, 30W FM, and SSB 30W PEP power output.
The SSB/FM/AM/PA modes make the radio extremely versatile. Its large LCD screen shows frequency and all kinds of information FM/AM/USB/LSB/PA modes. Its frequency tuning steps include 100Hz, 1KHz, 10KHz, 100KHz, and 1MHz.
This radio has a flexible menu function, ECHO function, SQ, ASQ function (FM and AM mode only), RF GAIN adjustment, VOX function (Level Adjustable), ANL function, and NB & HI-CUT function.
This radio is a 10M HAM radio, and altering it for CB usage is banned in the United States. However, it is not illegal all over the world. If you are in the US, you can convert to a CB at your own risk.
Additionally, one thing to keep in mind with the AnyTone AT-5555N is that it does not come with an antenna. This is something you will need to purchase separately. But, the radio does come with everything else you need to get started, including a power cord, mounting bracket, screws, and many more.
Benefits
- This radio comes with many features that are important for truck drivers.
- It offers a great value for its price due to its qualities and construction.
- It is effortless to use and is one of the most versatile units available.
- This radio can be used as a CB or 10M HAM.
Drawbacks
- It is illegal to use this radio as a CB in the USA.
- It doesn’t come with an antenna.
7. Midland 75-822 40 Channel CB-Way Radio
The Midland 75-882 is a 40 channel CB-way radio that’s perfect for any driver. It features noise cancellation technology on its microphone, which helps reduce background noise so you can hear whoever is talking to you.
Plus, its microphone gain control allows you to adjust the volume of the person speaking to you depending on how loud they are.
The Midland 75-882 CB-way radio has 40 CB channels and channel scan, letting you keep in touch with the outside world no matter where you go. You will be able to keep up with current events, get important news and information, and even find help in an emergency if need be.
You can store and instantly access five of your favorite channels in the radio’s memory. It also features ten NOAA channels for weather alerts, so you’ll always be prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store for you.
As part of its standard package, the Midland 75-882 comes with ANL (automatic noise limiter) and squelch control for clearer communication. It also has a backlit LCD for easy viewing in low light conditions and even comes with a belt clip and an external speaker jack.
The Midland 75-882 CB radio functions with six AA batteries or the included cigarette lighter accessory for mobile use.
You’ll get an antenna, hand strap, belt clip, owner’s manual, and AC wall adapter when you buy this radio. However, the antenna doesn’t function well. You’ll need to purchase a high-quality one to enjoy the radio.
Benefits
- This portable CB radio transmission/reception works well with a quality external antenna.
- It has 40 CB channels and over 9 NOAA channels for weather alerts.
- It functions with the included six AA batteries or the included cigarette lighter accessory for mobile use.
- The CB radio comes packaged with essential accessories to improve its functionality.
Drawbacks
- The included antenna doesn’t function at all.
8. RoadKing RKCBCLASSIC 40 Channel CB Mobile (SWR Cal, RF Gain)
Looking for a dependable yet affordable CB radio to keep you connected on the road? The RoadKing RKCBCLASSIC radio might be just what you need. It’s packed with features that make it ideal for novice and experienced users alike.
This mobile CB radio has 40 channels with an SWR illuminated meter to ensure that your antenna is properly tuned for optimal performance.
It also features a 4 Watts AM RF power output with RF gain control to adjust the signal strength to best suit your current location and conditions. Thanks to its scan mode, you can quickly find active channels.
RoadKing included a four-pin microphone connector on the front panel as well as a dynamic microphone with a 9ft wire to keep you connected when on the move. Plus, its receive/transmit indicator with automatic noise limiter helps where there is a lot of background noise or interference.
With the RoadKing RKCBCLASSIC CB radio PA/CB switch, you use your CB radio as a public address system.
This feature is useful in situations where you need to make an announcement or provide instruction to a large group of people. Overall, this radio is packed with features, and it’s easy to use.
Benefits
- This CB radio is one of the most affordable and reliable options in the market.
- At a low price, it has lots of features of expensive models.
- You won’t have any problems using this radio.
- It transmits and receives well.
Drawbacks
- None we could find.
9. Radioddity CB-27 Mini CB Radio
The CB-27 mini CB radio from Radioddity is for budget-conscious truckers looking for an affordable Citizens Band (CB) radio. This little unit packs a lot of features.
It offers 40 channels AM radio that also has instant emergency channel access to Channel 9 and Channel 19, four watts of power, and automatic noise control. Thanks to its large display, it is easy to see what’s going on, even in bright sunlight. Plus, it is easy to use; plug it in and turn it on.
This CB radio has an RF gain control built-in, with 9 levels of automatic squelch (ASQ) and 29 levels of manual squelch, enabling you to modify the signal intensity based on your surroundings.
