14 best cb radio antenas

CB radio antennas are essential components for CB (Citizens Band) radio communication systems in vehicles.These antennas are designed to transmit and receive radio signals on the 27 MHz band, which is the frequency range allocated for CB radio use. Here are some key points about CB radio antennas:

  1. Types of CB Antennas:

    • Fiberglass Whip Antennas: These are the most common type of CB antennas. They consist of a fiberglass rod that extends vertically from the vehicle's roof or another mounting location. They are flexible and durable, making them suitable for various conditions.

    • Magnet Mount Antennas: Magnet mount CB antennas have a magnetic base, allowing them to be attached to a metal surface on the vehicle, such as the roof or trunk. They are easy to install and remove, making them a popular choice for temporary setups.

    • Center-Load Antennas: These antennas have their loading coil located at the center of the whip. They are known for their compact design and good performance.

    • Base-Load Antennas: In base-load antennas, the loading coil is located at the base of the whip. These antennas are often used when a taller whip is needed for better signal reception.

  2. Antenna Length: The length of a CB antenna is a critical factor that affects its performance. Ideally, the antenna should be a quarter-wavelength (approximately 108 inches or 9 feet) to maximize signal transmission and reception. However, many antennas are designed to be shorter for practical reasons, but they may sacrifice some performance.

  3. Tuning: To ensure optimal performance, CB antennas often require tuning. This involves adjusting the length of the antenna or the position of the loading coil to match the radio's frequency. Proper tuning helps reduce standing wave ratio (SWR) and improves signal clarity.

  4. Mounting: CB antennas can be mounted in various ways, including roof mounts, mirror mounts, bumper mounts, and trunk lip mounts. The mounting location can impact the antenna's effectiveness, so it's essential to choose an appropriate location for your specific vehicle.

  5. Coaxial Cable: CB antennas are connected to the CB radio using a coaxial cable. The quality and length of this cable can affect signal quality. High-quality, low-loss coaxial cables are recommended to minimize signal loss.

  6. Ground Plane: For many CB antennas to function optimally, they require a ground plane—a conductive surface beneath the antenna. Vehicles with metal roofs often serve as a natural ground plane. In cases where the vehicle has a non-metallic roof, a ground plane kit may be necessary.

  7. SWR Meter: A standing wave ratio (SWR) meter is a valuable tool for tuning CB antennas. It helps measure the impedance match between the antenna and the radio, ensuring efficient signal transmission and reception.

In summary, CB radio antennas play a crucial role in CB communication systems, allowing users to communicate over relatively short distances on the 27 MHz frequency band. Choosing the right type of antenna, ensuring proper mounting and tuning, and using quality coaxial cables are essential steps to maximize the performance of a CB radio system.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best cb radio antenas on the market
  

CB Antenna 28 inch for CB Radio 27 Mhz,Portable Indoor/Outdoor Antenna Full Kit with Heavy Duty Magnet Mount Mobile/Car Radio Antenna Compatible with President Midland Cobra Uniden Anytone by LUITON

LUITON

Based on 754 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This Cb radio antenna has 28 inch long and it is compatible with all CB Radio

Uniden: BEARCAT 880 CMX760 PC78LTX PC787

Cobra: 29LX 29LTD 29NW

Miland: 75-822 5001Z 1001LWX

Galaxy: DX-959B DX-949

President: McKinley USA ect



Magnetic mount

Center coil-loaded heavy duty spring

2 sections

Cable: 10 Feet(3M)

Extends to 28 inch(0.7m)

Magnetic base: 88mm

Impedance: 50Ω

Frequency: 27Mhz



Warning! Observe the maximum height on roads where will drive so that the antenna does not touch any installations or construction.

  • 1.Long Antenna - TALLER ANTENNAS = BETTER RANGE! 28 Inch long for ultimate range & receiving!
  • 2.FULL KIT - includes magnet mount with pre-intalled 10ft of coaxial cable, coil load, and stainless steel whip.
  • 3.Magnetic base - Improve reception by harnessing large metal surfaces.
  • 4.Weather Channel Capable, Covers all CB frequencies.
  • 5.Warranty would be valid for 12 months against manufacturing defect.

