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5. Cobra 19DXIV Professional CB Radio
Cobra is a renowned CB radio manufacturer with a long line of high-quality products. The Cobra 19DXIV is no exception, and it's an excellent starter radio for casual CB users. Functionally, it includes all the necessities and a full 40-channel range. An instant emergency (channel 9) button is a plus, and the 19DXIV is compatible with PA systems.
The Cobra 19DXIV CB radio retails on Amazon for $49.95, which is a reasonable price for a high-quality entry-level CB radio.
4. Uniden CMX760 Bearcat CB Radio
The Uniden CMX760 Bearcat is perhaps the most compact and low-profile CB radio in its class. The ultra-slim design mounts on or under the dash. Uniden laid out the volume and channel selection controls on the microphone, allowing for easy operation. The blue backlit screen is easy to see at night, and the instant emergency button is a nice addition.
The Uniden CMX760 Bearcat CB radio retails on Amazon for $111.11 overall. It's twice the price of the Cobra 19DXIV, but it's far more compact. Flexible installation and low-profile design make the Uniden CMX760 stand out.
3. Radioddity CB-27 CB Radio
Radioddity produces a highly compact CB radio designated CB-27. This radio fits in the palm of your hand and mounts permanently to most vehicle surfaces. It features consolidated controls controlled by buttons and a single knob. In addition to the usual channel 9 button, the Radioddity CB-27 includes a channel 19 shortcut for truckers.
The Radioddity CB-27 retails for $59.99 on Amazon and earns the best value for ultra-compact CB radios. The only downside is the non-traditional microphone socket, which limits aftermarket options.
2. Uniden PRO505XL Compact CB Radio
If you're looking for an affordable plug-and-play CB radio, the Uniden PRO505XL is difficult to refuse. I installed a Uniden PRO505XL in my 1979 Chevy pickup back in 2014. It's 2020 now, and I have absolutely no complaints. This model is about the same size as the Cobra 19DXIV; the two models are comparable in features as well.
The Uniden PRO505XL features a 40-channel range, instant channel 9 button, squelch control, and a CB/PA selector switch. The microphone is lightweight and flush. Uniden sells the PRO505XL on Amazon for $35.63, which is the best bang-for-your-buck on our list.
1. Cobra 25LTD Professional CB Radio
The Cobra LTD series is one of the most recognizable classic CB radio designs available. The appearance and function of the LTD series changed little over the last few decades. These radios remain popular because they work so well. The 25LTD is the compact model of the series and includes numerous 'advanced' features.
The Cobra 25LTD is not designed for beginners, but that doesn't mean it's not beginner-friendly. In addition to channel selection, the Cobra 25LTD features an RF meter, dynamike control, RF gain, and a dimmer switch. These features make the Cobra 25LTD the most robust CB radio on our list. This model typically retails for $99.95, and we think it's worth every penny.
