What Radios Do Most Offroaders Use?

When you’re venturing off the beaten path, whether you’re conquering rugged trails, navigating desert landscapes, or tackling mountains, one thing becomes clear—communication is key. For off-road enthusiasts, having a reliable and durable radio is crucial. But with so many options on the market, what radios do most offroaders use to stay connected on their journeys?

1. CB Radios (Citizens Band Radios)

For many offroaders, CB radios remain the go-to choice. These radios have been a staple of off-roading for decades, and for good reason. They provide reliable communication over long distances, often up to 5–20 miles depending on terrain and antenna quality.

Popular CB Radios:

• TSHICOM TS-CB58: The TS-CB58 shines in situations where dependable, line-of-sight communication is essential—whether you’re off-roading, boating, coordinating work in remote areas, or preparing for emergencies.
• Uniden Bearcat 980SSB: Known for its strong performance, user-friendly interface, and excellent range.
• Cobra 29 LX MAX: Offers advanced features, such as Bluetooth connectivity and a large LCD display, making it perfect for off-roaders who want both function and style.

Why Offroaders Love CB Radios:

• Long-range communication
• Easy to use and cost-effective
• Standardized across the off-road community, so you can easily talk to fellow off-roaders on the same channel

2. Two-Way Radios (VHF/UHF Radios)

Two-way radios, especially those using VHF (Very High Frequency) or UHF (Ultra High Frequency), are becoming increasingly popular among off-roaders. These radios typically provide better clarity and range in densely wooded areas or mountainous terrains, where CB radios might struggle.

Popular Two-Way Radios:

• Motorola T600 Talkabout: A waterproof and durable radio with a range of up to 35 miles, making it perfect for off-roaders tackling harsh environments.
• TSHICOM TSC‑8R: A highly affordable and customizable option that provides both VHF and UHF coverage.

Why Offroaders Love Two-Way Radios:

• Clearer communication, especially in challenging environments
• Higher range in certain areas
• Compact and portable design for easy mounting in vehicles

3. HAM Radios (Amateur Radios)

For off-roaders looking for the ultimate in long-range communication, ham radios are the top choice. These radios require a license to operate, but they provide extensive communication capabilities that go far beyond CB and two-way radios, often covering hundreds of miles.

Popular HAM Radios:

• Yaesu FT-60R: This dual-band handheld radio offers outstanding range and durability, making it a favorite among serious off-roaders.
• Icom IC-7000: A mobile transceiver with impressive range and multiple bands, perfect for off-roading expeditions where communication is critical.

Why Offroaders Love HAM Radios:

• Unlimited communication range (with the right equipment and antenna setup)
• Highly reliable in remote areas
• Comprehensive emergency communication options

4. Satellite Radios and Communication Devices

For off-roaders who venture into extremely remote areas, satellite radios and communication devices provide the ultimate safety and security. Unlike traditional radios, satellite communication doesn’t rely on local towers or infrastructures, which is a huge advantage in areas where cell service or radio coverage might be nonexistent.

Popular Satellite Radios:

• Garmin inReach Mini: A compact and feature-packed satellite communicator, ideal for off-roading adventures.
• SPOT X: A satellite GPS messenger that allows off-roaders to send messages and track their location, even when there’s no signal.

Why Offroaders Love Satellite Radios:

• Coverage in remote areas with no cellular or radio signal
• Emergency SOS feature to send distress signals
• Reliable communication over long distances, no matter the terrain

5. GMRS Radios (General Mobile Radio Service)

GMRS radios are gaining popularity due to their increased power output (up to 50 watts) and range, typically between 5 to 50 miles depending on terrain. These radios require a license to operate but offer excellent performance for off-road groups and convoys.

Popular GMRS Radios:

• Midland GXT1000VP4: A powerful GMRS radio with up to 36 miles of range, ideal for off-roaders.
• BTECH GMRS-V1: A highly versatile and affordable GMRS radio that delivers reliable communication in all conditions.

Why Offroaders Love GMRS Radios:

• Greater range compared to standard two-way radios
• Versatile for both off-roading and everyday use
• Clearer signal and less interference than other radio types

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right radio for off-roading ultimately depends on your specific needs—whether you’re looking for long-range communication, ease of use, or the best emergency options for remote locations. While CB radios continue to be a favorite due to their simplicity and widespread use, more off-roaders are turning to GMRS, VHF/UHF, and even satellite radios to get the most out of their adventures. Be sure to consider your typical routes, the terrain you’ll be navigating, and the features you need before making a decision.

By understanding your communication needs and the type of terrain you’ll be tackling, you’ll be able to choose the best radio to ensure your off-roading experience is safe, fun, and fully connected.