User questions & answers

Question: how come swr plays tricks sometimes! weather- atmosphere- like clouds- ect
Answer: Because radio waves, AM,FM,HF are all Electromagnetic.
Question: my antenna fluctuates at times checking the swr- after a couple of 2- 3 seconds it settles on a number and stays- not high swr- 1:5 or 6 - a problem
Answer: 1:5
Question: Can you trim this to tune it? My swr is way to high during calibrating and wont go down
Answer: never had to. my swr is 1.0. but i believe there is a tuning port on the base, uses a hex driver.
Question: my antenna fluctuates at times checking the swr- after a couple of 2- 3 seconds it settles on a number and stays- not high swr- 1:5 or 6 - a problem
Answer: Yes : A problem,If it's 1.5 or 2 that's cool but 6..NO do not key your mic at 6

ARIES 10813 3` Foot CB Radio Antenna KIT 500 WATT Mirror Mount and Coax

ARIES

Based on 154 reviews Check latest price

Product description

ARIES 10813 SINGLE 3` FOOT 500 WATT CB RADIO ANTENNA KIT W/ MIRROR MOUNT AND COAX (BLACK)

  • 3' FOOT BLACK FIBERGLASS ANTENNA RATED @ 500 WATTS
  • HEAVY DUTY ALUMINUM DOUBLE GROOVE MIRROR MOUNT W/ HEAVY DUTY BRASS ANTENNA STUDS
  • 9' FOOT RG59AU COAX WITH PL259 MOLDED ENDS

User questions & answers

Question: How long is the cable
Answer: 9' FOOT RG59AU COAX WITH PL259 MOLDED ENDS
Question: Does this antenna need to be grounded
Answer: No
Question: Is the antenna tunable
Answer: Yes, by removing the cap and either cutting off a little of the wire or pulling it up to correct the SWR.

Aries Automotive ARIES 10822 SINGLE 4` FOOT 500 WATT CB RADIO ANTENNA KIT W/MIRROR MOUNT AND COAX (BLACK)

Aries Automotive

Based on 420 reviews Check latest price

Product description

ARIES 10822 SINGLE 4` FOOT 500 WATT CB RADIO ANTENNA KIT W/ MIRROR MOUNT AND COAX (BLACK) Comes with 6 Foot Coax

  • 4' FIBERGLASS WHIP (BLACK)
  • 500 WATT POWER RATING
  • HEAVY DUTY DOUBLE GROOVE ALUMINUM MIRROR MOUNT
  • HEAVY DUTY ANTENNA STUD W/ 3/8 X 24 THREAD
  • 6' HIGH QUALITY COAX WITH MOLDED PL-259's

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with mounting bracket screws or bolts? If so what kind are they? Self tapping screws
Answer: No self tapping screws.....it attaches to a horizontal pole using the clamp seen in the image.
Question: anyone know the frequency range on this antenna
Answer: The CB band, 27MC.
Question: Whats the range of this antenna
Answer: About 3-10 miles depending on set up and signal obstructions.
Question: Anyone know the measurement between the mounting screws? If so is it bigger then 1 in
Answer: No, it's no bigger than 1 inch from screw to screw

K40 Model K-30 35" Magnet Mount Stainless Steel CB Antenna, 300 Watts

K40

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

K40 Model K-30 35" Magnet Mount Stainless Steel CB Antenna, 300 Watts

  • 300 Watts AM Power Handling Capability (ICAS)
  • 15' Pre-Wired RG-58AU 95% Shielded Coax Cable Stranded to Prevent Breakage
  • 35", 17-7 Stainless Steel Whip Antenna
  • Radius 180° Tip Eliminates Need for Ball
  • Heavy-Duty 4" 10oz. Magnet

