CB Radio Guide for Vehicles

There are a few important factors to understand when it comes to choosing a CB radio that's right for you. Transmission power, common features and intended use are the most important factors to understand when deciding on a CB radio.



Transmission Power

When it comes to transmission power, it's important to understand that all CB radios have exactly the same transmission power. Subsequently, a cheap $40 base CB will provide exactly the same amount of transmission wattage (i.e. think power) as a CB radio that costs three times as much. The more expensive radio will likely have a number of additional features and most likely have a higher build quality, but the radio's power will be exactly the same. As the power for CB radios is capped at 4 watts by the FCC, the largest determinant of CB radio performance is the antenna. Please see one of my other lenses for details on selecting and installing a CB antenna.



Specific Vehicle Considerations

Once you understand all CB radios have the same output power, choosing a radio comes down picking a unit with the right features for your needs. Different vehicle owners tend to choose different radios as each class has unique needs and requirements:

Truckers - Truckers usually go with full-bodied, feature packed CB radios as they depend on their radio for continual updates and communication with other drivers while on the road. The Cobra 29 LTD series of radios is very popular with truckers.

Jeeps - Due to space constraints within the cab, Jeep and offroad vehicle owners usually pick compact CB radios for their vehicles. The Cobra 75 WX ST CB and the Uniden 510XL CB radios are both popular with Jeeps due to their compact size and ruggedness.

RVs - RVs tend to have plenty of space for larger CB radios. Most RV specific radios include a front panel speaker to allow for convenient in-dash installation and include access to weather channels for updates on the road.



Understanding Common Features

Squelch Control - Sets the point at which the CB radio outputs a signal. This feature keeps the radio from playing static over the speaker and only outputs a signal when a transmission comes across the airwaves.

Public Address System - Used with a compatible public address horn, this feature allows the CB radio and microphone to be used as a public address system.

RF Gain - This feature allows the CB operator to filter the CB signal based on signal strength. It can be used to block overpowering signals as well as pull-in faint signals to hear them better.

Automatic Noise Limited - Helps to improve signal quality by filtering out engine noise and other interference.

Weather Updates - Access to NOAA weather updates for real-time weather information, alerts and warnings.

Instant Channel - Allows the CB operator to jump instantly to Channel 9 (Emergency Services) and Channel 19 (Highway/Truckers Channel) via a single button.

Backlit Display - When using a CB radio at night, a backlit display can be extremely helpful. Many higher-end CB radios have a backlit display to make night operations safe and easy.



Making the Decision

Understanding the previously discussed features and considerations will greatly assist you in selecting a CB radio of your own. Regarding brands, Cobra is the most well-known and popular CB manufacturer. Uniden, Galaxy and Midland are also well respected CB radios that you should consider.

Remember to consider your vehicle, the radio's size and what features are important to you and you'll be able to select a CB radio that perfectly fits your needs. For help selecting a CB antenna, please see my other lens related to CB antenna selection and installation.