The 10 Best Marine Cb Radio Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Uniden BC75XLT, 300-Channel Handheld Scanner
The Uniden BC75XLT handheld scanner is compact and easy to use for monitoring events as they happen. Listen to the reports directly going to emergency agencies during severe weather and other disasters. The BC75XLT includes the frequencies used by Amature Radio Operators to report on emergencies, including NOAA weather broadcasts. Read Review
2. Best Bang For The Buck: Cobra HHRT50 Road Trip Cb Radio
The Cobra HHRT50 is a dual band CB radio that features a magnetic mount antenna, and acoustically tuned speaker. The Cobra HHRT50 is easy to use, with only two push buttons to get the most out of it. For the best possible sound quality, it has an acoustically tuned speaker. The Cobra HHRT50 will keep you connected during any road trip or camping adventure. Read Review
3. Best Reliable: Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Handheld 2-Way VHF Marine radio
This Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Hand Held VHF Marine Radio is designed to withstand the rigors of being out in the water, whether day in and day out or just on a short trip. The Uniden MHS75 is built rugged to take the rigors of being out on the water, day in and day out with a full JIS8 Waterproof rating. It also features a floating design, and is submersible for up to 30 minutes at five feet. Read Review
4. Best Quality: Standard Horizon HX210 HX210 6W Compact Floating Marine Handheld VHF
Designed to be easy to use, the HX210 is perfect for boaters of all skill levels. With over 14 NOAA channels and weather alert updates on NOAA weather radios, you can feel confident that you're prepared for any storm or emergency situation. The HX210 also features a water activated emergency strobe light which is perfect for signaling in low visibility conditions and a full dot matrix display. Read Review
Do you want to know what is the best marine radio? If your answer is yes, then read on. Radio communications are crucial for marine activities. A reliable radio can enable you to stay in touch with friends and colleagues or access information about the weather, tide, and other conditions that might affect your next fishing expedition.
Marine communications are a vital part of any ship’s operation. From keeping track of coastal traffic to contacting other vessels in the middle of the ocean, marine radios can be the difference between life and death for a crew on the high seas. However, with so many different models and options available, it can be difficult to know where to start shopping. To make sure you get the best marine cb radio that suits your needs, read on.
Our team had to focus on researching and sifting through 17 hours to get such results for readers. These studies are based on customer star reviews and interviews about their feelings when using the product. When it comes to finding the best marine cb radio, we believe Uniden BC75XLT, 300-Channel Handheld Scanner is a worth product to buy. If you're looking for additional options and more in-depth advice, you may check out the following.
RELATED: We researched on 3,153+ customer reviews to create a list of top 10 best dual band handheld ham radio in 2024. Check them here.
Our Top Picks
- Close call RF capture Technology with do Not disturb
- Close Call RF Capture Technology: Close Call automatically detects and tunes to nearby transmissions, even if the frequency isn't programmed into a channel
- Ten Preprogrammed Service Search Bands: Easily search for frequencies typically used by Police, Fire/Emergency, Marine, Racing, Civil Air, Ham Radio, Railroad, CB Radio, Weather, and more
- Narrowband Compliant: Properly tunes to channels using the Narrowband modulation now required for business and public safety operation
- Pc programming port & free software
- Operating system: Linux
- 300 channels , 10 Programmable Search Ranges
- Vhf low/high, uhf frequencies
- Narrow band compatible
- 300 Channels: You can program up to 300 channels into the scanner's memory, 30 channels in each of 10 banks. Then, you can scan for transmissions on the stored channels
- 40 CHANNEL ACCESS - Navigate the complete range of 40 channels for full coverage of CB stations.
- DUAL WATCH - select two channels to constantly monitor simultaneously. Keep an ear open for incoming transmissions on multiple channels so you will hear alerts around you.
- MAGNETIC MOUNT MOBILE ANTENNA - Allows mobile operation from your vehicle. Mount the magnetic antenna to the roof of your car and use your radio easily from inside your vehicle.
- SOUND TRACKER SYSTEM - Don’t miss any important information due to interference or static, with the Sound tracker system cutting 90% of the noise, you'll hear crystal clear communication
- 10 NOAA WEATHER CHANNELS - Be the first to know of incoming hazards or changing weather w/ instant access to NOAA weather channels 24 hours a day and audible tone if an emergency or threatening weather is nearby while monitoring up to 3 channels at once
- All USA, International, and Canada Channels - The MHS75 covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels, keeping you up-to-date with all the latest marine activity.
- 1 /2.5/5 Watt Switchable - Select between 1, 2.5, and 5 Watts for short- and long-range communication - this is also a convenient way to save a little battery life. In most situations, the 1 Watt transmission power is all you need. If you find yourself far away from other stations and have trouble getting a response, you may need to boost the transmission power from 1 Watt to 2.5 Watts or 5 Watts.
