The selection of a good CB antenna is critical for CB radios. CB antennas decide the performance of your CB set-up. You might already be knowing that all the CB radios are pretty much alike regarding power. The power is either 4 Watts or 12 Watts (in the case of SSB CBs). With identical power, the performance should be the same for all CB radios, right? But it is different and this is where CB antennas make difference.
Powerful CB antennas can improve the overall performance of your CB radio by transceiving higher miles. However, finding the best CB radio antenna for long-range is not easy as it sounds. This is because:
- There are hundreds of CB radio antennas in the market and it’s hard to test each.
- You have to choose the right antenna type(whip/magnetic/fiberglass etc.) which is compatible with your vehicle or need.
Our team has decided to do the hard work of testing different CB antennas to pick the best one in the market. This article is our findings based on our tests of CB antennas and interviewing of different CB radio users. So, if you are looking for strong CB antennas to boost your CB radio’s range, you might find one from here.
Let’s get started!
Best CB Radio Antenna; Our Top Picks
Here is a list of our top choices:
- Wilson 305-492- Editor’s Choice
- Firestik FS-3BK: Most Durable CB Antenna
- Wilson 305-38: Customers’ Pick
- Wilson 1000 Series
- K40 K-30 CB Antenna
- TRAM 3-B-HC
- Hustler IC-56: Longest range
We have given detailed reviews of all these 7 antennas later in this article. However, if you are in a hurry the below comparison will help you choose the right CB radio antenna for you.
1. Wilson 305-492
- Amazing Center load antenna
- Rated at 3500 watts
- Center loaded coil
- Highly flexible and sturdy
- Great clarity
2. Firestik FS-3BK
- Top-rated Fiberglass CB radio antenna
- Good quality antenna
- Sturdy construction
- Easily tunable
- Great reception
3. Wilson 305-38
- Heavy-duty coil
- Stainless steel whip
- Secure mount
- Excellent range
4. Wilson 1000
- Top magnetic CB antenna
- Weather channel ready
- Powerful magnet mount
- Great Value for money
- It can potentially handle 3000+ watts
5. K40 K40A
- No drilling necessary
- Works well out of the package
- Clear signals and long-range
- Well-made
6. TRAM 3-B-HC
- Heavy-duty fiberglass construction
- 1500 watts power rating
- Excellent clarity and performance
- Value for money
7. Hustler IC-56
- Resists bending
- 8.5 feet long
- Tough build
- Reduces unwanted static
Best CB Antenna Reviews
xRoadGPS team has spent countless hours testing 32+ CB antennas in the market to find out the top picks. Here are the detailed reviews top 7 CB radio antennas you can buy.
1. Wilson 305-492 – Our Top Choice & Top rated center-loaded whip Antenna
An amazing center loaded CB antenna which is a compelling choice for most drivers!
What You Will Love:
- It is rated at 3500 watts
- Works well for roof and trunk mounts
- Highly recommended for large trucks
- Very flexible and lightweight
- Requires tuning and adjustment
This center-loaded antenna from Wilson handles a power capacity of 3,500. Many users have termed it as the best thing you can get for your CB radio.
I have to tell you that this CB antenna may not be the easiest to trim and tune. However, the clarity it offers is unmatchable. It is a brilliant choice for big trucks and those looking to maximize their range. Experienced truck drivers have found the product to be long-lasting, sturdy, and durable.
Although Wilson 305-492 is a bit large in size, it’s highly flexible and lightweight.
2. Firestik FS-3BK – Popular fiberglass antenna
Firestik is a brilliantly capable fiberglass antenna that is stylish, efficient, and easy-to-use.
What You Will Love:
- Easily tuned
- Flexible and rugged
- Reduces static
- Offers loud and clear reception
- Efficiently clears parking systems and garages
We cannot emphasize enough; Firestik is, hands down, the best fiberglass CB antenna in the market. This antenna whip is made with rust-proof brass. Additionally, the CB antenna has a static-reducing, water-tight sleeve containing a pigment stabilizer.
This 3 feet tall CB antenna is an ideal choice for off-roading and talking to partners in groups. The clear reception and tunable tip make it a perfect choice.
It may get tricky for you to find a replacement for this antenna, for this sure sells like hotcakes!
3. Wilson 305-38 – Customer’s favorite
A high-end choice that provides exceptional range
What You Will Love:
- Tough antenna whip: withstands smashes
- Easy to adjust
- Incredibly strong base
- Great-looking antenna
- Easily removable
Why look for more when you have a reputable brand like Wilson? Known for its premium quality and superior customer support, the brand has introduced excellent products one after the other. The Wilson 305-38 is no less!
Little Wil seems to have a very high reception for its size and price. The massive and durable base is another notable feature worthy of appreciation. Its sturdy magnetic mount stays put even in hurricane winds!
However, you should note that the antenna requires adjustment and tuning. If you’re wondering how to tune it, let’s help you! Participant in the Amazon has found it to be easy to tune. In case you don’t want to risk it, you can even hand it over to technicians to get the job done.
