9 of the best CB antenna options for your radio
Contributing Editor
Senior Editor & Radio Host
CB antennas can have a direct impact on the performance of your Citizens band radio.
If you’re keen to get started in the amateur radio landscape, or you’ve been experimenting with ham technology for a while, then a CB antenna could take your hobby to the next level.
The best CB radio antenna strengthens your frequency range and improves your chances of finding new channels.
Essentially, the technology works by capturing radio frequency signals and converting them into electrical signals and vice versa.
The better your CB antenna, the more signals you can find and transform into radio sounds.
It’s also possible to use your CB antenna to boost your chances of sending messages and songs out into the world.
If you want to communicate with other people more effectively, your CB antenna could be the answer.
We’ve explored some of the top options to help you make the right choice.
1. LUITON CB antenna 28 inches (best heavy duty)
The taller your antenna, the more range you can expect – that’s a crucial rule for ham radio enthusiasts to follow.
This extra-long antenna from LUITON is perfect for those who want access to more content, and more opportunities for amateur streaming.
The full kit comes with a magnet mount included, and 10 feet of coaxial cable, so you can position your antenna wherever you need it. There’s even a stainless steel whip for extra durability.
The magnetic base on the LUITON high performing CB antenna makes it easy to enhance your reception instantly with any large metal surface, you can even use this device on your car.
Features include:
- 28-inch antenna for long-range receiving and transmission
- Magnet mount with pre-installed 10 feet of coaxial cable
- Coil load and stainless steel whip
- Magnetic base to improve reception
- Weather channel capable
- Cover for all CB frequencies
- 12-month warranty
The LUITON CB antenna can access all emergency weather stations, so you never have to worry about missing out on important announcements.
This device is also suitable for all CB frequencies, and comes with a 12-month warranty for peace of mind.
This product is a little flimsy in places, and doesn’t have the best range available, compared to some top performers.
Pros:
- 28-inch length for long-range
- Excellent full kit with 10-foot cable
- Magnetic base improves reception
- 12 months warranty
- Weather channel capable
Cons:
- Limited range
- Can suffer damage easily
2. Nagoya CB-72 28-inch (Best with PL-259 connector)
The Nagoya CB-72 is another powerful 28 inch center coil-loaded antenna with a heavy duty spring and magnetic mount.
This easy-to-install omni-directional product comes with a stainless steel construction for durability.
There’s also an impressive 18 inches of premium RG-58A/U Coax and support for all of the CB frequencies you might want.
The great thing about the Nagoya is that no tuning is necessary. You’ll be able to start picking up radio signals instantly.
There’s also a solid brass MNO mount with a satin finish, and a gold plunger type contact pin.
You also get a PL-259 connector to connect directly to CB radios.
Features include:
- Omni-directional, easy-to-use, and easy-to-install design
- Stainless steel antenna
- 18 inches premium RG-58A/U Coax
- Heavy duty magnetic mount included
- PL-259 connector
The Nagoya CB-72 antenna pairs particularly well with a range of high-performing CB radios recommended by the BTECH store team but you can use this device with almost any amateur citizen’s band radio system.
There are a few issues with this CB antenna. It’s not height adjustable, and the cable is too short to put it in the back of larger cars.
Pros:
- Easy to use and install
- Stainless steel for extra strength
- PL-259 connector
- Heavy-duty magnetic mount
- 18 inches of premium RG-58A coax
Cons:
- Not height adjustable
- Short cable
3. LUITON Small CB antenna (best for handheld CB)
The LUITON small CB antenna is a convenient choice for those who don’t need huge antenna equipment to update their radio experience.
This high-performance antenna is great for covering all CB frequencies on a handheld radio.
If you don’t think you’re going to be attaching your antenna to the roof of your car, or somewhere in your home, this could be the product for you.
The LUITON small CB antenna comes with a magnet mount, a 17 foot RG-58 cable, and a PL-259 connector.
The 13 foot RG-58/U cable means you can put the antenna into the post possible position, with a signal that’s right for you.
The warranty on this product is also valid for 12 months for any manufacturing defects.
You get:
- 14-inch portable antenna
- PL-259 connector
- Magnet base
- 13 foot RG-58 cable
- Easy installation on any vehicle
- 12-month warranty
This is a handy CB antenna to have around if you’re looking for something to upgrade your current citizen’s band radio, but you’re not in need of something huge.
It’s worth noting that this product is a little flimsy in places, however.
Make sure you don’t accidentally hit the metal when you’re driving past trees or bushes if you can.
Pros:
- Covers all CB frequencies
- Includes magnetic mount
- 12 month warranty
- 13 foot RG-58 cable
- PL-259 connector
Cons:
- Easily breakable
4. Dual band Mobile antenna (best dual band)
The VFAN dual band mobile antenna is an eighteen inch dual-band UHF and VHF antenna, featuring a ten foot RG-58 cable, and a PL-259 connector with a magnetic base.