- Instant Channel 16/9/Triple Watch - Triple Watch mode monitors channels 16 and 9 for a signal while you listen to the currently selected channel. The marine radio checks channel 16 and 9 for activity every 2 seconds.
- JIS8 Waterproof Level - Uniden MHS75 VHF Hand Held Radio won't give up no matter how wet it gets. Whitecap splash, gusty spray, tidal wave, whatever, this radio can take it. The Uniden MHS75 2-way Marine Radio is built rugged to take the rigors of being out on the water, day in and day out with a full JIS8 waterproof rating. It also features a floating design, and is submersible for up to 30 minutes at five feet.
- All NOAA Weather Channels with Weather Alert - This radio comes preprogrammed with NOAA weather channels. The Emergency/Weather Alert allows it to function as a severe weather warning radio and will also alert you to any local or national emergencies. If the NOAA issues warning while this feature is turned On, the radio sounds an alert tone. You will then hear the emergency/weather broadcast.
- High resolution dot matrix LCD display. Programmable function keys. Speaker mic Jack.
- High capacity 1850 mAh Li-Ion battery. 3 hour desktop rapid charger. 12VDC and 110VAC charging cables and charging cradle included.
- All USA, International and Canadian channels. Selectable 6W / 2.5W / 1W output power. Receive WX and FM radio bands 76MHz to 108MHz
- Compact Case Design. Water Activated Emergency Strobe light. Oversized full dot matrix display. E20 Easy to Operate Menu System
- 3-year Waterproof Warranty. Floating / Submersible IPX7 Waterproof rating (3.3 feet or 1 meter for 30 minutes). Built in FM Broadcast band receive
- [IP67 Waterproof] The radio floats and sends out a RED flashing light on the bottom if dropped in water, making it easier to be located and retrieved even in the dark. It’s submersible for up to 30 minutes in water up to 3ft/1m.
- [Vibration Water Draining] No worry if water gets into the speaker grill and muffles the audio, RV6 can emit a vibrating sound and shed water away.
- [10 NOAA Weather Scan & Alert] Instant access to national hazards and weather information, 24 hours a day. it will be a lifesaver in case the sudden change in the weather while on the boat.
- [Safety Emergency Radio] Tri-watch mode monitors three channels (Channel 16, Channel 9 and the current channel) at once. Easy to access the emergency channel 16 and call the coast guard for help via 16/C button.
- [Wide Range Coverage] It covers all USA, International, and Canadian marine channels, keeping you with most up-to-date marine activities.
- NiMH Rechargeable 4xAAA, 950mAh NiMH rechargeable batteries and DC charging cable included. 3 Watt Transmit Power with user selectable 3W or 1W Transmit power. 3 Year Warranty and Full 3 year Waterproof Warranty.
- With the Largest LCD screen in its class 25mm (h) x 40mm (w), and Paper White Backlight display for Day Time, and Red Backlight display for Night Time, it’s the radio you won’t leave shore without.
- It Floats, meets the toughest Waterproof standards IPX8 / JIS8, and even clears its speaker of water after being submerged. And with its compact size it’s never far away when you need to stay in touch the most.
- When every inch of space count, you still want the important features that will keep you safe at sea. The Atlantis 155 doesn’t sacrifice big features to keep its profile small.
- The Atlantis 155’s submersible, Floating Handheld design allows you to stay secure and connected while having fun on the water.
- Receives all Marine Radio Channels, including all USA, Canada, and International Marine VHF channels (includes the new 4-digit channels and Canadian “B” channels) and receives all NOAA Weather Channels and Alerts
- SAFETY FIRST – Scan channels to find conversations in progress and have instant access to Channel 16 and Channel 9 for emergency situations. Use the Dual Watch feature to monitor two channels at once (Channel 16 and one user selected channel).
- MAXIMUM COVERAGE – This VHF marine radio allows operation of channels in the US, Canada, and internationally at 1 or 25 watts with dual output power for short and long range communication.
- STAY INFORMED – Be the first to know of incoming hazards or changing weather conditions with instant access to 10 NOAA weather channels, 24 hours a day. Weather alerts with an audible tone and visual alarm notify you of threatening weather nearby.
- DIGITAL SELECTIVE CALLING – Send a distress signal at the touch of a button or exchange position information with other boats, stations, or coast guard. When it comes to safety on the water and in the boat, Cobra has your back.
- VISUAL DISPLAY – Know the strength of an incoming signal with the Signal Strength Meter shown on the large illuminated LCD display. Navigate the various features of this radio easily with the illuminated function keys.