4. Wilson 1000 –
Wilson 1000 series is highly powerful and long-lasting best for every person
What You Will Love:
- Works exceptionally right out of the box
- Easy to set up
- Increases range by several miles
- Well worth the price
- Magnet withstands torrential rain and high winds
Wilson 1000 series is a magnificent product, made to suit both newbies and experts! The brand ensures there is no room for error with its flawless magnetic CB antenna. In fact, this is the best magnetic CB antenna you can get.
The top-of-the-line product offers clarity and ease of communication with its premium performance. Moreover, the tall antenna handles wind at highway speed! The best part is: the base won’t budge and lets you drive stress-free!
If you’re considering the Wilson 1000, the product is worth the price. It is the exact length needed for a perfect SWR reading!
5. K40 K-30 – Sturdy and durable
K-30 by K40 is the ultimate choice for off-road riders.
What You Will Love:
- Works well even without trimming and tuning
- Great quick-detach antenna
- No permanent modification required
- Withstands smashes
- Plenty of coax cable
It is no secret that K40 sells some of the best antennas. The K-30 is a similar product with all the top-notch features known to be the best. Fortunately for all the newbies and amateurs, the CB antenna does not require much fine-tuning. It works well right out of the box!
Although it clears most parking areas and garages, you can unscrew and detach the antenna anytime you want. The procedure is swift and comfortable, and to top it all, it does not damage your vehicle. The antenna comes well-packaged with plenty of coaxes to support easy installation.
Tell you what, most antennas slide off the roof at high speeds. But this, magnetic mount won’t budge! Doesn’t that sound like a dream that most CB users dream of?
Not only that, but this antenna also comes out scratch-free even after collisions with tree branches!
6. TRAM 3-B-HC – Pocket-friendly
The best cheap fiberglass CB antenna available today!
What You Will Love:
- Heavy-duty construction
- Minimalistic appearance
- Excellent clarity and performance
- Fantastic tuned antenna
Find the other brands and their antennas to be expensive. Don’t worry! The TRAM 3-B-HC is a popular choice among drivers for its budget-friendly price. The affordability doesn’t mean the product is of lower quality!
In reality, the product is just as great as many high-end ones. The heavy-duty construction and sturdy build are what make it a top choice. The best part is its minimalistic appearance, which is compatible with most vehicles!
Unlike many of the other fiberglass antennas, this one comes already tuned. That means there is no hassle of adjusting this antenna. This noticeable feature is what contributes to TRAM’s high-class performance and efficiency!
7. Hustler IC-56 : CB Antenna for Longest Range
Hustler IC-56 is a sturdy CB antenna for long-range communication
What You Will Love:
- Dissipation ball reduces unwanted static
- Tough build
- Improves CB range
- Does not bend
- Requires a heavy-duty spring
This 102” whip mobile CB antenna has the perfect length and power rating needed to maximize efficiency. What makes it one of the finest in the market is its static-reducing feature. This is the best CB base station antenna in the market.
Moreover, the robust construction allows it to resist damage, bend, and kink. This feature enables the product to live longer, making it a user favorite!
The antenna precisely delivers what you’re looking for: efficiency, affordability, and high performance. Its commendable performance can be noted from its added range coverage of 7 to 10 miles.
Top CB Antennas: Comparison
| Product | Type | Length | Weight | Power Rating |
| Wilson 1000 | Magnet Mount | 62.5” | 3 lbs | 3000 watts |
| Wilson 305-38 | Magnet Mount | 36” | 2 lbs | 300 watts |
| Firestik FS-3BK | Fiberglass | 36” | 0.01 lbs | 650 watts |
| K40 K-30 | Magnet Mount | 35” | 0.01 lbs | 300 watts |
| TRAm 3-B-HC | Fiberglass | 36” | 0.43 lbs | 1500 watts |
| Hustler IC-56 | 102” | 102” | 0.8 lbs | 500 watts |
| Wilson 305-492 | Center-loaded | 49” | 0.01 lbs | 3500 watts |
How to Choose the Right CB Antenna?
Here are some of the things you should focus on while choosing a CB antenna:
Know the Types of CB Antennas
If you think that any antenna could work with your type of vehicle, you may be wrong! When purchasing a CB radio antenna, you must find one that is compatible with your car/truck.
Take a glance at the different types of CB antennas :
| Types | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Magnetic | Easy installation Excellent performance Most preferred choice Doesn’t require alterations of vehicle It can be removed without damaging the vehicle | May have clearance issues |
| Fiberglass | Best for 4×4 and off-roaders Highly durable It can be mounted anywhere! It can sustain the abuse of off-road use. | Mount and coax will need to be purchased separately |
| Whip Antenna | Exceptional performance Vast range Designed for serious CB users. Inexpensive Sustains damage | Enormous |
| Center loaded | Higher-watt capacity More efficient Best for large trucks and tractor-trailers | Damage-prone |
Which CB Antenna Type works Best for you?
