Uniden PC68LTX CB Radio Review: Reliable but Flawed
What stood out immediately about the Uniden PC68LTX CB Radio was how often truckers and CB hobbyists described it as “solid, old-school, and dependable” even amidst evolving tech. One Amazon reviewer called it a “nice little unit… hooked it up, trimmed my antenna and off to the races,” while Reddit user comments often frame it as the “favorite radio” in their fleet. Based on broad cross-platform feedback, this model earns a 7.9/10 — praised for reception clarity, classic controls, and durability, but with some persistent issues around fuse blowing and varying range performance.
Quick Verdict: Conditional – Great for truckers & CB enthusiasts who value analog controls and tweakable features; less ideal for compact cars or absolute beginners without install knowledge.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Crisp, clear communication with high-cut audio option | Fuse blowing when installed via cigarette lighter |
| Durable build; praised for longevity | Variable range performance; sometimes under 1 mile |
| Classic Uniden controls familiar to CB veterans | No built-in SWR meter; extra gear required |
| Easy installation in larger vehicles | Bulky dimensions unsuitable for tight spaces |
| PA function works well for roadside announcements | Mixed quality control reports on newer units |
| Adjustable mic gain & RF gain for customized transmission | Reception quality relies heavily on antenna choice |
Claims vs Reality
Marketing materials highlight its 40 AM channel operation, bright LED channel indicator, extra-long mic cord, RF and mic gain controls, and an “automatic noise limiter” to cut interference. On paper, this positions the PC68LTX as a top-shelf modern classic.
Yet user data injects nuance. While officially promoted as “crisp communication and transmission,” one Trustpilot reviewer bluntly stated: “Lots of noise and sometimes difficult to get reception.” That suggests antenna quality and tuning matter more than the spec sheet implies. Another Amazon buyer praised its clarity but noted, “Reception is fair… can get a longer CB antenna for better reception.”
The high-cut audio claim resonates well with long-time CB operators. A Reddit user explained, “PC68 is my favorite radio… dynamic squelch works pretty well… good little radios.” Marketing promises reduced high-frequency interference, and veteran drivers confirm it noticeably improves conversations.
The “simple installation” pitch is mostly accurate — multiple buyers noted being up and running within minutes. But not everyone had a smooth ride; one Amazon owner reported repeated fuse blows when powered through the cigarette lighter, planning a hardwire fix directly to the battery.
Cross-Platform Consensus
Universally Praised
Across Reddit, Amazon, and eBay buyers, the audio quality and noise reduction features emerge as strong points — especially for roadside chatter among truckers. An Amazon reviewer summed up: “It works as described, clarity is great… everyone can hear me just fine.” Redditors often mention the high-cut audio as a welcome comeback, benefiting those often driving in high-noise environments.
For long-haul truckers, the sturdy build is a boon. Trustpilot user Stephen C. recounted driving “2,000 miles, talked to truckers, avoided speed traps… excellent transmission paired with a Wilson 1000 antenna.” The inclusion of RF gain and mic gain lets operators fine-tune signal strength based on distance and noise level.
Its analog S/RF meter and classic channel selector find favor among CB veterans who dislike menu-driven modern units. The extra-long mic cord is regularly cited as “convenient even in the largest of vehicle cabs,” preventing awkward reach.
Common Complaints
Problems center on installation and range limitations. The most frequent installation gripe is the inline fuse blowing during cigarette lighter use. One buyer documented attempting a SWR-adjusted antenna setup only to have the fuse pop repeatedly — a frustration that breaks the ready-to-use promise.
Range is another sensitive point. While some claim up to 5 miles of coverage, others barely get one mile. Trustpilot’s Jim C. lamented “only getting reception for about 1/4 mile in open terrain… and only 50–60 yards in woods,” despite premium antenna investments.
Quality control on newer units draws skepticism. Reddit discussions compare the once higher-quality Unidens to current builds, noting “Cobra decided Uniden built cost too much… big decline in quality … very few mfgs do it as well as Uniden.” This language hints some nostalgia bias, but multiple owners do acknowledge thinner build compared to decades-old models.
Divisive Features
The size — 6.3" x 6.4" x 2.2" — delights truck and van owners but frustrates small car users. Jonathan U. on Trustpilot warned: “It’s big… wouldn’t recommend for a regular car… works great in a full-size truck.”
The lack of a built-in SWR meter polarizes buyers. Some enjoy the simplicity and own external meters; others find it inconvenient. One Amazon reviewer even said they’d have chosen the Uniden 78 if it were available, purely for the built-in SWR feature.
Trust & Reliability
Trustpilot’s algorithm flagged anomalous review patterns and possible removal of Amazon reviews, suggesting vigilance when assessing ratings. Still, over 64% of their sampled reviews were deemed reliable, pointing to genuine sentiment.
Long-term reliability stories bolster trust. One Redditor proudly said they own “three of them, installed variable power on all… good little radios.” Another Trustpilot customer still runs decades-old Philippine-made units, though they admit newer models “use the same Wilson antennas but don’t receive quite as well.”
Repeated mentions of “cheaper build compared to years ago” suggest that while durability is still fair, it may not reach the tank-like resilience of vintage Uniden CBs.
Alternatives
Only Cobra 25 LTD Classic was directly debated in Reddit threads. The gist: originally similar circuitry, but with “Unidens being made to higher quality control standards.” Economic shifts reduced Cobra’s build quality, leaving the PC68LTX as preferred for those seeking longevity. Some still choose Cobra for wattage potential when “peaked and tuned.”
Price & Value
Recent eBay and retail listings range from $99.99 to $129.99 new, with used units dropping as low as $49.99. Vintage Philippine builds can fetch premium resale among collectors. Buyers stress factoring in the price of an external SWR meter and quality antenna — without these, even the best CB will underperform.
Community buying tips emphasize:
- Opt for a hardwire install to avoid fuse issues.
- Pair with a reputable tunable antenna for best range.
- If scanning multiple channels is a priority, consider other models.
FAQ
Q: Does the PC68LTX include a built-in SWR meter?
A: No. Multiple buyers note the absence and recommend purchasing an external SWR meter for proper antenna tuning.
Q: How far can this CB reach?
A: User reports vary wildly — from 1/4 mile to 5 miles — depending heavily on antenna choice, tuning, and terrain.
Q: Is installation truly beginner-friendly?
A: In larger vehicles, yes. Several owners installed within minutes, but others faced fuse issues when using cigarette lighter power.
Q: Is the high-cut audio effective?
A: Yes, especially in noisy cab environments. Veteran CB operators say it improves clarity and reduces high-frequency interference.
Q: Will it fit in a compact car dashboard?
A: Its large size makes it better suited for trucks, vans, or vehicles with ample under-dash space.
Final Verdict: Buy if you’re a trucker, traveler, or CB enthusiast who wants classic controls, strong noise filtering, and customizable audio within a durable chassis. Avoid if you need compact form factors or expect flawless range without investing in antennas. Pro tip: Hardwire for stability, and pair with a high-quality tunable antenna to unlock its full performance.
