TRUCKER DAILY'S CHOICE FOR THE BEST CB RADIO
Get the best-advanced features and a unique, modern design in the Bearcat 880 CB radio. The first thing that stands out in this CB radio is its large color LCD making it easy to see when driving.
Best CB Radio For Truck Drivers
As a trucker, you must have the best and most reliable equipment to keep you safe. Technology has made safety so much more accessible for road users, yet, a traditional CB radio remains a must-have for truck drivers. In truth, these devices offer you one of the best free ways to chat, from talking to other drivers to pass the time to gaining real-time highway information.
While they may not be as popular today as they once were, CB radios remain a saturated market and a trademark tool for truckers, especially American ones. As such, truckers are all too aware of the dreaded problem of choice. With several options to choose from, it's difficult for truckers to find the best CB radio that suits their specific preferences. Therefore, we outline some of the best CB radios in the market today and a comprehensive guide on things to consider in selecting one.
Get the best-advanced features and a unique, modern design in the Bearcat 880 SSB CB radio. The first thing that stands out in this CB radio is its large color-changing LCD making it easy to see when driving. However, there is so much more to it than the stylish display.
Selecting this CB radio exposes you to a full 40-channel frequency and instant nine-channel for emergencies. The Bearcat 980 SSB has a signal power indicator that can provide significant transmission strength for better communication clarity. It also brandishes an external speaker jack for you to connect external devices. This feature provides you with better sound quality and ensures you can convert the radio to an external PA speaker if the need arises.
Some other advanced features of the Bearcat 880 SSB radio include a state-of-the-art noise canceling mic, NOAA weather alert, an automatic noise limiter, and an integrated SWR meter, among other features packed in a more innovative, more compact case. The size also makes it easier to handle and install, especially if your truck's space is at a premium.
All in all, the Bearcat 880 SSB CB radio is a quality device to have as a trucker. The display is colorful, pleasant, and fun to play around with. Pair this up with its SWR and scanning features, and you have a CB radio that can address all your communication needs and more.
Pros
It has a compact design.
Pretty cost-effective.
Features a dynamic squelch control.
Cons
There are not any cons we could find with this system. From visibility to sound quality this is an excellent machine.
It's been sometime now since the CB community took notice of the President MCKINLEY SSB radio. Yet, we remain in awe of some of the exciting and novel features this sleek-looking CB radio offers. Don't let the appearance fool you, though, as it represents one of the most rugged SSB CB radios today.
The MCKINLEY SSB radio features an adjustable volume with all 40 channels and a multi-function display that offers top-level clarity. As a trucker, you know all too well how vital weather reports are in your daily operation. That said, this CB radio addresses this need with its impressive up-to-date weather alerts on changing weather conditions that could potentially affect driving.
We should also mention MCKINLEY's unique HI-cut feature that effectively eliminates any form of static in the receiver circuit. Truckers are exposed to other impressive elements, including an LCD with three color options, 40 AM and 80 SSB channels, a built-in SWR meter, automatic/ manual squelch, an external Vox microphone jack, and a memory channel.
If you need a rugged and efficient SSB radio, you should get the MCKINLEY. In truth, its new technology and frequency stability might make it quite popular among younger CB users. That notwithstanding, its size and mounting options make it ideal for every modern vehicle and stable enough to make even the most hardcore trucker happy.
Pros
Simple to set up and operate
Offers top-level clarity
Good microphone communication
Cons
It is quite expensive
It is not so compact
Galaxy is one of the most prominent names in the CB radio market with its durable and easy-to-use selection of SSB radio. And the Galaxy-DX-959 serves all intents and purposes as a feature-packed CB radio with exceptional performance.
The Galaxy-DX-959 40 Channel CB radio has been around for a while, and over time, it has garnered massive followership across the CB community. Looking up close at the radio, you can't help but notice a rich selection of unique features. The Galaxy-DX-959 40 Channel radio offers a novel volume and squelch combo nob, as well as the mic, RF gain, variable talkback, and clarifier control. It also incorporates a large meter for more accurate reading – a feature peculiar across all Galaxy CB radios.
You can explore its multi-functional meter that incorporates a signal measure, power output modulation, and a built-in SWR meter. The SWR meter is calibrated automatically, ensuring you don't have to set it before taking readings. The Galaxy-DX-959 40 Channel radio features a sideband, ensuring you enjoy long-distance communication if the need arises.