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a 26-28mhz aerial
Answer: Mine came with a long whip that was centered on the high end of 26 Mhz out of the box. You will need to trim the whip to get the desired frequency range. Out of the box, mine was not tuned to the CB band (26.9 - 27.4 Mhz). I had to trim about an inch or two off, roughly. To cover the 10m Amateur band (28-29 Mhz) you would have to trim a lot more off. But note that the bandwidth of this antenna will not cover the entire 10m band. I believe mine will tune from 26.9 to 27.5 Mhz while remaining below 2:1 swr.
Question: Work with uniden bearcat cb radio with sideband 980ssb? thanks
Answer: yes. i have it on mine
Question: how far is the range
Answer: I wouldn't give $5.00 for a truck load of K-30s. I bought one and cannot get the SWR low enough to use it. On channel 1 the SWR is 1.2 , on channel 20 its 2.5 and on channel 40 its 3.2. That will burn up a radio. I talked to three other people who got one and have the same problem. A radio tech told me a wilson 1000 is the best. I haven't yet got one and just stopped using my cb till I can afford another antenna.
Question: Do you have to drill a hole in truck to connect the cable from the anntena to cb or can it be run through window
Answer: No drilling necessary. The antenna has transmission line ("coax") already attached to it - I forget the exact length, it's about 15 feet...with a common CB antenna connector at the end. The connector is called a "PL-259", it's cylindrical and measures between 0.720" - 0.730" (a trifle under 3/4") at the widest point. You can easily pass this through a window, but you might want to consider feeding the coax transmission line in around a weatherseal on a tilting window or hatch. The coax is about 1/4" diameter and most hatch-style windows easily close and latch over it without damage. The base of the antenna is magnetic, and does a very good job of holding the antenna in place. I mention this because I read somewhere Ford is introducing aluminum body trucks, hopefully nowhere we need antennas. Magnetic mounts won't work on aluminum.

Product features

K40 Antenna, Base Load, 35 in.

This 35” stainless steel CB antenna with 300 Watt AM power handling capability (ICAS) and has a base loaded coil. 15' pre-wired RG-58AU 95% shielded coax cable includes a PL259 connector and 4” Heavy-duty 10 ounce magnet. The radius 180° tip eliminates need for a ball. Proudly made in the USA.

  • 15' Pre-wired 95% shielded coax cable
  • 17-7 stainless steel whip antenna
  • Base loaded coil

Bingfu CB Antenna 27MHz CB Radio Antenna Soft Whip Magnetic Base CB Antenna BNC & PL259 Male Compatible with Cobra Midland Uniden Maxon President Portable Handheld CB Radio Car Mobile Radio Scanner

Bingfu

Based on 199 reviews Check latest price
  • Compatible with all handheld CB radios from many brand with a BNC connector, improve quality and range to CB radio reception. The antenna design is soft, flexible and durable, works on all channel within CB radio frequency range of 26MHz to 27 MHz.
  • Max Input Power: 30W; Frequency: 27MHz; Antenna Mounting Connector Type: BNC Male Connector; Length: 9.9 inch / 25cm; Weight: 420g;
  • Feature: with 5.5cm Diameter Magnetic Base; Cable Type: RG58/U Coaxial Cable; Cable Length: 3m / 10 feet; Cable Connector Type: BNC Male Connector; Accessories: UHF PL-259 Male Connector Adapter;
  • Package List: 1 x Antenna, 1 x Magnetic Base, 1 x Connector Adapter (As the Picture Shown);
  • Compatible with Handheld CB Radios: Uniden PRO401HH PRO501HH PC88LTX, Cobra HH30WXST H38WXST HHRT50, Midland 75-785 75-822 7W44, Maxon HCB-10C;

User questions & answers

Question: Do you have to manually tune this antenna
Answer: I don't know. It was a piece of junk so I sent it back. Do not purchase!!
Question: Does this antenna require a ground
Answer: no
Question: Can you unscrew the antenna and screw it into another base
Answer: Yes because it come separate when shipped

