Uniden
BEARCAT 980SSB CB Radio
Best high-performance radio for professional truckers and off-road adventurers.
Communicate clearly on the road with the Uniden Bearcat 980SSB CB Radio. This high-performance unit offers 40 AM channels and SSB (Upper/Lower Sideband) frequencies for versatile connectivity. Its large, vibrant 7-inch color digital display provides excellent readability, complemented by a noise-canceling microphone for enhanced audio clarity. Designed for truckers and off-road enthusiasts, it ensures reliable communication with features like instant access to emergency channels and NOAA Weather Alerts, making it an essential tool for any journey.
$171.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
10
/ 103
#10 in CB Radios
Price vs Category Average
+17%
Above average
Frequency Range
26.96527.405
/ ~ MHz
Who it's for
- Long-distance drivers needing reliable communication range
- Drivers requiring high visibility in various lighting conditions
- Safety-conscious operators wanting integrated diagnostic and weather tools
Who should skip it
- Drivers with limited dashboard or console space
- Novice users seeking simple, plug-and-play operation
- Operators looking for extreme range beyond legal limits
Performance breakdown
Signal Versatility
SSB capability provides significantly greater range and clarity than standard AM radios.
Display Readability
The oversized color screen ensures vital data remains visible at a glance.
Audio Clarity
Noise-canceling microphone effectively filters out intrusive cabin and road background noise.
Calibration Precision
Integrated SWR meter makes antenna tuning straightforward for optimal signal performance.
Safety Integration
NOAA weather alerts and emergency channel access provide essential real-time safety updates.
Ergonomic Control
Backlit buttons and intuitive knob placement allow for easy night-time operation.
Key Specs
Frequency Range
26.965 ~ 27.405 MHz
Modulation Types
AM, USB, LSB
Display Type
7" Color Digital Display (LCD)
Microphone Connector Type
6-Pin Uniden
Current Draw Transmit
2 Amp
Dimensions (Case Length)
7 5/8"
Built-in Meter
Large Digital S/RF/SWR Meter
Automatic Noise Limiter
ANL/Noise Blanking
Features
- 40 AM channels plus SSB operation
- Large 7-inch color digital display
- Noise-canceling microphone included
- Instant access to emergency channels 9/19
- NOAA Weather Alert reception
- Dynamic Squelch and RF Gain controls
- Backlit control knobs and buttons
- Wireless microphone compatible
What customers say
The Uniden BEARCAT 980SSB earns high praise for its exceptional performance and modern design, appealing to both pros and enthusiasts. Users consistently highlight the outstanding clarity and range provided by the robust Single Side Band feature, ensuring reliable long-distance communication. The large, customizable color display enhances visibility and ease of use while driving. A key benefit is the integrated SWR meter, which simplifies antenna tuning for optimal power. Audio quality for transmission and reception is clear and powerful out of the box. While the radio is powerful and reliable, some suggest upgrading the stock microphone for even better transmission. Overall, this feature-packed radio offers outstanding value and solidifies its reputation as a modern CB classic.
Know before you buy
SSB operation allows you to communicate over much longer distances than standard AM channels. It is more efficient and provides clearer audio, making it a preferred choice for long-haul truckers and hobbyists looking to reach stations further away.
Yes, it features a large, integrated digital SWR meter. This allows you to easily calibrate your antenna system for optimal performance and protect your radio from damage caused by high reflected power.
Absolutely. The unit features a large, vibrant 7-inch color display and backlit control knobs and buttons, ensuring all settings and channels are clearly visible in dark environments.
Yes, the Bearcat 980SSB is compatible with wireless microphone systems, giving you more flexibility and freedom of movement inside your vehicle compared to a standard wired setup.
The included noise-canceling microphone is specifically designed to filter out background engine and road noise. This ensures your voice comes through clearly to other drivers, even in noisy cab environments.
Yes, it includes built-in NOAA Weather Alert reception. This feature automatically monitors local weather channels and alerts you to incoming severe weather, providing an extra layer of safety on the road.
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