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Updated Jan 23, 2023
3 Best Stryker CB Radios In 2023

Wondering where to find the best Stryker CB radio? One that is powerful, covers a wide range, and is affordable? Read on and discover which is the best Stryker CB radio on the market for 2023.
Best Stryker CB Radio In A Glimpse
- #1 Best Value For Money Stryker Radio: Stryker SR-655 10 Meter Amateur Radio
- #2 Most Powerful Stryker Radio: SR-497-HPC AM/FM 10M RADIO
- #3 Best Budget Stryker Radio: Stryker SR-94HPC 10 Meter Radio
Typically Stryker doesn’t offer CB radios (11 meter Citizens Band Radio) instead it’s one of the leaders in the 10-meter radios. The difference is that they have more wattage/power output than CB Radios and cause of the frequencies they operate, a license is required to use them. The good part however is that some of them can be easily converted to 11-meter radios and be used as CB radios.
Finding the ideal Stryker CB radio that meets all your radio needs can be a daunting task. From a pool of several Stryker models, the critical question remains, what is the best Stryker CB radio?
We have invested hours upon hours in research and compiling this detailed review of Stryker radio models. In this guide, you’ll also discover all that you need to consider when choosing the right Stryker radio.
So, without further ado, buckle up, and let’s get started!
Best Stryker “CB” Radios Comparison Table
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Top 3 Best Stryker “CB” Radios
1. Stryker Radios SR-497-HPC AM/FM 10M RADIO
Key Features
- A large enough round meter.
- It has a color-changing meter light and channel display.
- Range: 30+ miles.
- Has an ANL circuit that reduces external interferences.
- Has a front microphone connector.
- High power output.
- Automatic warning indicator (AWI).
- Multi-step dimmer button.
- Convertible to an 11 meter CB radio.
SR-497-HPC happens to be one of the finest 10-meter radios. Right from the factory, the radio is already tuned to the 10-meter band. Because of this, it operates as amateur ham radio and is suitable for long-range communications.
High Power Output and Range Coverage: SR-497-HPC is a high power radio and operates on 6 IRF-520 MOSFET transistors. In most cases, you’ll need an amplifier to have a high power output, but with this radio, that won’t be necessary. The beauty of high power is in having a wider range of coverage.
Because of its powerful transistor, the radio has 30+ miles range and sometimes more in clear terrains. Clearly, it is the true definition of a long-range radio. Therefore, you can effortlessly transmit and receive signals from faraway places.
To operate this radio, you need to have an input power of 12 volts in direct current. This input power is adequate to power the radio for long-range communications without any interruptions. The best part is that you won’t be getting it from anywhere else but your vehicle. So, once the radio is installed, it’ll be fully operational. That’s all it takes!
SR-497-HPC runs on an advanced heavy-duty AM regulator. This feature allows for remarkable radio performance and memorable communication. And it does that by ensuring AM signals are adequately strong for high-level communications.
User Interface: The radio features a friendly and easy to use user interface. First, it has a multi-colored channel display. With this feature, you have 7 color options you can have on the frequency display. Amazingly, you can set the display to any of the 7 colors and give your radio a whole new look. This is one way of adding aesthetic appeal to the radio.
Secondly, it features a 7 color LED backlit faceplate that you can customize according to your preference. This provides a brilliant backlight control for all the radio functions. Even if you’re in a poorly lit area, you can effortlessly use the radio.
Also, the functions are clearly labeled and adequately legible. More importantly, they’re within reach and you’ll always find any control hassle-free. But that’s not all!
You can alter the dimmer light to your specifications. As opposed to other radios with only high, medium, and low light, with SR-497-HPC you can dim the lights further. Thanks to its multiple-step dimmer. This feature allows you to fine-tune the brightness.
Detailed Specifications
- Power output: 90W peak
- Transistors: 6 IRF-520 MOSFET transistors.
- Voltage: DC 12 V.
- Modes: FM, AM, PA circuitry.
- Frequency range: 28-29 MHz.
- Range Coverage: 30+ miles.
- Channels: 40
- Channel spacing: +10 kHz
- Display: Multi-colored.
- Power connection: 2 pin.
- Microphone pin-out: Standard 4 pin.
- Fuse size: 20 Amp.
- Dimensions: 16 X 9 X 3 inches.
PROS
- Its meter is well lit and easy to read.
- It’s designed to reduce external interferences.
- You can alter microphone settings as per your preference.
- Comes with a pre-wired frequency counter jack.