Prostick 2` Foot Fiberglass 1000 Watt - Black CB Radio Antenna

Prostick

Based on 413 reviews Check latest price
  • 1000 Watt Rating – gives desired amount of power
  • Exclusive “VibraSorb” Anti-breakage Design – improves life of product
  • Factory Tuned: 26.000 to 29.500 MHz
  • Fiberglass Mast joined to Nickel Plated Brass Ferrule – durable and quality materials to last longer
  • Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: How is this tuned
Answer: It is tuneable, but rather involved. I always look here before attempting to tune this type of antenna. http://www.firestik.com/Tech_Docs/Setting_SWR.htm
Question: What is the optimum length of coax for 3 ft antenna
Answer: Not sure on the 3ft but my 2ft gets about 5miles or better. Hope that helps
Question: What kind of mount does this have, male or female
Answer: The prostick is male
Question: What are the swr readings for this and how is it with a uniden pro510xl cb
Answer: Not sure not a high end antenna

President Electronics New Virginia (Formerly Called New York UP) Magnetic Mount CB Radio Antenna

President Electronics

Based on 19 reviews Check latest price

Product description

VIRGINIA - President 1/4 Wave 19.69 Inch Magnetic Dual Helical CB Antenna, The New Virginia Black 26-28 MHZ 250 watt 1/4 wave magnetic mount CB antenna features a low profile (19.69" tall) footprint to look sharp on any vehicle. The Virginia is weather channel compatible and has a dual helical whip that can be adjusted from 60-100 degrees. Coax cable is 12 fee long and SWR is pre-adjusted to 1.1/1., , , Antenna type, :, 1/4 wave, , , Impedance, :, 50 Ohms, , , Frequency, :, 26-28 MHz, , , Polarization, :, Vertical, , , S.W.R. value, :, 1,1/1 preadjusted, , , Gain, :, + 3 dBi, , , Maximum power, :, 250 Watt P.E.P, , , Band width / Number of channels, :, 800 kHz (80 cx), , , Weight, :, 0.210 kg, , , Length, :, 500 mm, , , Base type, :, Magnetic, , , Reclining, :, , , , Dismantled magnetic base, :, , , , Whip, :, Dual helical

  • Type: 1/4 wave; Impedance: 50 Ohms
  • Frequency: 26-28 MHz
  • SWR Value: 1.1/1 pre-adjusted
  • BW / # of Channels: 800 KHz / 80 Channels
  • Length: 19.69 inches ; Whip: Dual Helical

User questions & answers

Question: The antenna appears to be 'floppy'. Is there a way to set the angle solidly in my chosen position? - I know, I don't have the instructions to read
Answer: I do t know what that is. But, I do like chicken and waffles.
Question: what is the power rating
Answer: I have a DW6900 and it worked great. I only bought it for the hardware.
Question: Take the rubber boot off.. or leave it on....wondering if I’d get better ground with it off......Thanks
Answer: no this is a unique band made to fit this specific watch.
Question: What determines the angle to set the antenna?..... Thanks
Answer: black only here. . check with Casio customer service for other options.

Midland Center Load Mag Mount Mobile CB Radio Antenna - 17-7 Stainless Steel Whip

Based on 349 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Center Load Mag Mount Antenna

>

30" Stainless Steel Whip

>

17 ft Prewired Cable and Connector

>

Works with all Midland Mobile CB Radios

>

  • Midland Center Load Magnetic Mount Antenna
  • 30" Stainless Steel Whip
  • 17 ft Prewired Cable and Connector
  • Works with all Midland Mobile CB Radios

User questions & answers

Question: Is this antenna tune for the Midland 75-822 CB
Answer: Holes on the board
Question: How wide is the magnetic base
Answer: There are no preset settings
Question: Does this fit the midland
Answer: No it is not. I have a connex in a 29 ltd. Wish I could hear these boards before I buy them. This aint a bad board but I just like the connex or galaxy boards better.One thing about this one it,s LOUD.
Question: Will the magnet hold going 70-80mph in the freewway
Answer: The F20-Carbon 1 bat will require minimal break-in...approximately 35-40 swings. Thanks!

RoadPro (RP-711) 24" Magnet Mount Stainless Steel CB Antenna Kit

RoadPro

Based on 385 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A sleek, slim easy-to-use solution for any CB application. Nine-foot coax cable offers plenty of length for most vehicles and strong magnetic base ensures your antenna stays put – no matter where the road takes you. Another great innovation from RoadPro, your trusted travel companion, bringing the comforts of home to on-the-go living.

