Best CB Radios, Shortwave & Portable Radio Reviews

From truckers staying connected on long hauls to hobbyists chasing distant shortwave signals late at night, the right radio gear makes all the difference. This category brings together over 50 in-depth reviews and buying guides covering CB radios, Baofeng handhelds, shortwave receivers, portable AM/FM radios, and all the accessories in between — antennas, coax cables, microphones, and more — so you can buy with confidence no matter your experience level.

What This Category Covers

Whether you're picking up your first handheld or upgrading a base station setup, you'll find a guide here that matches exactly where you are. Our reviews cover:

• CB radios for trucks, off-road rigs, & home base stations
• Baofeng UV-5R, UV-82, BF-F8HP & head-to-head comparisons
• Shortwave radios for news, weather, & international broadcasts
• Handheld CB radios for trail riding, camping, & emergency use
• CB antennas — magnetic mounts, base station antennas, & coax cables
• CB microphones for clearer, more reliable transmissions
• Portable AM/FM radios & clock radios for everyday listening
• SSB CB radios for long-range, low-noise communication

New to Radio Gear? Start Here

If you're just getting started, the sheer number of radio types and specs can feel overwhelming. CB radios operate on 40 shared channels and don't require a license — making them the go-to choice for truckers and off-roaders. Baofeng handhelds offer incredible value for budget-conscious hobbyists, though a Technician license is required to transmit on most frequencies. Shortwave radios are receive-only devices that let you pull in broadcasts from around the globe. Our beginner buying guides break down the jargon — SSB, SWR, watts, gain — in plain language so you understand exactly what you're paying for before you click buy.

Accessories Matter as Much as the Radio

A great radio is only as good as the antenna it's paired with. A poorly matched antenna can kill your range, raise your SWR into dangerous territory, and even damage your radio over time. That's why we've dedicated entire guides to CB antennas, magnetic mounts, coax cables, and microphones — so you can build a complete, well-matched system rather than guessing at compatibility. Whether you're wiring up a truck, mounting a base station antenna at home, or just replacing a worn-out mic, you'll find straightforward recommendations backed by real-world testing.

Pick a guide below and get closer to the radio setup that's right for you.