CONS
- You have to go to a CB shop in order to convert it to a 11 meter cb radio
- You need a licence if you operate it above 4W
- No access to channel 19.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a 10-meter amateur ham radio that’s easy to use, then you will find this radio a good fit. With this radio, you can operate it in the dark without missing any of the controls. Besides, it’s powerful, has a great look and remarkable sound.
However, since it’s not directly a CB radio, it may not be ideal for you if you want a CB radio right out of the box. Because of this, you’d have to take it to a CB shop and have it converted to a CB radio. This is time-consuming and will require an extra budget. The conversion costs around $30-70
Also, FCC requires you to have a license before you can own and operate this radio. Therefore, you’d have to take an exam to certify your ham radio knowledge. Again, this will compel you to invest a couple of weeks to get certified. So, if you have an emergency or no luxury of time, these timelines may not be in your favor.
Stryker Radios SR-497-HPC AM/FM 10M RADIO User Manual
2. Stryker SR-655 10 Meter Amateur Radio
Key Features
- 7 color frequency display.
- Range: 20 miles
- PC programmable.
- Variable power control.
- Variable talkback control.
- 32 dimer control positions.
- High power output.
- Six Roger beeps.
- Advanced clarifier.
- Digital echo
- 10-meter Amateur radio.
Range Coverage: A high range coverage means a lot to radio users. This enhances the ability to communicate with many people over long distances. Stryker SR-655 model has the best features to facilitate this. Therefore, with this radio, you can rest assured of long-distance communications across ranges.
In particular, the radio has 20 miles transmission range and receive calls up to 50 miles away.
Power Output and Required Operation Power: Also, the radio operates on a high power wattage output of between 70 watts to a peak of 75 watts. This is attributed to the 4 Mosfet high transistor capacity. It’s the transistor that powers the radio to a higher wattage and the resulting wide range coverage.
Therefore, with Stryker SR-655, you’re guaranteed an uninterrupted channel of communication. And you can transmit and receive signals over long distances with minimal stress.
To power this radio, you’ll need a Direct Current of 13.8 V which you can get straight from your automobile. The beauty behind this is that you don’t need to find another power source to get your radio up and running.
Once it’s fully installed, you can use it stress-free. It will also save you the agony of having to find alternative sources of power.
User Interface: Like other stryker models, SR-655 has a friendly user interface. This makes the radio easy to operate even for first-time users. All the controls are clearly labeled with legible writing. Therefore, you’ll be able to tell a function at a glance.
Moreover, the radio has 7 colors for frequency display. You can play around with these to give your radio a good visual impression. Besides, with the click of a button, you’ll give your radio’s frequency display the color of your choice. Unlike other radios, you don’t have to stick with a boring frequency display. How amazing is that?
Also, you can use the radio in poorly lit areas mostly during the nights or a cloudy day. This is possible due to its 7 color LED backlit faceplate. And thanks to its dimmer feature, you can customize the lighting to match your personal preference.
Detailed Specifications:
- Power output: 70-75 W peak
- Transistors: 4 Mosfet transistors.
- Voltage: DC 13.8 V
- Modes: AM, FM, PA circuitry.
- Frequency range: 28-29 MHz.
- Maximum Range Coverage: 50 miles.
- Channels: 40
- Channel spacing: 1 kHz,10 kHz, 100 kHz, and 1 MHz.
- Display: Multi-colored.
- Power connection: 3 pin.
- Microphone pin-out: Standard 4 pin.
- Fuse size: 20 Amp.
- Dimensions: 17 x 9 x 3 inches.
PROS
- Easily selectable display colors.
- Works perfectly well under harsh conditions.
- High-quality long-range communication.
- Friendly user interface.
- Easy to customize and to program via a PC.
CONS
- You have to pay an extra fee to a CB shop in order to convert it to a cb radio
- This model doesn’t have SSB
- Programming cable is not included
Verdict: This radio works well even under harsh conditions. If you use it in an environment that exhibits elements of harshness, then you should find this radio essential.
There are some customers complaints that the radio doesn’t plug and play as expected. It means you’d have to take it to an expert for proper set up before you can use it.
The sad thing is that this is never communicated when you’re buying the radio. And overall you’d spend more to have the radio fixed. For sure, this can be devastating. Besides, it doesn’t have an SSB operation option. If this is something you’re specifically looking for, this radio may not be a good fit for you.
Stryker SR-655 10 Meter Amateur Radio User Manual
3. Stryker SR-94HPC 10 Meter Radio
Key Features
- Quick access to channels 9 and 19.
- Eight Roger beeps.
- Dimmable color display.
- Dual-channel watch.
- Frequency and channel display.
- Digital S-meter display.
- Hi-cut filter.
- Noise blanker function.
