10 Best Long Distance Cb Radio 2026 in the United States

The Uniden BearTracker 885 is a versatile CB radio that stands out by combining traditional CB functions with a digital scanner for police, fire, ambulance, and DOT channels across the US and Canada. With 40 CB channels and a standard 4-watt power output, it meets the legal transmission limits and should provide decent long-distance communication when paired with a good antenna. This radio’s frequency range is broad, allowing it to pick up various signals beyond CB channels, making it valuable for users wanting to stay informed about local safety alerts. The included BearTracker Warning System and GPS automatically tune to nearby public safety channels, which is a handy feature if you need real-time updates on emergencies while on the road. It also offers NOAA weather channels with alerts, which is useful for travelers and drivers who need weather updates on the go.

Noise control features like RF Gain and an ergonomic noise-cancelling microphone help improve voice clarity, especially in noisy environments like truck cabs. There’s a built-in SWR meter to help tune your antenna for better performance, which is important for maximizing signal quality and range. However, the device is not water-resistant, so it may not be ideal for outdoor use in harsh weather conditions without extra protection. The screen is colorful and easy to read, but the unit size is somewhat bulky, which might be a consideration for smaller vehicle dashboards. The radio supports channel scanning and simultaneous monitoring of scanner and CB channels, which is convenient for multitasking.

This model is particularly well suited for drivers, such as truckers or off-roaders, who want a reliable CB radio combined with emergency scanner capabilities to stay connected and informed on the road. While it offers many features suited for long-distance CB users, beginners might find some functions complex at first.

The Galaxy DX-959G Mobile CB Radio is designed for users seeking reliable long-distance communication. The five-digit frequency counter and two-digit channel display, both with large LED digits, make it easy to see the settings even in low light. The backlit StarLite faceplate in blue or red enhances visibility during day or night use. This radio offers a robust frequency range with a powerful receiver circuit that can pick up weak signals, performing comparably to high-end amateur radios.

The variable power output control allows you to adjust the transmission power, which is useful for managing battery life and signal strength. Additionally, the variable talkback circuit, automatic SWR circuit, and SWR alert LED help maintain optimal performance and signal clarity. The Galaxy Noise Filter (GNF) circuit is particularly beneficial in reducing background noise to enhance weak signal reception, which is crucial for long-distance communication.

However, the product lacks water resistance, which may be a concern for outdoor or all-weather use. It also does not include weather channels, which are often useful for staying updated on weather conditions during long-distance travels. The radio includes 40 channels, which is standard but does not offer any advanced scanning features. Weighing 4.4 pounds, it is relatively heavy for a mobile unit. This Galaxy CB Radio is a solid choice for users who prioritize signal clarity and visibility but may not be ideal for those needing weather updates or in rugged, outdoor conditions.

The Uniden BEARCAT 980 40-Channel SSB CB Radio is designed for staying connected over long distances, making it ideal for truckers or anyone with extended road trips. It supports a wide frequency range from 26.965 MHz to 27.405 MHz and offers a decent talking range of up to 10 miles, ensuring you can communicate effectively over considerable distances.

The 40 channels, including access to emergency channel 9 and NOAA weather channels, enhance its versatility for various communication needs and weather updates. The large, easy-to-read 7-color digital display and illuminated control panel make it user-friendly even in low-light conditions. Additionally, the noise-canceling microphone is a significant plus, ensuring crystal-clear communication by reducing background noise.

This model is also compatible with wireless microphones, adding flexibility to its use. However, it's worth noting that the Uniden BEARCAT 980 is not water-resistant, which could be a drawback for those exposed to harsh weather conditions. The device is relatively lightweight at 3.89 pounds and compact, making it easy to install and handle. The Uniden BEARCAT 980 is a solid choice for those needing a reliable, feature-rich CB radio for long-distance communication, as long as you can avoid exposure to wet environments.