Uniden BEARCAT 980 CB Radio: 40-Channel SSB with NOAA Weather

Category: Best for Truckers

Key Features

40-Channel SSB CB Radio with Sideband NOAA WeatherBand
7-Color Digital Display PA/CB Switch
Noise Cancelling Mic for Crystal Clear Communication
Wireless Mic Compatibility with Uniden BC906W CB Wireless Microphone
Illuminated Control Panel with Laser Etched Keys for Easy Use in All Lighting Conditions

Overview and First Impressions

The Uniden BEARCAT 980 is a robust and multifunctional radio designed to cater to various outdoor activities, from off-road adventures to daily commutes. Its large easy-to-read display and illuminated control panel make it ideal for use in different lighting conditions. The 7-color digital display with PA/CB switch provides excellent visibility and customization options.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the BEARCAT 980 is clean, modern, and durable. Its dimensions are compact (4 x 15.1 x 8.6 inches) making it easy to fit on a dashboard or in a vehicle storage compartment. The build quality is solid, with all components well-constructed and well-assembled. The radio features a high-quality speaker and noise-cancelling microphone that enhance the overall user experience.

Setup and Ease of Use

The setup process for the Uniden BEARCAT 980 is straightforward and easy to follow. The included manual provides detailed instructions, making it accessible even for beginners. Once set up, the radio's intuitive control panel allows users to switch between CB channels, NOAA weather bands, and PA modes with ease. The laser-etched keys are durable and resistant to wear, ensuring long-lasting use.

Audio Quality

The audio quality of the BEARCAT 980 is excellent for its price point. The high-quality speaker provides clear and crisp sound, making it suitable for both CB communication and listening to music or podcasts. The noise-cancelling microphone further enhances the audio experience by reducing background noise, allowing for crystal-clear communication.

Range and Performance

The range of the BEARCAT 980 is impressive, especially considering its size and price point. It can operate over a wide frequency band, including emergency channels, providing reliable communication in various environments. The radio's performance is consistent across different terrains and weather conditions, making it ideal for off-road adventures and long-distance commuting.

Features and Functionality

The BEARCAT 980 offers a plethora of features that cater to various user needs. It supports SSB (Single Sideband) operation, which is more efficient than AM for communication. The inclusion of NOAA weather bands provides real-time weather updates directly from the radio. Additionally, the integrated wireless microphone compatibility makes it an ideal choice for group communications and events.

Power Options

The BEARCAT 980 runs on two customer-specific batteries, which need to be purchased separately. The radio has a long runtime of 100 minutes on a single charge, making it suitable for extended use without frequent recharging. It also features a self-charging system, ensuring that the battery remains fully charged even when not in use.

Antenna Compatibility

The antenna compatibility with the BEARCAT 980 is excellent. The radio includes a high-gain whip antenna, which provides strong reception over long distances. Users can also connect additional antennas for improved performance, making it versatile for various environments.

Performance in Use

I have used the Uniden BEARCAT 980 extensively during off-road adventures and daily commutes. Its reliability and ease of use make it a valuable asset on the go. The ability to switch between different modes (CB, NOAA weather, PA) is particularly useful when traveling through varying terrains and conditions. The noise-cancelling microphone has been a game-changer in noisy environments, enhancing communication quality.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

High-quality audio and noise-canceling microphone for clear communication
Wide frequency range and emergency channel support
Intuitive control panel with laser-etched keys
Durable build quality and compact design
Long runtime and self-charging system
Noise-cancelling microphone reduces background noise

Cons:

Requires customer-specific batteries, which need to be purchased separately
The radio is not waterproof or dustproof, which could be a drawback for some users
No built-in speaker system; requires an external speaker or headphone jack

Final Verdict and Recommendation

The Uniden BEARCAT 980 is an excellent all-around radio that offers outstanding features and performance. Its reliability, ease of use, and robust design make it a great choice for truckers, emergency responders, hobbyists, and anyone who needs reliable communication on the go. While it may not be waterproof or have a built-in speaker system, its price point makes it an excellent value for money. If you're looking for a comprehensive radio that can handle various outdoor activities, I highly recommend the Uniden BEARCAT 980.

Overall Rating

4.5 out of 5 stars

Buy on Amazon