Ideal for quick installation, all you need to do is plant the magnetic base on the top of your car and you’re ready to go.
You can also change the position of your antenna to ensure that you get the best possible frequency.
Designed for durability and strength, this CB antenna comes with dual-band VHF and UHF support, so you can access more frequencies than ever before.
It’s more durable than most antennas, with a waterproof design that features anti-freeze materials for low temperatures.
You even get a year of warranty coverage, just in case.
Features include:
- 18 inch dual band antenna
- VHF and UHF coverage
- 10 foot RG-58 cable
- Fast installation
- High performance
- Waterproof and freeze proof
- Heavy-duty cable
- One-year warranty
One of the top magnetic CB antenna cables on the market today, the Dual band mobile antenna from VFAN works well as a car CB antenna or a long-range CB antenna in a range of environments.
The biggest problems that we noticed with this cable is that there might not be enough wire available for some people.
The antenna itself is slightly fragile in places.
Pros:
- Works well as a car CB antenna
- Waterproof and freeze proof
- Heavy-duty performance (and a 1 year warranty)
- Easy to use with quick installation
- UHF and VHF coverage
Cons:
- Limited wire length
5. Mirkit foldable (best portable)
Carrying a huge CB antenna around with you isn’t always possible. That’s why the Mirkit store offers a slightly more convenient option.
The foldable tactical antenna is 18.7 inches in length, with a dual-band VHF/UHF performance and high quality materials throughout.
This 18-inch antenna can instantly improve the signal of your radio without taking up too much space.
The adjustable gooseneck means that you can change the direction of your antenna whenever you choose to boost the quality of your communications.
Enjoy a huge signal coverage and discover new experiences with your handheld or tactical ham radio.
You get:
- Durable SMA-female tactical antenna
- Authorized Baofeng distributor reliability
- 18-inch bendable antenna
- Comfort two-way solution
- Extends the range of your communication
- 6.5 Mile talk range
If you already have a Baofeng Ham radio, then the Mirkit Foldable solution is bound to be the best choice for you. This product might not appeal to everyone.
The Mirkit won’t fit with all ham radios correctly, so you’ll need to check your measurements to be sure before making a purchase.
Pros:
- Foldable and portable CB antenna
- Excellent quality materials
- 6.5-mile talk range
- Two-way solution
- Extends communication range
Cons:
- Doesn’t work with all radios
6. TRAM 703-HC (best for beginners)
If you’re looking for a simple all-in-one kit that can immediately improve your citizens band radio experience, then the TRAM 703-HC could be the perfect choice.
This convenient and lightweight product covers all CB frequencies with no problems, and it comes with a hand 3.5 inch mount, alongside a shock spring and a stainless steel whip.
For extra versatility, you get a 17 foot RG-58 cable with PL-259 performance.
Plus, the kit is extremely easy to install. All you need to do is attach the high-performance magnet mount to your car and you’re ready to start tracking down some new frequencies.
This might not be the most advanced product on the market, but for an affordable price, it comes with:
- Support for all CB frequencies
- 3.5-inch magnet mount
- 2 foot tall for extra range
- Shock spring
- Stainless steel whip
- 17 foot RG-58 cable
- PL-259 connector
With everything you need combined into a single kit, the TRAM makes upgrading your amateur radio experience a breeze.
You can even purchase a cigarette lighter kit or a power cord with this kit so you can access more functionality.
The antenna is a little flimsy, so it could break easily if you’re not careful.
Pros:
- Excellent lightweight product
- Easy to install with a strong magnet mount
- Fantastic support for CB frequencies
- 17-foot cable for versatility
- PL-259 connector
Cons:
- Flimsy enough to break with regular use
7. HYS TCJ-N1 dual band (best truck CB antenna)
If you’re attaching your antenna to a large vehicle like a pick-up truck or a van, you’re going to need more cabling to help you manage the system.
The HYS TCJ-N1 is a dual band NMO long range CB antenna, designed to support those who need more cable for their radio connections.
This truck CB antenna features a center frequency of 144/430; VSWR: < with a gain of 144 MHz.
The mount comes with a “trunk lid” design, with a stainless steel whip, and a fantastic four meter cable.
You will need to drill a small hole into the vehicle’s trunk to use this on your truck or car.
This does mean that you have less chance of the CB antenna falling off mid-journey, like it could do with a magnetic mount.
You get:
- Dual band performance
- Extra-long four meter cable
- Trunk lid mount for extra stability
- Excellent rugged performance
- Stainless steel whip
- Flexible 20 inch antenna
Though it takes a little more work to install this truck CB antenna than some of the other products available in this list – it could be the best option for those who want reliability.
The trunk lid mount means that you’re not going to worry about your magnet attachment losing strength when you’re on the road.
Pros:
- Durable and rugged design
- Dual band performance
- Extra-long cord for trucks
- 20-inch flexible antenna
- High-quality materials throughout
Cons:
- Complicated installation
8. K40 model K-30 CB antenna
The best CB antennas come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from extra-long devices intended for use on trucks and lorries, to small CB antenna options that are perfect for portability.
