At Whisler Communications, we’re often asked whether CB radios and two-way radios are the same thing. While they both let people talk back and forth over the air, there are some key differences in how they work, who uses them, and what kind of communication they’re best suited for.
Let’s break it down.
What Is a CB Radio?
CB stands for Citizens Band radio. It’s a specific radio service approved by the FCC that operates on 40 shared channels within the 27 MHz band. The most well-known CB frequency is Channel 19, commonly used by truckers across North America.
Key features of CB radios:
- Operate on AM frequencies (27 MHz)
- No FCC license required for personal or business use
- Maximum power output: 4 watts
- Range: about 1–5 miles, depending on terrain and conditions
- Used mostly by truckers, off-roaders, and hobbyists
CB radios are a public, unencrypted system—anyone with a CB can listen in, which is both a benefit (shared community) and a limitation (no privacy).
What Is a Two-Way Radio?
“Two-way radio” is a broader term that includes everything from simple walkie-talkies to professional-grade systems used by police departments, schools, construction crews, and more.
Unlike CB radios, most two-way radios operate on VHF or UHF frequencies, and many require FCC licensing—especially for commercial use.
Key features of two-way radios:
- Use UHF (400–512 MHz) or VHF (136–174 MHz)
- Many models require a license, but FRS radios do not
- Range varies: 1–20+ miles, especially with repeater systems
- Offer secure, private communication
- Designed for use in business, schools, construction, public safety, and more
We carry Kenwood, Icom, and FirstNet-ready radios—built for the environments where reliability matters most.
So Which One Do You Need?
If you’re looking for open, hobby-style communication, CB radio might do the trick. But if you’re running a team, managing events, or coordinating across multiple job sites, you’ll want the reliability, security, and clarity of a professional two-way radio system.
At Whisler Communications, we help teams across Washington, Oregon, and California choose the right communications tools for the job—from handheld radios to wide-area trunking systems like FleetNet™.
Contact us to find the system that fits your needs—and your budget.