- Adjustable squelch and volume.
- PC programmable.
Power Output And Range Coverage: Compared to the other Stryker models, SR-94HPC 10 meter band radio has a low output power of between 4 watts and a high of 40 watts. However, as much as it can transmit at a low of 4 watts, this radio is still not considered a CB radio. Being a 10-meter band radio, FCC identifies it as ham radio.
On average, this radio can cover slightly more than 20 miles.
Required Operation Power and Working Temperature: The radio is designed to take in both 12 volts and 24 volts. This gives you two powering options. The versatility makes the radio efficient as you don’t always have to rely on only one way of powering the radio.
If one fails or isn’t available, you have the choice of trying another one. Alternatively, you can go with what gives you the best results.
SR-94HPC 10-meter amateur radio is one of the best Stryker models with a wide operating temperature range. This implies that the radio will perform optimally for as long as the environmental temperature falls within the range.
User Interface and Programming: Like the other models, it is easy to operate. Once you’re done with the installation, the rest is a walk in the park. To make this happen, the radio features a multi-colored channel and frequency display. Each has up to 7 color options to consider.
Besides, it’s pretty simple to set the channel and frequency display to your preference. With the click of a well-labeled button, you can get this done on the fly. Moreover, it has backlit keys for easy operation of the radio even when in the dark.
And, since it is PC programmable, all you need is a personal computer and programming software to customize the radio settings. The good news is that the programming software is available for free on the manufacturer’s website.
SR-94HPC features dual channels watch function. Therefore, you can always keep track of two of your favorite channels simultaneously. You will find it helpful as you don’t have to switch from one channel to another. This enhances convenience.
Detailed Specifications
- Power output: Low 4W/30W, High 10W/40W
- Transistors: 3 FQP13N10 final transistors.
- Voltage: DC 12/24 V
- Modes: AM, FM
- Frequency range: 28.000-29.700 MHz.
- Display: Multi-colored.
- Dimensions: 4.88 X 6.41 x 1.53 inches.
- Memory channels: 4
- Operating temperature: -20° C TO + 55° C
- Frequency response: 300-3000Hz.
PROS
- Clear and easy to read display.
- Easy to install and operate.
- Quick and instant access to some channels.
CONS
- The screen may be small for some users.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a radio with a wide working temperature range, then, you may need to consider this one. Also, it will be a good fit if you want a radio with quick and instant access to some channels.
It is a small radio, yet super powerful and offers great value for the money invested. It has an aesthetic appeal and you’ll love having conversions on this radio.
Nonetheless, you’re likely to experience one or two issues from operating the radio. Sometimes the display screen unexpectedly goes blank making it hard to see what’s on display. Sadly, this will happen frequently, at least after a few days or hours.
Unfortunately, even switching the radio off can’t fix the problem. But you can disconnect it from the power source after which it goes back to normal working. So, if you’re not ready for this hassle, we’d recommend you consider a different radio.
Stryker SR-94HPC 10 Meter Radio User Manual
Best Stryker “CB” Radios Detailed Comparison Table
Model: | Stryker SR-497-HPC (Most Powerful Stryker Radio) | Stryker SR-655 (Best Value For Money Stryker Radio) | Stryker SR-94HPC (Best Affordable Stryker Radio:) |
Power output: | 90W peak | 70-75 W peak | Low 4W/30W, High 10W/40W |
Transistors: | 6 IRF-520 MOSFET transistor. | 4 Mosfet transistors | 3 FQP13N10 final transistors |
Voltage: | DC 12 V | DC 13.8 V | DC 12/24 V |
Modes: | FM, AM, PA circuitry | AM, FM, PA circuitry | AM, FM |
Frequency range: | 28-29 MHz | 28-29 MHz | 28.000-29.700 MHz |
Range: | 30+ miles | 20+ miles | 20+ miles |
Channel spacing: | +10 kHz | 1 kHz,10 kHz, 100 kHz and 1 MHz | |
Display: | Multi-colored | Multi-colored | Multi-colored |
Power connection: | 2 pin | 3 pin | |
Microphone pin-out: | Standard 4 pin | Standard 4 pin | |
Fuse size: | 20 Amp | 20 Amp | |
Dimensions: | 16 X 9 X 3 inches | 17 x 9 x 3 inches | 4.88 X 6.41 x 1.53 inches. |
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best Stryker CB Radio
1. Installation and Operation
If you’re new to Stryker Cb radios or radios in general, it’s okay not to know how to install and operate one. However, since you need to use your new radio, you got to level up as soon as possible. Otherwise, you’ll not find value in the radio.