- Programmable soft keys. Automatically poll the GPS position of up to 4 ships using DSC. Submersible IPX8 waterproof rating (1.5M or 4.92 feet for 30 minutes)
- Radio controls on the Microphone. E2O Easy to Operate Icon/Menu System. Oversized Full dot matrix display (31 mm x 55 mm). Built in Separate Receiver for CH70 (Receiving DSC Calls)
- All USA/International and Canadian Marine Channels. Preset key used to recall up to 10 favorite channels. NOAA weather channel selection with Weather Alert. Programmable Scan, Priority Scan, and Dual Watch
- Affordable Ultra Compact Class D Fixed Mount VHF Radio. Meets ITU-R M493-13 Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling). Replaces older Eclipse+ and Eclipse DSC Models
- DSC test call and Auto DSC channel change selection. GPS position and Time Shown on a Full-dot Matrix Display when Connected to a GPS Receiver. NMEA In and Output Connections to a Compatible GPS Chart Plotter
- With triple watch features, DSC capabilities, a range of international marine channels and S. A. M. E Weather Alert—the UM385 brings everything you’ll need on the water into one compact design.
- DSC (Digital Selective Calling) - Includes Distress Button, Position Send and Request. Gives you the ability to press one button to call for help during an emergency. Full Class D DSC capability. High performance transceiver ensures clear communication and
- The UM385 rugged handheld mic allows you to transmit easily from the wheel while keeping your focus on the waters ahead.
- Uniden's Marine Radios protect you from what lies ahead, as well as getting you out of dicey waters, by informing you the moment a storm starts brewing and transmitting your location should you need help.
- Waterproof Radio – Complies with IPX4 waterproof standards, which means the radio is resistant to damage from rain or splashing water.
- Meets ITU-R M493-13 Class D DSC (Digital Selective Calling)
- Affordable Ultra Compact Class D Fixed Mount VHF Radio
- Built-in 66 Channel WAAS GPS receiver
- Radio controls on the Microphone
- Replaces older Eclipse+ and Eclipse DSC Models
Things To Look For When Buying best marine cb radio
There are numerous factors to consider when looking for the best marine cb radio to purchase. The easiest way to figure out the right one is to read reviews from people who have already purchased it.
Throughout this article, we will go over certain most important factors to consider when purchasing best marine cb radio. Please take your time reading and studying the items listed below!
Weatherproofing
An entirely waterproof radio is an option. Many models are waterproof and can withstand severe rain. Some models can be submerged up to 30 minutes without causing any damage. A model that floats will be your best option if your radio is used for fisherman, fishing or crossing open waters. If you drop your model accidentally, it can be easily picked up from the water surface.
Weight And Size
Emergency Features
Channels & Privacy Codes
Maximum Range
Battery Type
Number Of Handsets
FAQs
How Many Radios Can I Use One Location?
You can use as many radios at any location you wish, regardless of the license. To manage communication better, we suggest that the channel's users be limited to ten.How Far Do 2 Way Radios Broadcast?
Broadcast distances of commercial-grade hand-held radios are generally between one and two miles. While VHF radios can broadcast further, they do not penetrate as far. UHF radios transmit a greater distance and have better penetration.What Is 2 Way Radio VOX?
Voice activation is VOX. VOX promises hands-free operation. "Speak and the radio will open to broadcast your message." However, voice activation should actually be called sound activation. The VOX function on a 2-way radio can't distinguish between a call to help or the usual grunts, groans and grunts of normal physical activity. VOX may cause more problems than it solves. We do not recommend VOX being used in commercial applications.Why Do 2 Way Radios Have Multiple Channels?
Every channel can be programed at a different frequency. Most modern 2 way radios can have between 4 and 16 channels, although some radios may have up to 256 channels. Channel one will be the only channel that broadcasts on the frequency being used. It is beneficial for commercial applications to have different communication depending on the work group or whereabouts. Radios can be used by schools to broadcast the news. Teachers and administrators might prefer one channel.Can I Change The Frequencies On My 2 Way Radios?
Many commercial-grade 2 way radios can be programmed from either a computer onboard or via a PC. Although you cannot change VHF to UHF, the radio can be programmed with a PC or on-board programming. However, it can alter the frequencies in the band.What Is The Life Expectancy Of A 2 Way Radio?
Two-way radios of commercial grade are made to comply with Military Specifications as well as Intrusion Protection standards. These radios can live for a long time if they are maintained and used in accordance with the specifications. Two-way radios can last up to 10 years. But radio batteries rarely last more than 3 to 4 years.Is VHF Or UHF Better?
The frequency band that a radio can operate within is called VHF (very high frequency), or UHF [ultra high frequency]. VHF operates between 136 and 174 MHz, while UHF operates between 400 and 512 MHz. Wave length is shorter the higher frequency. A signal will travel farther if it has a longer wave length. It is easier for the signal's to penetrate if the wave length is shorter. VHF broadcasts better over open water and from an unobstructed location to another. For broadcasting through buildings or other obstructions, UHF is better than VHF.Conclusion
The best marine cb radio would be those who suit your needs and demands at the lowest possible cost. With more and more options available, it could be simple to find a design that satisfies all of these criteria. If you're not sure which one is best for you, take into account the Uniden PRO505XL 40-Channel CB Radio for another option.
READ NEXT: The 10 Best Tablet 13 Inch Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
About Tim Powers