  • Center Loaded CB Antenna with 9’ Coax Cable
  • Strong Magnetic Base
  • Includes Magnet Mount, Coax Cable, and Antenna

User questions & answers

Question: Will this work with a ge 3-5869a 40 channel cb
Answer: Yes, wll work with low swr's on all 40 channels
Question: So how can it help my hand held cb radio? Does it plug in somehow
Answer: My handheld CB had a adapter on it to hook up to it. If yours did not come with one, check and see if one is available for yours. All I had to do is tune it to my radio.
Question: Can the antenna be changed with another one
Answer: Not sure
Question: What type of Range does this antenna have
Answer: normal range for mobile CB with 4 watt output power can get 1 - 5 mile range depending on terrain, base to mobile with 4 watt power output can be 5 - 10 miles depending on terrain and base station antenna.

Product features

RoadPro (RP-711) 24" Magnet Mount Stainless Steel CB Antenna Kit

With an aerodynamic design, this CB antenna kit has a 24 center loaded copper coil stainless steel CB antenna and a pre-wired magnetic mount base with 9' coax cable.

  • 24 Center loaded copper coil stainless steel CB antenna
  • Pre-wired magnetic mount base with 9' coax cable
  • Aerodynamic design

FireStik FS-4BK 4' (r) Ii Fs Series Tunable Tip Cb Antenna - 900 Watts Black

FireStik

Based on 888 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Firestik FS-4BK 4' Firestik(R) II FS Series Tunable Tip CB Antenna - 900 Watts Black (1 Each)

  • 5/8 Wave Length Design Rated @ 900 Watts
  • Can be Used in Single or Dual Configurations
  • Requires Fine Tuning (SWR)
  • Easy-Tune Bare-Hands Tunable Tip
  • Hi-Performance Loading Coil

User questions & answers

Question: would this work with a Midland
Answer: Shipping of all my items is done by Amazon (Fulfilled by Amazon), you will have to check with them.
Question: Can this be used with a gmrs radio
Answer: It will but you may need longer bolts depending on the tube diameter.
Question: is this fs-4bk fire stick compatible with my 520xl uniden radio? and will it screw on to my magnetic mount
Answer: only if the outside rear view mirror has a round mounting. It is designed to fit the outside rear view mirrors on an 18-wheeler
Question: Can this be used with a dual band vhf/uhf radio? (136-174/400-480 mhz)(vhf 25 watt uhf 20 watt) i am looking for a cb style antenna for my truck
Answer: It would depend on where you mount it. I mounted mine to an ungrounded surface, (plastics cab extenders), so I ran a ground wire. Hope this helps.

Stryker SR-A10MM Magnetic Mount CB & 10-Meter Radio Antenna

STRYKER

Based on 254 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Stryker sr-a10mm magnetic mount Cb/10 meter radio Antenna

  • 6 Gauge Solid Copper 100% Silver Plate Wire
  • Extremely Efficient High “Q” Coil
  • Powerful 5" diameter magnetic base
  • 10,000 Watts Power Handling Capability
  • 2 Year Warranty

User questions & answers

Question: How long is the coax
Answer: 16-18’
Question: Can you use this with gmrs systems
Answer: For gmrs you're going to want a genuine Nagoya UT-72. Btech has the genuine article. I swept it with a VNA and it has very low SWR through the GMRS band. I also have a Nagoya mag mount with the SMA connector - the UT-308UV and it's not as broad on UHF. Good for the 70cm ham band, but it's SWR doesn't stretch into GMRS range as well.
Question: can this be used on a DX2547 base radio
Answer: Your gonna find its a damn great antenna but most base stations have a taller antenna but paired with my Stryker 497 getting 17 miles roughly
Question: How would this work on a cobra
Answer: I run a Cobra 29 LX w/ an Astatic RD104 mic and this Stryker antenna. SWR’s are near flat across all 40, TX & RX are amazing. I definitely recommend this antenna.

