When it comes to Jeep CB radios, there are several things to consider before purchasing. The first thing to consider is the range of the radio. The content of a CB radio depends on several factors, including the terrain, weather conditions, and the radio’s power output. Another essential factor to consider is the size of the radio. A compact CB radio is ideal for Jeeps, as it won’t take up too much space.
We spent countless hours researching and testing ten Jeep CB radios to identify the ones that offer the best features and performance. Our goal was to find CB radios that were easy to install, had a decent range, and offered useful features like weather alerts and noise-canceling. After testing various models, we have identified the five best Jeep CB radios worth considering for your next off-road adventure.
Best Jeep CB Radios
We have researched and tested various Jeep CB radios to bring you the best options available on Amazon. CB radios are essential for off-road adventures and can help you stay connected with friends and family while exploring the great outdoors. Our list includes CB radios that offer clear communication, durable construction, and easy installation. Check out our top picks below and choose the best fit your needs.
Table of Contents
Uniden BEARCAT 980 SSB CB Radio
If you’re looking for a reliable CB radio to stay connected while on the road, the Uniden BEARCAT 980 SSB CB Radio is a great option.
Pros
- The large, easy-to-read display and channel selection make it easy to use in all lighting conditions.
- The noise-canceling microphone reduces background noise for crystal-clear communication.
- The integrated SWR gives perfect antenna matching, making it compatible with the Uniden BC906W CB Wireless Microphone.
Cons
- The product is discontinued by the manufacturer, which may make it difficult to find replacement parts or accessories.
- The radio is not water-resistant, which could be an issue for those driving in wet conditions.
- The product-specific batteries required may be an additional expense for some users.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the Uniden BEARCAT 980 SSB CB Radio and were impressed with its performance. The orange display is easy to read, even in bright sunlight, and the laser-etched keys make it easy to select the desired channel. We appreciated the noise-cancelling microphone, which made communicating with other drivers easy without interference from background noise.
One potential downside is that the product is discontinued by the manufacturer, which may make it difficult to find replacement parts or accessories. Additionally, the radio is not water-resistant, which could be an issue for those driving in wet conditions. Finally, the product-specific batteries required may be an additional expense for some users.
Overall, we think the Uniden BEARCAT 980 SSB CB Radio is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable CB radio for their Jeep. Its large, easy-to-read display, noise-cancelling microphone, and compatibility with the Uniden BC906W CB Wireless Microphone make it an excellent option for those who spend much time on the road.
Midland 75-822 40 Channel CB-Way Radio
If you’re looking for a reliable and portable CB radio, the Midland 75-822 is a great option.
Pros
- The radio features 40 CB and 10 NOAA channels, providing various communication options.
- With a lightweight design, the radio can be easily converted into a mobile radio with the required accessories.
- The large, backlit LCD screen provides a multifunctional display that’s easy to read, day or night.
Cons
- The radio requires six AA batteries, which can be inconvenient to replace.
- Some users have reported that the antenna is not very durable and may need to be replaced.
- The radio’s range may be limited in certain areas or conditions.
In our experience, the Midland 75-822 is a reliable and easy-to-use CB radio. The dual watch feature allows you to monitor two channels simultaneously, while the NOAA weather alert provides instant access to weather and hazard information. The radio’s ANL and squelch control features also help to improve reception and eliminate noise.
One downside of the radio is that it requires six AA batteries, which can be inconvenient to replace. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the antenna’s durability and range in certain areas or conditions.
Overall, if you’re looking for a portable and reliable CB radio, the Midland 75-822 is a great choice.
Uniden CMX760 Bearcat Off Road Series Compact Mobile CB Radio
The Uniden CMX760 Bearcat Off Road Series Compact Mobile CB Radio is a great choice if you’re looking for a reliable and compact CB radio for off-road use.
Pros
- The CMX760 is ultra-compact and easy to mount, making it ideal for Jeeps, trucks, or cars.
- The large display on the speaker/mic makes it easy to read and control.
- The Uniden CMX760 is designed to provide years of trouble-free service.
Cons
- An external speaker is recommended if you’re using the CMX760 in a noisy environment, such as an open-air Jeep or diesel truck.
- The installed speaker is not very loud so an external speaker may be necessary in some situations.
- The CMX760 does not have an antenna, which must be purchased separately.
The Uniden CMX760 represents the highest quality communications device designed for use in the Citizens Band Radio Service. It will operate on any of the 40 CB frequencies authorized by the FCC. The CMX760 is the perfect ultra-compact size and easy to mount on top, underneath your dashboard, or even under the driver’s seat.
The included speaker/microphone with remote LCD, microphone hanger with hardware, extension cable, slide mount bracket with hardware, DC power cord with fuse, and user’s manual make it easy to install. Its rugged components and materials are capable of withstanding harsh environments.
In summary, the Uniden CMX760 Bearcat Off Road Series Compact Mobile CB Radio is a great choice if you’re looking for a compact and reliable CB radio for off-road use. It’s easy to install and provides years of trouble-free service.
