You Don’t Need to be a Trucker to Enjoy The Top CB Radios
Even with the rise of cell phones, a good CB radio is a quality investment for times you’re out of cell phone service. They provide a reliable mode of communication for truck drivers and groups road-tripping or off-roading through rural areas.
First created in 1945 by the FCC, CB radio stands for Citizens Band radio. They are powerful, reliable, cost-effective, and don’t require any special training or licenses to operate. These radios use 40 channels, with some channels used for specific purposes. For example, truckers use Channel 19 for general communication. CB radios have more power than an FRS radio, but they’re still only meant for short-distance communication.
Looking at all the options on the market can be quite confusing if you don’t understand radios. If you’ve been dreaming of getting involved in some of the conversations, we’ll help you find the best CB radio with our top ten choices.
How to Use a CB Radio
These radios work through radio waves, just like the VHF radios, televisions, and AM/FM radios. Each one comes with a long antenna, usually ranging from 2 to 7 feet, which should be mounted as tall as possible (without whacking overhead obstacles like trees and overpasses) with the most ground plane coverage possible. This antenna catches the signals and then broadcasts them through your CB speakers.
The CB itself is a transceiver. That means it’s used to transmit and receive messages. If you want to talk, you’ll hold the microphone up, press the button, and talk. That message is converted to an electric signal and transmitted through your antenna. As it travels through the air via radio waves, other CB antennas in the area pick up the signal and hear your message.
Uses of a CB Radio
People use a CB radio for many purposes when a regular cell phone just won’t do. Here are the most common reasons to own a radio like this:
- Get weather, travel, and traffic updates while on the road.
- Report an emergency.
- Talking with other friends traveling in other vehicles nearby.
- Communicating in areas without cell phone service.
CB radios are very useful for communicating in areas without cell phone service. This can come in especially handy when off-roading with your buddies. Since a CB radio doesn’t require any cell phone signals, you’ll still be free to communicate with your fellow off-roaders about your location, when you need a tow, and when it’s time to take a break for lunch.
Whether you’re a trucker looking for the best CB radio, or looking for a backcountry option for your overland rig, we’ve evaluated all the best CB radio options available and found ten of the best choices to consider.
Keyword: 10 Best CB Radios For Your Vehicle [Buying Guide]