Best Handheld CB Radios

Review & Comparison, Last Update November 16, 2024
Despite the loss in popularity, a handheld CB radio is still the best solution for truckers, off-roaders, RV owners, motorcyclists, and all kinds of hobbyists that require instant and reliable means of communication. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Power
Range
Sensitivity
Modulation
Number of Channels
Control
Power Source
Features
Warranty
 
PROS

The NOAA weather monitor allows you to monitor up to 10 channels for weather and hazard information in your area. It also offers you immediate access to emergency channel 9 and informational channel 19. The model includes a flexible antenna with a BNC connector that you can remove for easy transportation. 

CONS

The symbols on the keys wear off after some time. 

OUR VERDICT

The Midland 75-822 is the kind of handheld CB radio that incorporates every trick in the book in order to help you on your travels. Its audio quality is superb and the number of features will not disappoint even the most demanding customers.

detailed parameters
Power

4 W

Range

~1-3 miles

Sensitivity

0.7 µV for 20 dB (S+N)/N

Modulation

AM

Number of Channels

40

Control

LCD screen with mechanical buttons

Power Source

6 AA batteries, 8 rechargeable batteries, 12V DC, 110V AC

Features

NOAA weather monitor (10 channels), Squelch control, Built-in ANL, Keypad lock, Dual channel monitor, Last channel memory, Headset jack (sold separately), External antenna connector (located at DC adapter), Belt clip

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The built-in NOAA weather radio will notify you in time of storms and other emergencies. The Soundtracker® system filters out 90% of noise, so communication is always clear and free from interference.

CONS

The battery power is somewhat low on the transmit, but it doesn't impact the listening.

OUR VERDICT

The Cobra HHRT50 is packed with features, including a 12V charging cord, removable belt clip, and wrist strap, so you're always ready to go. Thanks to the magnetic antenna, you can also control this portable radio from your car.

detailed parameters
Power

4 W

Range

Up to 4 miles

Sensitivity

Less than 1 µV for 12 dB (S+N)/N

Modulation

AM

Number of Channels

40

Control

LCD screen with mechanical buttons

Power Source

9 AA batteries, 12V DC

Features

Magnetic mount antenna, Soundtracker® system, Built-in NOAA weather & emergency radio, Dual watch, Omni-directional microphone, Dual channel operation, Belt clip, Strap

Warranty

2 years limited

PROS

A small size provides portability and convenience. A stiff build ensures a long unit life. 300 programmable channels are great for a comprehensive use. The unit can be powered by different sources and charged via a conventional USB port.

CONS

The radio exhausts AA batteries in about 10 hours. 

OUR VERDICT

The Uniden BC75XLT is a device that makes an impression due to its advanced abilities. Monitor a vast amount of service channels and program up to 300 channels under your priority in a single CB radio!

detailed parameters
Power

280 mA

Range

~1-8 miles

Sensitivity

AM: 0.3 µV, NFM: 0.3 µV for 12 dB (S+N)/N

Modulation

AM/NFM

Number of Channels

300

Control

LCD screen with mechanical buttons

Power Source

2 AA alkaline batteries, 2 AA rechargeable batteries, PC through USB cable

Features

Close Call RF Capture technology, Backlit display, 10 pre-programmed service searches, 10 custom search ranges, ChannelPriority feature with Do-Not-Disturb, Temporary lockout

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The data cloning feature can be used to transfer the programmed data from one WS1010 to another. The memory backup function stores frequencies for an extended period of time even without batteries. The model allows you to backup data, update the database, and program the instrument directly from a computer.

CONS

The DC adaptor is not included.

OUR VERDICT

The handheld CB radio in question offers the convenience of one-touch searches of marine, fire/police, air, ham, and weather frequencies. Its 200-channel memory will offer you plenty of memory space to store all of your favorite frequencies.

detailed parameters
Power

Not specified

Range

~1-3 miles

Sensitivity

1 µV for 20 dB (S+N)/N

Modulation

VHF/UHF

Number of Channels

200

Control

LCD screen with mechanical buttons

Power Source

4 AA batteries, 4 rechargeable batteries, 110V AC

Features

Data cloning feature, Lock-out function, Memory backup, SAME and all hazards weather alerting, Spectrum sweeper, Priority channel feature, Belt clip

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The built-in ceramic filter provides greater selectivity and reduces the interference from adjacent channels. The AGC (automatic gain control) will keep the sound at a constant level, boosting the reliability of this handheld radio.

CONS

The antenna needs upgrading.