The K40 model K-30 is one of the best CB antenna options around for those who want unbeatable power and durability.
This state-of-the-art stainless steel CB antenna comes with a 300 watt AM power handling capability
Rather than having to drill a hole into your vehicle to use this device, the product comes with a high-performance magnet.
The heavy duty magnet mount ensures that your antenna will remain fixed fully to your vehicle at all times – whenever you’re on the move.
There’s also a powerful 1,280 degree radius tip, so there’s no need for a ball.
Features include:
- Heavy duty 4-inch 10oz magnet
- Radius 180 tip
- 35-inch stainless steel whip
- 15-inch pre-wired shielded coax cable
- 300 watts AM power handling
This is an excellent product for anyone hoping to upgrade the power of their citizen’s band radio.
It’s worth noting that you may need to spend some time figuring out how to properly tune the antenna before you can dive in and fully enjoy the experience.
Pros:
- Excellent heavy-duty magnet
- Radius tip with no ball required
- Long cable for excellent flexibility
- 300 watts power handling
- Strong materials
Cons:
- Takes a bit of work to tune the antenna initially
9. Aries 10813 3-foot (best mirror mount)
Sleek and sophisticated, this Aries 10813 CB antenna is a flexible solution providing 3 foot of fiberglass length – ideal for increasing your radio range.
The antenna is rated for 500 watts, making it excellent for power control, and it comes with a heavy-duty aluminium double groove mount.
The mirror mount is quick and easy to use, with heavy duty studs included.
The Aries CB antenna comes with PL-259 moulded ends and a nine foot cable – which should be more than enough for a wide range of radio fans.
If you’re looking for an alternative to many of the metal antenna options on the market today, then Aries could be the solution.
Features include:
- 3-foot fiberglass antenna
- 500-watt rating
- Heavy-duty aluminium mount
- Mirror mount with brass studs
- 9 foot 4G59AU cable
- PL-259 moulded ends
This is a convenient and flexible antenna with tons of power to offer.
You may find that installing the equipment is a little complicated if you’re used to the convenience of a magnetic mount.
You will need to work with the nuts and screws provided here.
Pros:
- Excellent fiberglass durability
- Heavy-duty mount
- 500-watt rating
- 9 foot 4G59AU cable
- Mirror mount with brass studs
Cons:
- A little complicated to set up
How to choose the best CB antenna for your needs
The best CB antenna is something of a niche product to search for in today’s radio landscape.
If you do use a lot of amateur radio or ham radio products, or you’re thinking of expanding your knowledge in this area, a long-range CB antenna is a great purchase.
To make sure that you’re making the right choice with your investment, look at:
Size
Size is often the main factor when purchasing an antenna. When it comes to long-range CB antenna options, you’re going to need a much larger product.
The bigger the antenna, the better your performance will be, although it’s important to be realistic.
Durability
Most of the time, you’ll use a car CB antenna or truck CB antenna to improve your chances of accessing citizens broadcast channels within your vehicle. It’s important to remember that you’re exposing the antenna to a lot of potential damage from the outside world.
Ensure the product you choose is durable enough to withstand cold weather, rough winds, and even tree branches.
Mount
The mount on your CB antenna determines how you’ll attach it to your vehicle or other pieces of equipment. A magnet mount is the best option if you don’t want to have to drill any holes.
A trunk lid mount may be more reliable if you’re going to be driving frequently in various conditions, and you’re not convinced your magnet will hold.
Frequency bandwidth
This is the range of frequencies that your new best CB antenna will cover. When conducting our CB antenna reviews above, we were looking at products that could access all CB frequencies.
If you want more variety than this, you’ll need to look at the individual product features for each antenna available.
Power handling
CB antennas might need to handle a decent amount of power so that you can transmit frequencies to other people, as well as looking for frequencies on your radio channels.
Look into the power handling that your CB antenna can offer and make sure that it’s suitable for your radio, and your state. Some locations have a limit on how much power people can use when they’re on the CB band.
Picking the best CB antenna
Finding the best CB antenna for your radio hobbies is the first step towards taking your amateur radio lifestyle to the next level. There are plenty of CB antennas out there.
A high-performance CB antenna is a powerful investment that allows you to access more frequencies and channels from virtually any device, particularly when you’re driving around in your car or truck.
Of course, there are many different antenna options out there, and the one that’s right for you will depend on your needs.
If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting with a small CB antenna or a magnetic CB antenna that’s easy to attach to your vehicle without making any lasting changes to the car or truck itself.
If you’re a little more experienced, then you might want to look into high-performance CB antenna products that come with more power control options and various bonus functions, like dual band frequency support.
Good luck finding the CB antenna that suits you, and don’t forget to check out some of the other articles here on Radio Fidelity for more guidance into the world of radio.
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