The Galaxy-DX-959 40 Channel CB radio excels in every department, from being a sensitive receiver to fostering clear transmission with good modulation. It is an excellent radio with just about every feature you could hope for.
Pros
Full Illuminated LED Display on the front
Features an RF gain
It provides very clear transmission with good modulation
Cons
The frequency counter doesn’t perform well with SSB
Fresh from THE PRESIDENT's brand is the Lincoln II, a new and improved CB radio that serves as a successor to the original President Lincoln. It might have taken a significant period for President to replace the Lincoln; however, the Lincoln II is undoubtedly a feature-filled radio, with functions designed for more serious operators.
The President Lincoln II CB radio features a sleeker and slimmer size than its predecessor and allows you to change the background color between three options. Another quality addition is the automatic squelch control, capable of instantly suppressing unwanted background noise even if the squelch control is down.
The Lincoln II has all the necessary features required for your long-haul trip. Firstly, it incorporates a 12-meter band which you can choose from, an adjustable RF control for better receiver sensitivity, and a long front mount microphone for your convenience. It's also worth noting the radio's noise-limiting feature that reduces noise and statics from internal and external sources.
President Lincoln II CB radio is well and truly one of the best options if you're in the market for a device with easy navigation, clear transmission, and great reception. The radio's build quality is superb, and it's great if you often switch from CB bands to free bands and HAM bands.
Pros
It has a very good build quality
Features a front-mount microphone
Automatic squelch control
Cons
The reception is pretty average compared to other alternatives
It’s pretty expensive
Why Use A CB Radio
With the advent of technology, we can forgive whoever thought mobile phones would wipe out CB radios. However, we might never see the era where these radios are wiped out entirely due to one simple factor – they are free.
CB radios have also been a tested and efficient communication form for many years, allowing drivers to talk about weather conditions, accidents, inspections, and other road conditions. On the other hand, local drivers view CB radios as one of the easiest ways for hands-free communication with dispatch.
Alongside truckers, hunters, boaters, and other outdoor people employ CB radios to communicate in areas without quality cell service.
Features To Look For In A CB Radio
For years now, CB radios have hardly changed technology-wise. However, modern features are built into some new releases. Selecting a CB radio depends on your specific needs; for instance, heavy users mostly opt for high-grade CB radios with many features compared to casual users.
That said, there are still some attributes to look out for before opting for before purchasing one. Typically, the radio size is a significant consideration. Going for large units will require a mounting kit and enough space to accommodate it and keep it cool. Smaller units can be mounted anywhere in your truck.
In your quest to select the best CB radio, you should remember to check the power output. The industry standard set by the FCC is four watts, which serves to limit transmission power. That said, all CB radios rated over four watts have been illegally boosted and could result in a fine.
As with so many devices, CB radios also come in a wide range of prices depending on their functionality. Typically, smaller, less sophisticated units cost around $40, and high-grade ones cost about $300; however, they all have the same transmission power.
The built-in components determine the price tag of a CB radio. Most long-haul truck drivers opt for high-end radios because of their range of features. They also offer better reception and clarity, making communication clearer and less static.
Some basic features include:
Squelch
RF Gain
Automatic Noise Reduction
Weather Information
Channel Scanning
Single Side Band
PA System Capabilities
The connection between truckers and CB radios is pretty apparent. And for those drivers looking to invest in one, we hope this guide helps you decide when selecting a CB radio for your short and long-haul trips. Remember, a CB radio is necessary for your vehicle, and whichever you choose should best suit your preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Far Can A CB Radio Transmit?
The transmission distance of a CB radio depends on the antenna and terrain. Typically, most CB radios have an average transmission range of about 4 or 5 miles. However, some high-grade radios are capable of transmitting over 20 miles.
Is It Hard To Set Up A CB Radio?
Not exactly. CB radios come with a user manual that makes it easier to set it up. However, if this is your first time using one, it might be best to contact a professional to help with the installation.
What Is The Ideal Antenna For My CB Radio?
The antenna used for your CB radio depends on the range you wish to transmit. Today, there are different types of antennas in the market; nonetheless, whichever you choose should be compatible with your CB radio.