The three Stryker radios—SR-497-HPC, SR-655, and SR-94HPC—are all easy to install for both beginners and advanced users. And with the help of a user manual, you can get this done in a short time.
However, the user manuals for SR-497-HPC and SR-655 are more detailed and step by step. Therefore, complete newbies will find installing the two radios pretty simple. The manual for SR-94HPC is not well elaborative and newbies can find it hard to follow.
This means it’s more suitable for advanced users who have previously installed a Stryker radio. For beginners, SR-497-HPC and SR-655 are the best shot.
Out of the three radios, SR-94HPC is the easiest to program. This is because it features 6 define keys and each is performing a specific role. The keys are labeled 1-6 and you can use a single key to set up 3 functions.
On the other hand, SR-497-HPC and SR-655 are PC programmable thus requires programming software, a programming cable, and the PC for installation. Also, for the programming software, you’ll have to get it from the brand’s website. This process is time-consuming and may not appeal to many users.
2. License Requirement
All stryker radios including SR-497-HPC, SR-655, and SR-94HPC are 10-meter band amateur ham radios for long-distance communications. Therefore, to serve their intended purpose, they have a high power output. To operate an amateur radio, you’ll need a license from FCC. Even though these radios can easily be converted to 11 meter (CB) radios it’s still not legal to use them without a licence.
The only way to qualify is to take an exam to test your ham radio knowledge. If you qualify as per the FCC standards, you’ll be issued with an operator’s license. Also, anyone of any age can own a license provided they make the cut.
3. Return And Warranty Policy
All Stryker radios have either a 1, 2 or 3 years product warranty. While SR-655HPC has a 3-year warranty, SR-497-HPC and SR-94HPC have a 1-year warranty. All the radios have a limited warranty which means the warranty only holds when the problem is caused by factory defects or usual use. Plus, in such cases, the repairs will be done at no cost to you.
4. Stryker Radio Power Output
The best CB radio has a high power output for the sake of long-distance communication. Radio reception and transmissions vary significantly based on a variety of factors. For heavily built-up areas, buildings act as the main objects of obstruction.
Therefore, you’ll need a powerful Stryker radio like SR-497-HPC at 110 watts peak for 30+ miles range. The downside of high power output is the high level of radio energy that may cause environmental and health risks.
5. Cost
Stryker radio models have varied price range. The price depends on radio features and you can get an affordable Stryker radio today that meets your radio needs.
SR-497-HPC currently is the most expensive one. Since prices are subject to change, you can always check the current price on Amazon. On the other hand, SR-655 costs a bit less and Stryker SR-94HPC is the cheaper one.
So, based on your budget, you can always settle on what you can afford. And more importantly, the radio should offer maximum value for your money.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Brand Of CB Radio?
The top 3 best CB radio brands include; Uniden, Cobra, and Midland. Stryker models operate on 10-meter bands which makes them amateur ham radio. However, it is possible to convert a 10-meter band Stryker radio to 11 meter CB radio.
Where Can I Repair A Stryker CB Radio?
There are a couple of places you can have your Stryker CB radio repaired. One, you can always take it back to the store you got it from. For this scenario, you’ll need to have a warranty to qualify for the after-sale services.
The other option is to take your striker CB radio back to the manufacturer when you experienced a hitch. To find the right repair shop, you can search online for “CB radio repair shop near me”.
What Is The Most Powerful CB Radio?
The most powerful CB radio is Uniden BEAR 980. It’s a 40 channel CB radio that operates on single sideband mode (SSB). It has a large multi-color display screen, noise-canceling microphone, and instant channels such as 9 and 19. On the flip side, the most powerful Stryker radio is SR-497-HPC. It has a maximum high power output of 110 watts and can transmit and receive signals over 30 miles range.
What Is The Best CB Radio For Long Range?
The best CB radio for long-range is Cobra 148 GTL. This is because it has a higher power output of up to 12 watts as compared to other CB radios that have a maximum wattage of 4 watts. Therefore, this enables the radio to triple or quadruple the normal range of CB radios.
Additionally, the best long-range Stryker radio is SR-497-HPC since it operates on a high power output of 110 watts. It’s therefore suitable for long-range communications. If you decide to convert it to a CB radio, it will be more powerful than even cobra 148 GTL.
Final Words
Finding the best Stryker CB radio can be tough. Especially when you have an array to choose from. However, with the right kind of information, you’re better placed to make the right choices. This comprehensive guide is all you need to get started.
Do you have any questions, clarifications or you’d just want to let us know your favorite stryker CB radio from this list? We’d love to hear from you. So, leave a comment, and let’s get down to this!