For truck drivers who are on the road over long distance, a good quality CB radio is critical to their job.
Truckers use the CB radio as their primary source of communication and it’s a critical safety tool for them. For long haul truck drivers, there are areas in the country where cell phone reception is poor or non-existent, so the CB is the best way to relay information among other truckers such as bad weather, traffic conditions, and road hazards.
With an established network connecting CB radio users instantly, it’s easy to see why these devices are still found in everyday vehicles just as they are in virtually every commercial truck on the road today.
If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of a road closure or worry about how to communicate with others when phone lines are down, then one of these units can certainly help. It’s one of the most reliable forms of communication today, even though they were first introduced over 70 years ago.
When it comes to investing in one of these units, you’ll find that there are many choices on the market. From those that are budget-friendly to those that are a bit more luxurious, chances are high that you’ll quickly find one to fit your needs. However, before you begin in your search for a CB radio, it’s important to know which features you should look for. By knowing which are the most beneficial, you’ll be able to shop smarter and with less risk of purchasing a device you won’t like.
Features to Look for in a CB Radio
Every CB radio on the market today will transmit 4 watts of power, as this is required by law. For this reason, the power on the unit you purchase shouldn’t be the only feature that you look at. It’s also important to make sure the device works well, is easy to use, is the right size, and will provide you with the clear communication that you both want and need. Additional features to check for include:
| CB Radio Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Screen Clarity | Most CB radio displays now have easy-to-read screens so you can quickly and more easily identify the power output or what channel you’re connected to. This is a convenience you’ll appreciate because it will make it much more simple to see the information you need to know while on the road. |
| RF Gain | This feature will allow you to eliminate background noise by blocking out faint transmissions that don’t have strong signal strengths. By connecting to only strong signals, you get communication that’s far more clear. |
| Output Control | This prevents you from having to listen to excess amounts of static by only coming on when a transmission comes through. |
| Automatic Noise Limiter | This filters out interference as well as static and engine noise so you get better sound quality and clarity. |
| Screen Dimmer | When driving at night, the screen dimmer and control dimmers will help ensure you’re not distracted by the bright lights on the radio. |
Top CB Radio
The features listed above are some of the most important to look out for when you purchase this type of device. However, it’s important to note that some units will be equipped with much more than this to ensure a more user-friendly experience. The CB radio listed below is an example of one of these, which is why it’s one of the most popular and best-selling options available today.
DX-959B Mobile CB Radio by Galaxy Review
| Best CB Radio | Rating | Cost |
|---|---|---|
  |
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$$$ |
With positive reviews from everyday drivers as well as those who operate commercial vehicles, this Galaxy brand CB radio is an excellent choice, and a great upgrade from its predecessor DX 949.
In addition to being fairly easy to use, it’s also long-lasting and has a proven track record of working well for those who buy it. However, it’s important to note that in addition to offering the features above, it does have many more for those who invest in it. This is why most buyers recommend to read through the user guide, which will ensure you can get the most out of the unit. To better understand what these features are, they include:
- Frequency Counter – This unit includes a five-digit frequency counter that displays in easy-to-read blue digits. Right next to this is a two-digit channel display with the same large blue digits.
- StarLite Faceplate – This faceplate has back lighting with white lettering, blue lettering, or red lettering. The LED colors for the frequency and channels are blue whether during the day or night.
- Easy-to-Read Scales – The meter is large so it’s easy to read and displays scales for power output, incoming signals, modulation, and SWR.
- Variable Dimmer Control – Control is equipped with push switch that will turn the meter lamp off.
- Galaxy Noise Filter – Reduces noise to help overcome weak SSB signals.
Other Features Include:
- Variable Power Outlet Control
- Automatic SWR Circuit
- LED SWR Alert
- Roger Beep (with on & off switch)
- Star Lite Back Lighting
- 2-Position Tone Switch to Receive
- Mic Gain Control
- Power Output Scale Calibrated for SSB and AM
- Automatic Noise Limiter Circuit
- Clarifier Control
- Rear Jacks (for use with external speaker and public addressing)
- AM/SSB, PA Modes
- Handheld Microphone
- Mounting Brackets
Selecting Your Ideal CB Radio
Due to the fact that CB radios do not require a special license in order to purchase, you can invest in one at any time that you would like. The best part about the Galaxy model above (and perhaps why it has such great reviews) is that fact that you’ll get something that’s reliable, jam-packed with features, and user-friendly.
In addition to this, it comes with everything you need to install it in your vehicle so you can have it around when you need to communicate or would just like to listen to chatter about road conditions. Even more importantly, the radio is laid out in a smart manner so you can use the functions that are necessary for everyday use.
Whether you’re planning on using this in your vehicle or a commercial truck, it can absolutely be a good investment if you’re looking for a unit that’s high quality.
>>Read more information about the DX 959 by Galaxy
Geoff is a freelance writer at TruckersTraining.com with 20+ years of experience driving trucks and buses, dispatching, supervising, and training commercial driving teams. His expertise is writing topics on the transportation and trucking industry, and information technology trends.