Prostick 2` Foot Fiberglass 1000 Watt - Black CB Radio Antenna with Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Spring

Based on 69 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Fiberglass Mast joined to Nickel Plated Brass Ferrule – durable and quality materials to last longer. Includes Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Antenna Spring

  • 1000 Watt Rating – gives desired amount of power
  • Exclusive “VibraSorb” Anti-breakage Design – improves life of product
  • Broad Tuning Range: 26.000 to 29.500 MHz
  • Fiberglass Mast joined to Nickel Plated Brass Ferrule – durable and quality materials to last longer
  • Includes Heavy Duty Stainless Steel Antenna Spring

User questions & answers

Question: How does it power? Does it have to be hardwired or use adapter? Thanks
Answer: Well, I guess it has to be wired in to have power and I am not sure what you mean by "use adapter" I have mine in my diesel dump truck and it is wired to the cigarette lighter power wire and seems to do just fine. Make sure you keep the inline fuse in the wiring though.
Question: Is the speaker a pa speaker
Answer: No. The model up from this one has a pa.
Question: Is this the 4 watt radio or
Answer: 4 watt is the legal threshold for all CB (Citizens Band) radios produced and used in America.
Question: Does the kit come with decent installation instructions? I'm new to the CB world and haven't put one in before
Answer: yes very easy to install

Nagoya CB-72 28" CB Antenna (26-28 MHz), Center Coil-Loaded Heavy Duty Spring with Magnetic Mount, Includes 18' of RG-58A/U Cable with a PL-259 Connector

BTECH

Based on 188 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Nagoya CB-72 is a 70cm (~28 inch) CB antenna. It is designed to be used with your fixed mount or mobile mount CB radio. Easily install the antenna with the included heavy duty magnetic mount (the antenna must be magnetically installed for optimal antenna performance)



The CB-72 antenna, when mounted vertically is omni-directional which allows it to receive signal from all directions. It uses a very heavy duty rare earth magnet on its 3.5 inch magnetic mount and is the perfect antenna for cars, pickup trucks, vans, SUVs, and on tractors and semi-trucks.



With 18 feet of Heavy Duty RG-58A/U you are able to set up your Antenna on almost any vehicle application. The antenna itself is 4mm thick compared to the usual 2.5mm antennas found on most CB vehicle magnetic mounts.



Specs:

50 Ω (ohm)

V.S.W.R.: ≤ 1.5:1

Length: 28"

Color: Stainless Steel & Black



For use on: 26-28MHz (CB)



Package:

1x Nagoya CB-72 Antenna (with magnetic base and 18' Coax)

Allen Wrench for Assembly



Compatible with:

All Mobile CB Radios with UHF (SO-239) Connectors

  • Easy To Install, Omni-Directional, Measures ~28.5 inches, Stainless Steel Antenna
  • Extra Long 18' of Premium RG-58A/U Coax, the CB-72 Covers all CB frequencies, No tuning needed, Solid Brass NMO Mount with Satin finish, Gold plunger-type contact pin
  • Includes a PL-259 connector (for connection right to common CB radio connections found on CB radios (SO-239 connector))
  • Pairs Great with CB radios such as the Uniden PRO505XL or Bearcat 980SSB / 880, or with the Cobra 19 DX IV,
  • Heavy Duty Magnetic Mount (3.5"); Note the antenna must be magnetically mounted for the best performance and lowest SWR

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a rubber pad over the magnet
Answer: Yes there is a rubber pas over the magnet. It has a good magnet and won’t fly off coming down the road

for Jeep Wrangler TJ 97-06 CB Radio Antenna Mounting Bracket

U-Box

Based on 234 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Antenna Mount Bracket for Jeep Wrangler 97-06

  • Fits for 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ Models
  • Antenna Mount Bracket
  • Fixed antenna;Weight: 1.1 lbs
  • Durable Black Powder Coat Finish
  • Simple Bolt-On Installation

User questions & answers

Question: What size is the antenna mounting hole
Answer: .70 inches
Question: Will this fit a small led light
Answer: If you have the 3 holes that the normal tail light mounts to then yes.
Question: Will this get in the way of a smittybuilt xrc rear tire swing
Answer: Not 100% sure but since it’s mounted on the taillights it should not.
Question: Anyone know if this mount can hold a 3/8" x 24 antenna thread
Answer: Yes.

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