Cobra 19 MINI Recreational CB Radio
If you’re looking for a compact CB radio perfect for recreational or professional use, we recommend the Cobra 19 MINI Recreational CB Radio.
Pros
- The ultra-compact design makes it easy to fit in tight spaces, making it perfect for RVs, work trucks, and delivery vans.
- With 40 channels, a total of 4 Watts of RF output power, and a heavy-duty mic, you’re guaranteed loud and clear sound, making it perfect for construction and delivery drivers.
- The intuitive controls make it easy to use in any vehicle, and the instant channels 9/19 feature allows you to switch to emergency or information channels with one push.
Cons
- The receiver sensitivity may need to be adjusted for the best signal and to filter out any unwanted noise from your speaker.
- The VOX hands-free usage feature may not work well in loud vehicles or construction site settings.
- The water resistance level is not specified, so it may not be suitable for use in wet conditions.
We were impressed with the Cobra 19 MINI Recreational CB Radio’s compact design, clear communication, and ease of use. The instant channels 9/19 feature is a great addition, allowing you to switch to emergency or information channels with one push quickly. However, the receiver sensitivity may need to be adjusted for the best signal, and the VOX hands-free usage feature may not work as well in loud environments. We recommend this CB radio for recreational or professional use in tight spaces.
Uniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB Radio
If you’re looking for an affordable and compact CB radio, the Uniden PRO505XL is a great option. It has a user-friendly layout with large dedicated up/down buttons and offers full 40-channel operation with dynamic squelch control for crisp, clear sound. The backlit LCD display is optimized for day or night viewing, making it easy to check the current channel, volume, and other features.
Pros
- Compact and affordable
- Backlit LCD for easy viewing
- User-friendly layout with large dedicated up/down buttons
Cons
- Speaker lacks quality
- No antenna included
- Limited features compared to more expensive models
However, the speaker lacks quality and may require an external speaker for better sound. Additionally, the PRO505XL does not have an antenna, so you must purchase one separately. While it offers all the essential features you need in a CB radio, it does not have some advanced features in more expensive models.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable CB radio for your Jeep, the Uniden PRO505XL is an excellent choice. It’s easy to use, compact, and offers all the essential features you need for communication on the road. Just be aware that you may need to purchase an external speaker and antenna separately.
Midland – MXT275 MicroMobile GMRS Radio
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile two-way radio for overlanding, off-roading, farming, RVing, or any outdoor activity, the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile GMRS Radio is a great choice.
Pros
- The compact size and easy-to-use interface make it great for communicating on the go.
- 15 Hi Power Channels GMRS Channels: 1-7 & 15-22 provide increased range communication over a long range.
- 142 CTCSS/DCS privacy codes allow you to select a specific code to use with a particular channel, which helps to prevent unwanted transmissions from being heard on the same channel.
Cons
- While a 50-mile range may be possible under ideal conditions, it’s essential to consider the terrain and other factors that can affect the range of the radio in use.
- The speaker may not be loud enough even when turned up.
- Requires 6 AAA batteries.
We recently took the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile GMRS Radio on a camping trip, which performed great. The compact size made it easy to pack and carry with us, and the easy-to-use interface allowed us to communicate while exploring the outdoors quickly.
The 15 Hi Power Channels GMRS Channels provided increased communication over a long-range, which was especially useful when we were out of cell phone range. We were also impressed with the 142 CTCSS/DCS privacy codes, which allowed us to select a specific code to use with a particular channel, preventing unwanted transmissions from being heard on the same track.
While the 50-mile range may not always be possible due to terrain and other factors, we found that the range was still impressive and allowed us to stay in touch with each other even when we were far apart. The only downside we experienced was that the speaker might not be loud enough even when turned up, but this was a minor issue that didn’t affect our overall experience with the product.
Overall, we highly recommend the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile GMRS Radio for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile two-way radio for outdoor activities.
Uniden Bearcat 880 CB Radio
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use CB radio for your Jeep, the Uniden Bearcat 880 is a great option.
Pros
- The 40-channel operation and NOAA weather channel access allow for clear communication and up-to-date information on weather conditions.
- The 7-color backlit display with easy-to-read large type and dimmer switch makes it easy to read the display in any lighting conditions.
- The built-in SWR meter and integrated diagnostic modes help keep your CB station performing well.
Cons
- The noise-cancelling feature on the 6-pin microphone could be better.
- The emergency channel is not automatically available and must be manually switched to.
- The limited edition model may not be available for long.
We recently tested the Uniden Bearcat 880 CB radio on a weekend off-roading trip and were impressed by its performance. The 40-channel operation allowed us to communicate clearly with our convoy, and the NOAA weather alerts kept us informed of any incoming storms. The 7-color backlit display was easy to read even in bright sunlight, and the dimmer switch made adjusting the display intensity for night driving easy.