We’re hopeful that you may now see how evident it is that not every type will be suitable for every vehicle.
- For example, when it comes to cars, magnet base antennas work best. They are easy to install, affordable, and work well to match the 102” whips. You can install them in the center of the roof for the best performance.
- On the other hand, fiberglass top-loaded and center-loaded antennas are more suitable for semi-trucks or pickups.
How Long Should Your Antenna be?
The length of the antenna is directly proportionate to the range it offers. The taller the whip, the better performance you get out of it. In the case of large trucks looking for a vast range of distance, you should opt for a 102” whip antenna.
It approximately covers 7 to 10 miles which is a good enough radius. Whereas, the 5’ magnetic base antennas typically fall short of 7 miles.
For base station antennas, it is challenging to offer an estimate as terrain plays a vital role. Though, a well-installed antenna should provide at least 15 miles of range.
Center-loaded antennas typically provide a 7 to 10 miles range.
Look for Durable Antennas
The construction and build of the products should be sturdy to withstand harsh climate conditions. They should be able to resist strong wind and adverse climatic conditions.
When purchasing a magnet-mount CB antenna for your car or truck, always opt for a robust base. It helps in mounting it to the roof with absolute ease. Moreover, the thermoplastic covering like that on Wilson 1000 and 305-38 increases product life and durability.
Warranty and Support
Quite often, drivers complain of their CB antennas going bad. It could be due to poor quality or defective pieces.
In such a case, a warranty and the brand’s customer support can be quite a relief. Most brands are prompt at responding to complaints regarding defects and damages.
Some of the top brands also offer a warranty that covers the product for a good two years!
Here are a few more tips from Firestik regarding CB antennas.
FAQs
What is a CB antenna?
A CB antenna is a device that helps the transmission and reception of radio-frequency signals to and from a CB radio. You can call it as the first point in receiving signals and the last point in transmitting signals in a CB system.
What is the strongest CB antenna?
Fiberglass CB antennas like TRAM 3-B-HC, Francis 300-CB22B, and Prostick 2` are some of the strongest CB radio antennas.
Which CB antenna has the longest range?
CB antennas that give the longest range are 102″ stainless steel whip CB antennas. With the long length, they can transceive and receive at much higher miles compared to other antenna types. Some of them are Hustler IC-56, Hustler Redman, and Pro Trucker.
Are dual CB antennas better?
Dual antennas are a popular choice among big rigs. This configuration helps in the case when cabs/trailers block signals on the other side of the truck.
Say there is only one antenna on the driver’s side of the truck. Much of the signal would not radiate from the passenger side, impacting the message in that direction. By having a dual system, they allow signals to radiate on both sides.
However, this isn’t a practical setup for most vehicles. It would result in unwanted signal radiation.
How long should my CB radio antenna be?
Taller CB antennas are the ideal choice for a range of distances. The optimal length of the CB antennas is 102 inches or 8.5 feet. However, this length is mostly impractical for most mobile applications. Manufacturers have resolved the issue with a more practical solution: coils. It helps with clearance for garages and parking structures while still offering a vast range.
Where to buy CB antenna?
You can buy them locally from CB shops near you or through online stores like Amazon, eBay, rightchannelradios.com, wearecb.com, etc.
How to tell if CB antenna is bad?
Use a multimeter to touch the probes to the metallic end of the antenna. With fiberglass antennas, you will need to perform the step with the tunable tip on the antenna’s end. It will be the stainless steel whip in the case of center-loaded or magnetic antennas.
The next step is to connect the other probe to the metallic threads at the end of the antenna. By doing this, you measure the circuit resistance.
It should show little to no resistance. However, if you find total resistance, it indicates that one of the antenna components may be defective and in need of replacement
What does a CB antenna warning mean?
CB antenna warning indicates a poor connection. It could damage the radio if not fixed promptly.
How to fix the CB antenna warning?
Use an external SWR meter to assess the problem. Take your time analyzing where the problem is before bench-testing the radio. If you get bad SWR (3 to 1 or worse), you should plan on replacing your antenna and coax with a new one.
How to ground a CB antenna at home?
There are two ways you can ground a CB antenna at home.
- Through the trunk lid. One handy spot can be the screw under the lip of the trunk. Keep in mind; it may not be practical owing to the trunk lid hinges. To overcome this problem, you can add a ground strap using a short flat braid.
- Through a nearby door. For this, you will need to bypass the door hinge. You can do this by running the ground from the door to the door pillar. Make sure to attach the ground to metal rather than plastic or other materials.
Conclusion
Contrary to what it seems, picking a good CB antenna is not an easy task. However, it’s a must to get the best performance out of your CB radio.
Most experts know which antenna to choose for their vehicle type, while many beginners fail! However, with our comprehensive guide and tips, there is no way you’re getting the wrong antenna brand or model for your vehicle. We hope our reviews of hot-selling long-range CB radio antennas will undoubtedly help to ace your game.
What are you waiting for?
Hit the stores now for the best.