CB radios have long been a mainstay among professional truck drivers. But they are currently experiencing something of a comeback among amateur users.
Citizens' Band (CB) radio rose to fame after World War II, but its popularity peaked during the 1970s for the general public. Yet, few technologies are as reliable for long-distance communications.
These transceivers come in a wide range of sizes and bands. Advancements in communication technologies also have enabled innovations like LCD and remote operation.
Here, you can find the five best CB radios for pickup trucks, followed by a buyer’s guide.
| EDITOR'S CHOICE | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Midland 78 Pro Multi |
MOONRAKER MINOR II |
MIDLAND 88 |
TTI TCB-1100 |
PRESIDENT MCKINLEY |
|
| Price | 39,95 | 59,99 | 159,95 | 129,95 | 229,99 |
| Channels | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 | 80 |
| Size | 153x50x185 mm | 115x150x38mm | 188x77x57mm | 190x175x58mm | 170x150x52mm |
| Bands | AM/FM | AM/FM | AM/FM | AM/FM | AM/FM |
| Voltage | 12V | 12V/24V | 12V/24V | 12V/24V | 12V/24V |
| RF Gain | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Auto Squelch | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Country | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Signal Meter | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dual watch | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Output | 4 Watt | 4 Watt | 4 Watt | 4 Watt | 4 Watt |
| LCD Display | Yes | Yes | Multicolour | Yes | Yes |
| Up/Down Mike | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VOX Mike | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| VIEW PRODUCT | VIEW PRODUCT | VIEW PRODUCT | VIEW PRODUCT | VIEW PRODUCT |
1. MIDLAND 78 PRO MULTI CHANNEL WITH AM/FM,12V CB RADIO
The Midland 78 Pro, an entry-level CB that offers a range of great features packaged in an easy to use and compact chassis. The Midland 78 Pro is 12V operation
SPECIFICATIONS
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Multiband CB (incorporates 40 UK/40EU channels plus other European and North American frequency bands)
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"Scan" function
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Large backlit LCD Display
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12 Volt Power Supply
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150mm x 45mm x 175mm
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1020 grams
PROS
- The Midland 78 pro is one of the cheapest CB radios we carry but comes with excellent features. You won't find a better value for its low cost. Plus, with nine programmable bands and a high-quality VOX function , you can stay in contact no matter where your travels take you.
CONS
- Whilst the Midland 78 pro delivers excellent value, its price means that several other models' have higher specifications and a better LCD screen. It also only operates 12 Volts power supply, compared to the 12/24 Volts of the other models.
2. Moonraker Minor II CB Radio Transmitter
Moonraker's most popular model is an excellent CB radio in the lower price bracket. Its compact size and weight make it an excellent option, and it remains one of our best-selling models.
SPECIFICATIONS
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Power capacity of 4W for both AM and FM
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A frequency range between 26.965-27.405 and 27.60125-27.99125 MHz
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80 FM channels
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38mm x 115mm x 150mm
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800 grams
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12/24 Volt power supply
PROS
- The Minor II is a popular and easily accessible CB radio for those new to the game. It is also the smallest on our list, perfect for those tight spaces. Its 800 grams makes it far lighter than most other models, giving the whole thing a smartly compact look.
CONS
- As with the other low-cost option here, the Intek M-899, the Minor II doesn’t have the same functionality as some more expensive units and comes with a small LCD screen. The small compact size will be perfect for some, but it might not be enough for others who prefer their CB radios bulkier and with more functionality.
3. Midland 88 Universal Mounted Mobile CB Transceiver
The Midland M88 is a versatile and sleek-looking CB radio that you can easily mount on any surface. This model merges the best of two worlds: high-end specifications and a compact design.
SPECIFICATIONS
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AM/FM
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3 different supports: a fixed bracket, a DIN bracket, and a suction cup mount.
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12/24 Volt power supply
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Wide colour TFT display
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Automatic digital squelch adjustable on several levels
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188mm x77mm x 57mm
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670 grams
PROS
- The Midland 88 has long been Moonraker's best-looking CB radio, and we won't argue with that. Its slim size, just 77mm, means you can easily install it in even the smallest spaces. And with the three attachment options, you can easily hang it on the windshield or fix it to the dashboard to suit your own needs.