OUR VERDICT

The Uniden PRO401HH portable CB radio will keep you connected in any situation, whether you are traveling on foot, by car, bike, or truck. The low power setting will save battery power when the radio is idle, and the high power switch will increase the communication range if necessary.

detailed parameters
Power

4 W

Range

~1-2 miles

Sensitivity

0.5 μV for 10 dB; (S + N)/N typical (limit 1.0 μV)

Modulation

AM

Number of Channels

40

Control

LCD screen with mechanical buttons

Power Source

9 AA Ni-MH rechargeable batteries, 9 AA batteries, 12V DC

Features

NOAA weather alerts, Phase locked loop (PLL) synthesizer, Ceramic filter, AGC (Automatic gain control), Automatic modulation control, Automatic noise limiter, Speaker and MIC jack, Internal battery select switch

Warranty

1 year limited

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Midland 75-822

A Handful of Features

The Midland 75-822 is the sort of portable CB radio that effortlessly includes just about every necessary feature in a pretty convenient package. First off, there's the NOAA weather monitor that allows you to monitor up to 10 channels for weather and hazard information in your area. It also offers you immediate access to emergency channel 9 and informational channel 19. Of course, you wouldn't want to spend the bulk of your time on the emergency channel but you also wouldn't want to miss an emergency signal, so the manufacturers made sure to include a dual-channel monitor feature. Surprisingly enough, the said feature will allow you to monitor the emergency channel and any channel of your choice at the same time.

Other than that, what we have here is a pretty standard handheld CB radio. The fairly large LCD display features backlighting, so you should be able to read it during the night. The model also includes a flexible antenna with a BNC connector that you can remove for easy transportation. Finally, the radio is no slouch when it comes to audio quality either. A built-in Automatic Noise Limiter does wonders in terms of improving reception for weaker signals, while the squelch control feature eliminates the background noise from the equation.

All in all, the Midland 75-822 is the kind of handheld CB radio that incorporates every trick in the book in order to help you on your travels. Its audio quality is superb and the number of features will not disappoint even the most demanding customers.

Review of Midland 75-822 40 Channel CB-Way Radio

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $99.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00000K2YR

What customers say about this product

Features

More than adequate battery life. I did 2 day-long trips before I was tempted - not forced - to change batteries.

Transmitter

Adequate range on alkaline battery power and stubby antenna.

Receiver

Startling clarity. A fellow 4 wheeler asked me what unit I was using, that he wanted to buy one for a backup / handheld.

Key Specs

This radio is fantastic. I got this unit as a backup to my base unit mounted in my truck, but now find myself using this little guy more. With all of its features like dual channel monioring and a scan with adjustable sensitivity, this radio truly is my new favorite.
 

Cobra HHRT50

Your Reliable Assistant

If you need a functional and versatile CB radio, great news: the Cobra HHRT50 does all that, plus gives you the weather and sound tracking. Let’s take a closer look at what makes it indispensable for truckers, bikers, RV owners, and various hobbyists.

To begin with, this handheld radio has a magnetic mount mobile antenna. This means that you can mount it on the car/van roof – and be sure it stays there during the ride. The antenna has good coverage, which is nice to know for RV drivers.

Now the static or interference won’t stop you from getting the important info. This CB radio comes with the sound tracking system that cuts 90% of noise. Finally you can have the clear and audible communication while on the move.

Not sure about the weather? Where smartphones can lose connection, the Cobra shines with the instant access to 10 NOAA channels. If a storm, tornado, or other emergency is coming your way, you’ll be the first to know at any time of day or night.

What’s more, there is an option to monitor 2 channels at once. Gather important alerts without the constant switching, always staying in the know. The full range gives you as many as 40 channels to monitor.

The Cobra includes a handy 12V recharging jack. Yes, the battery power is somewhat low on the transmit, but this doesn’t impact the listening. Also featured are a removable belt and a wrist strap for travelers.

All in all, this multifunctional CB radio is pure gold if you’re driving, hiking, or camping in remote or weather adverse regions.

Review of Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip Cb Radio

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B0794H67JP

 

Uniden BC75XLT

Mobile Solution for Every Occasion

The Uniden BC75XLT is a versatile handheld CB radio designed for communication and monitoring various channels. This device is universal in everything, from transceiving to the power supply. So, let's take a closer look at its key features. 

The Uniden BC75XLT can be powered by AA batteries or rechargeable Ni-MH accumulators as well as from PC via a USB cable. The radio can handle signals in AM and NFM modulation types, what definitely stands it apart from most other models with the same price tag. 