These are great features to have if you’re driving through an area with a lot of interference. It also comes with a removable microphone, so you can take it with you wherever you go. However, the microphone doesn’t last at all.
The Radioddity CB-27 is one of the smallest CB radios on the market, making it perfect for those who don’t want to sacrifice space in their vehicle for a radio. Its sound quality is excellent and it picks up stations even in areas with a lot of noise pollution.
The emergency channels are easy to access and work perfectly. However, you need the Radioddity 28″ long CB antenna to enjoy its abilities to the fullest.
Benefits
- This little guy has all the bells and whistles you could want in a portable CB unit.
- It comes with a removable microphone and has RF gain control with 9 levels of automatic squelch (ASQ) and 29 levels of manual squelch.
- It has over 40 channels and instant access to channel 9 and channel 19.
- This CB radio is super easy to install and easy to use.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t come with an antenna.
- The microphone is inferior.
10. Stryker SR-655 10 Meter Amateur Radio
The Stryker SR-655 10 meter amateur radio is the last on our list. It is not a CB radio (11-meter radio) per se, but a 10-meter radio.
However, its many features and functions make it handy for anyone who wants to stay connected while on the road.
The radio has a 7-Color LED-backlit faceplate display that lets you choose between seven different colors with a click of a button to easily read and see in low light conditions.
Alternatively, the radio CPU can scan automatically through all colors. Thanks to its new 32 step dimming function, you can lower the lights to your preference.
The Stryker SR-655 radio uses 4 IRF-520 MOSFET transistors and pushes 70 to 75 watts. It features a clear 655HPC receiver that receives up to 50 miles and transmits out about 20 miles.
The sound quality is also decent, making it easy to communicate with others. The manufacturer, Stryker, equipped this radio with a clarifier that allows you to choose if you want it to control both transmitting & receiving or only receiving. Like most CB radios, you’ll need to buy a functioning antenna to get good performance.
With its channel selector switch (encoder), you can easily find the right channel for 655hpc radios. Other features of this radio include VFO mode, digital echo controls, 6 tones roger beeps, talkback control with no distortion and noise. That said, the Stryker SR-655 radio is easy to install and comes with all you need, making it ideal for amateur truckers.
Benefits
- This radio sounds awesome, transmits good, and receives great!
- It comes at an affordable price.
- The radio features the 655HPC receiver that’s loud and clear.
- Its 7-Color LED-backlit faceplate display lets you choose between seven different colors.
- The radio has a 32 step dimming function.
Drawbacks
- It is not a CB radio (11-meter radio) but a 10-meter radio.
How to Choose the Best CB Radio for Truckers?
In this section, we will discuss the factors you need to consider when choosing a CB radio for your truck. We’ll help you figure out what features are important to you!
Capable of Scanning More Channel Options
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a CB radio is how many channels it can scan. The more channel options, the better! You want to be able to find a clear channel no matter where you are.
Frequency Range
The frequency range is another important factor to consider. You want a radio that can pick up frequencies both high and low. This way, you can be sure to hear every transmission clearly.
Squelch Control
The squelch control is a feature that allows you to eliminate static from channels that are not in use. This is a very important feature, as it will allow you to hear transmissions more clearly.
Automatic Noise Limiter
The automatic noise limiter is a great feature for Truckers. It helps to reduce the amount of background noise, making it easier to hear transmissions.
Sound Quality
You’ll want to consider the sound quality of the CB radio. You want a radio that produces clear and crisp sound, so you can understand every transmission.
Price
Of course, you’ll want to consider the price of the CB radio. You don’t want to spend more than you need to, but you also don’t want to sacrifice quality.
Types of CB Radio
There are different types of CB radios to choose from. If you’re a trucker, you’ll want to get a mobile CB radio. These radios come with either a magnetic or suction mount, so you can easily attach them to your dashboard. They also have more channels than handheld models, which is important for keeping in touch with other truckers on the road.
If you’re looking for a CB radio that’s portable and easy to use, then a handheld model might be right for you. These radios are small and lightweight, so you can take them with you wherever you go. Handheld models also have more channels than mobile models, making them ideal for staying in touch with friends and family while on the go.
CB Radio Brand
There are many different brands of CB radios to choose from. Some of the most popular brands include Cobra, Uniden, Galaxy, Stryker, and Midland.
When choosing a CB radio, it’s important to consider all of the factors we’ve discussed. By taking the time to do your research, you’ll be sure to find the best CB radio for your needs!
Final Thoughts
Truckers need a functioning CB radio to communicate while on the road. The ten models that we have reviewed are the top-rated options available and will provide you with clear sound quality, durability, and range.
Now that you have looked at our top picks, it’s time for you to make a decision. All of these radios have great features and will serve you well while on the road. Select from our list and purchase. Thanks for reading!