The built-in SWR meter and diagnostic modes were also helpful, allowing us to quickly check the performance of our CB station and make any necessary adjustments. However, we did find that the noise-cancelling feature on the microphone could be improved, as we occasionally had trouble hearing each other over engine noise.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use CB radio for your Jeep, the Uniden Bearcat 880 is a great option. Just be aware that the emergency channel is not automatically available, and the limited edition model may not be available for long.
Buying Guide
When buying the best Jeep CB radio, several factors must be considered. We must ensure that our product is reliable, durable, and has all the necessary features. Here are some key things to keep in mind when making a purchase:
Range
The range of the CB radio is one of the most important factors to consider. We need to ensure that the radio has a long enough range to communicate with other vehicles or people. The content of the radio will depend on the terrain, weather conditions, and other factors. Choosing a radio with a range that suits our needs is essential.
Power Output
The power output of the CB radio is another important factor to consider. We must ensure the radio has enough power to transmit and receive signals. The power output is measured in watts; the higher the wattage, the better the radio performance.
Size and Design
The size and design of the CB radio are also essential factors to consider. We must ensure the radio is compact and easy to install in our Jeep. The design should also be rugged and durable to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough terrain.
Additional Features
When choosing a CB radio for our Jeep, we should consider additional features such as weather alerts, noise reduction, and emergency channels. These features can be helpful in emergencies and enhance the radio’s overall performance.
In summary, when choosing the best Jeep CB radio, we must consider factors such as range, power output, size and design, and additional features. By considering these factors, we can ensure that we choose a reliable and durable radio that meets our needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated CB radios for Jeeps?
If you’re considering augmenting your Jeep’s communications setup, several top-notch CB radios have garnered commendable reviews, such as the Cobra 75 WX ST, Uniden PRO520XL, and Midland 75-822. The Cobra 75 WX ST is particularly notable for its all-in-hand design, featuring a multi-functioning unit that houses both the speaker and controls, making it space-efficient. On the other hand, the Uniden PRO520XL offers RF gain control and a built-in noise limiter, optimizing sound quality even under less-than-ideal conditions. Midland 75-822 provides the unique capability of converting from a handheld to a mobile CB radio, a feature valued by those who may also want to use the unit outside their vehicle. These options offer a balance of durability, ease of use, and quality sets that appeal to novice users and CB radio enthusiasts alike.
How do I mount a CB radio in my Jeep?
Mounting a CB radio in your Jeep is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor; it depends on several factors, like the model of your Jeep, available space, and personal ergonomic preferences. Generally, you can opt for a CB radio mount bracket, which attaches the unit directly to your dashboard or center console. A roll bar mount is another popular choice, taking advantage of a Jeep’s typical roll bar structure for a higher placement. Lastly, a dash mount affixes the CB radio onto or beneath the dashboard, often necessitating minor modifications or drilling. Whichever option you choose, ensure the unit doesn’t interfere with your driving operation and remains accessible yet secure.
What is the best CB antenna for off-roading?
For off-roading fans, the best CB antenna offers durability and high performance. The Firestik FS series antennas often emerge as the top recommendation. Engineered to endure the brunt of rough terrains and inclement weather conditions, they’re also tunable to meet the specific bandwidth requirements for optimal SWR (Standing Wave Ratio). The Firestik antennas also employ a fiberglass construction for excellent durability and flexibility, both crucial aspects when navigating unpredictable landscapes.
Why should I put a CB radio in my Jeep?
Yes, installing a CB radio in your Jeep is highly beneficial, particularly for those who venture off the beaten path or find themselves in remote areas where mobile phone signals are unreliable. CB radios facilitate real-time communication with other drivers, whether for casual banter, road condition updates, or emergencies. They become vital in emergencies where prompt and clear communication can make a significant difference, often serving as a lifeline when other means of communication are unavailable.
What are the most popular CB radios used in Jeeps?
The most frequently utilized CB radios in Jeeps are the Cobra 75 WX ST, Uniden PRO520XL, and Midland 75-822. These models gain traction for their robust build quality, reliable performance, and user-friendly interfaces. For example, the Cobra 75 WX ST is valued for its compact, all-in-one design that economizes cabin space. The Uniden PRO520XL is lauded for its exceptional audio clarity features like RF gain and noise limiter. The Midland 75-822 wins points for its versatility, usable as a handheld and a mobile unit.
Which CB radio is considered the best on the market?
Determining the “best” CB radio is subjective and primarily hinges on individual needs and situational criteria. However, the Cobra 75 WX ST, Uniden PRO520XL, and Midland 75-822 are frequently cited as top contenders based on consistent performance, user reviews, and feature sets. The Cobra 75 WX ST is often praised for its compact design and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for Jeeps with limited space. The Uniden PRO520XL stands out for its exceptional audio quality, while the Midland 75-822 is versatile, operating both as a handheld and in-vehicle unit. Evaluating your requirements, from frequency range to additional features like weather channels, will guide you to the optimal CB radio for your Jeep.