The Uniden CB radio can also memorize up to 300 channels. Astonishing, isn't it? What's more, all channels can be configured in PC, introducing to you new opportunities and giving more comfort of use. Using the radio, you can monitor police and fire departments (including rescue and paramedics), marine and amateur (ham radio) bands, and even air band transmissions. In addition, you'll be able to get weather forecasts from the NOAA weather center.

When it comes to the Uniden BC75XLT, we can say that the engineers have designed this radio with practicality in mind and considered a lot of factors. First of all, the manufacturer provided excellent radio rigidity and high protection level and yet, didn't make a lot of change to the interface, leaving it pretty handy. 

The unit is fitted with a large and readable display with orange backlighting so that it is comfortable to read the data from it even in complete darkness. The control buttons are marked with distinct abbreviations that will help you grasp the settings quickly.

Review of Uniden BC75XLT Handheld Scanner CB Radio

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $168.46
Stock In stock
ASIN B00A1VSO9M

 

Whistler WS1010

Program the Radio

The Whistler WS1010 is a handheld CB radio that is defined by a number of crucial features. These features make the product a great option for the kind of customers who aren't new to these instruments and know exactly what they're looking for. For instance, there's the data cloning feature that can be used to transfer the programmed data from one WS1010 to another. There's also the memory backup function that stores frequencies for an extended period of time even without batteries. By the way, speaking of the programmed data, what's particularly impressive about this battery-powered radio is that it provides the user with the opportunity to backup data, update the database, and program the instrument directly from a computer.

Aside from these features, the Whistler WS1010 is also one of the more powerful options on the market. Its 200-channel memory will offer you plenty of memory space to store all of your favorite frequencies. You can use it to listen to FM radio bands. Plus, you can categorize those frequencies into 10 separate memory banks. Naturally, the model also includes the SAME and all hazards weather alerting. However, it also incorporates a dedicated Skywarn button for storm watchers. The manufacturers also didn't forget about the usual set of convenience features, like lock-out function, spectrum sweeper, or priority channel feature.

Having said all of that, some could certainly make an argument that the best thing about this handheld CB radio is that it offers the convenience of one-touch searches of marine, fire/police, air, ham, and weather frequencies.

Review of Whistler WS1010 Analog Handheld Scanner

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $139.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00IID3O72

 

Uniden PRO401HH

High Power & Range

Get the latest info about the weather and emergencies with the reliable Uniden CB radio. It’s compact, has a solid battery life, and protects you on the car or hiking trips to remote areas.

The boosted range of this handheld radio makes it easier to receive updates while you’re out there in the open. Unlike the mobile phones that can lose connection, this classic device can support you all along your car or hiking route.

This CB radio is designed for your ultimate comfort. The integrated ceramic filter boosts the selectivity and reduces unwanted interference. And the automatic gain control keeps the sound at a constant level.

The Uniden features 2 battery settings. The low power one allows your device to work for longer periods of time, while the high power one is meant to further extend the range. Goes to show that this versatile device is actually fit for different circumstances. The only issue to mention is that the antenna could be stronger and needs updating.

As for the citizens band frequencies, this radio can operate on any frequency out of the 40 that are available and authorized. Make sure that you always stay in touch with this practical device. Camping, hunting, biking, or driving, the Uniden is good for any outdoor activity.

To sum up, this handheld radio is both reliable and versatile, protecting you from the lost connection and giving you emergency alerts. Get one for yourself – or make it a surprise gift to an outdoor enthusiast.

Review of Uniden PRO401HH Professional Series 40 Channel Handheld CB Radio

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00N43KM5S

 

Infographics

Comparison of Handheld CB Radios

What Is a Handheld CB Radio?

A handheld CB radio, just like any other citizen band radio, is essentially an instrument that presents a system of short-distance radio communications between individuals. The difference between it and other types of radio services is that it does not require a license. However, dissimilar to amateur radio, it can also be used for business or personal communications. When you go looking for a tool like that, the things you ought to keep in mind basically fall under one of the two categories - technical specifications or convenience features. The first one includes the power of the handheld CB radio, its operation range, sensitivity, and modulation. All of those also determine the number of channels in the channel memory that the particular model is capable of offering. As for features, most models include an LCD display with backlighting, a few features that help in terms of audio quality, a keypad lock, the ability to monitor weather channels, and a priority channel feature.

Now, while we're still on the subject of vehicle electronics, you might want to look into our reviews of car speakers or parking sensors to make your driving or parking experience that much more comfortable and enjoyable.

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Publish Date: 2018-07-09 14:27:33