CONS
- This CB radio raises the quality level — and that comes at a cost. Still, Midland is a reputable brand that has been a favourite among truck drivers. If you’re willing to pay for higher quality, this is a superb option.
4. TTI TCB-1100 Evo Multi-Standard CB Radio With Front Speaker
TTI’s flagship multiband CB radio is a bigger hitter that won't disappoint. With seven different display colours, LED backlighting, and significantly improved VOX function, it's not hard to see why it's such a popular model.
SPECIFICATIONS
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AM/FM
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7 display colours
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Full multiband radio
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12/24 V power supply
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PA function with the PA jack on the backside
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A frequency range between 25.56 and 28 MHz
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LED backlighting on the LCD and keys
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190 mm x 165 mm x 58 mm
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978.5 gram
PROS
- At first look, you might think that the TCB-1100 appears to be a whole lot more than just a CB radio. Its casing is sturdy and of excellent quality, with a large LCD screen and changeable backlighting. You also can mount it in several ways, which makes installation a breeze.
CONS
- This CB radio is on the higher end, which means the quality comes at a cost. As with the Midland 88, this is undoubtedly a step up in price and functionality. It’s not the sort of radio that you would mess around with now and again. The TCB-1100 Evo is for more experienced users or those looking for a high level of functionality.
5. AM-FM-SSB McKinley CB Radio Transceiver by President
Known for their high-quality models, President has delivered yet another outstanding model with their President McKinley CB radio.
SPECIFICATIONS
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40 channels AM / FM / LSB / USB / (CEPT) FM / UK FM
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Manual squelch and ASC
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12/24 V power supply
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Multi-function LCD display
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Hands-free VOX function
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5 memory channels and memory scan
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170 mm x 150 mm x 52 mm
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1100 grams
PROS
- If you're looking for one of the finest CB radios, look no further. The President McKinley is an outstanding radio that manages to cover all bases. It offers excellent sound quality and sensitivity and comes packed with enough features to keep you occupied for some time.
CONS
- Price and size are our only points of contention for this powerhouse CB radio. It is the highest-priced radio on our list by some distance, but you certainly get what you pay for in performance. It's also not the smallest or lightest CB around and can seem quite bulky in a small cabin compared with other models.
What You Should Know Before Buying a CB Radio for a Pickup Truck
If you're looking to purchase your first CB radio for a pickup truck, there are a few things to bear in mind before making your purchase.
Price Doesn't Equal Range
It can be easy for those new to the CB game to make some hasty conclusions when seeing significant price differences between models. Many assume that if you spend more, you'll be able to reach a better range, but that's not the case.
In general, increasing the wattage allows for greater range. However, Ofcom in the UK regulates CB radios and passed legislation limiting the maximum power output to 4 watts. Anything above that, including through the use of boosters, is illegal.
The limited power output means that the maximum range doesn't change whether you spend £50 or £250.
Price differences are usually down to the specific features included within the CB, such as VOX features, greater sound clarity, or better LCD screens.
Antennas Are Everything
The antenna is all-important for range and clarity. Without a good antenna attached to the right place, your CB radio won't get you very far.
The maths are pretty simple for antennas — the higher, the better. However, you also need to have them low enough that they won't get caught on overhanging trees or as you pass through tunnels.
The best place to fix your antenna is in the centre of your truck roof. You also can mount it on side mirrors, bumpers, and elsewhere on your truck, but be cautious that it does not stick out too far and risk collision with other vehicles or objects.
Mounts Let You Maximise Even the Smallest Cabins
You can mount CB radios in several ways inside the cabin, depending on your personal preference and the space available.
Many prefer to use DIN mounts secured below the dashboard. Another option is to use suction cups that attach to the windshield, a suitable method for smaller models.
Conclusion
As we mentioned earlier, CB radios are experiencing a renaissance. With innovations that have led to smaller transceivers and more features, they are quickly becoming an excellent short-range radio for professional truck drivers and amateur users alike.
If you’re shopping for a CB radio, perhaps a good place to start is whether you need it for commercial or recreational use. Prices can vary greatly, and whilst that won't affect the radio's maximum range, high costs mean better sound quality, sturdier builds, and better features.
At Moonraker, we are one of the leading suppliers of CB radio transceivers, transmitters, and accessories. Browse our shop and discover all our fantastic CB radio options today.
For more information please visit our online store or alternatively contact us and our team will be happy to assist you.