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Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by Jeremy
“Breaker-Breaker 1-9, you copy? Are you ready to read this Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio Review – Come on? 10-4 Good Buddy, let’s pitter-patter!”
Cobra is an Electronics Corporation which is well-known for their award-winning products in the electronics industry. With a history dating back to 1948, and 50 years of continuous innovation, the company specializes in designing and manufacturing communication products, including CB radios for marines and RVs, dash cams, radar detectors, power inverters, portable jump starters, and more.
But today’s article is going to hone in on the Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio which is one of the company’s many products in the CB radio lineup. My goal is to empower you as a driver of a big-rig or Motorhome/RV, and any vehicle rather, to drive smarter and safer with this all-star review. As an added bonus, I will give you a step-by-step installation guide to help you get activated and on the road.
Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio Review
Product Name: Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio
Product Website: Cobra.com
Pricing: $99.95
Personal Rating: 8/10
How Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio Works
The Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio is a compact and easy-to-use device designed for individuals who need to communicate on the road. The radio works by operating on CB frequencies, in which CB stands for “citizens band”. These frequencies are unlicensed and free to use and can be switched between AM and FM.
With so many features that operate this CB radio unit, a back lit LCD display shows the current channel, signal strength, and other relevant information to the user. It also has a maximum power output of 4 watts and can communicate with other CB radios up to 4 miles away.
Cobra’s 19 Mini needs to be paired with an 18-1/2″ magnet mount antenna, that attaches easily to the roof or trunk lid of your vehicle. In the case of an RV, a specially made mounting bracket may be another alternative. What the antenna does is offer weather channel reception, as well as clarity between the channels you speak from person to person, offering you clear communication.
Example Video
If you’re intrigued enough so far, have a watch of this 1-minute and 30-second video that shows you from start to finish, from box to unpacked of what you get with this type of CB radio:
FAQs, Specs & Features of the Product
The Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio comes with several features, including:
- – Channel scan: The radio can scan through all 40 CB channels to find active channels.
- – Instant channel 9/19: The radio has instant access to emergency channels 9 and 19, which are used for calling for help or reporting emergencies to other users on the road.
- – RF gain control: The radio’s RF gain control allows the user to adjust the receiver sensitivity to improve communication quality.
- – Squelch control: The radio’s squelch control eliminates background noise when no signals are present.
- – External speaker jack: The radio has an external speaker jack for connecting an external speaker.
Lastly, there is this unique feature and the main one of the Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio, its compact size. This makes it an ideal and easy choice for installation in an RV. The radio’s small footprint allows it to fit in tight spaces like between the seats of your side by side ATV, and its ease of use means that even novice CB radio users can take advantage of its features.
Some frequently asked questions of this product, and my Bonus for you is: How do you install these radios?
Answer…start by unpacking it from the box 🙂
How to Install in an RV:
Installing the Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio in an RV is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps:
1) Choose a location: The first step in installing the radio is to choose a location for it. Some most popular places is a spot that is easily accessible, such as a dashboard or console area. Some people even go as far as mounting them to the roof, as it’s out of the way, but as long as you make sure the location is within reach of the microphone and the power source.
2) Mount the radio: Once you have chosen a location, mount the radio using the included mounting bracket and hardware. You’ll want to use screws that are metal or plastic worthy (not wood screws), or an adhesive to secure the bracket to the RV’s surface. This can include Velcro, Alien Tape, or 2-sided tape.
3) Connect the power: The Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio requires a 12-volt power source to operate. The two options you have at this point are to either wire the radio directly to the RV’s battery using the proper gauge wire, or use a cigarette lighter adapter. As well as using the appropriate wiring you’ll also want to ensure proper connectors for the job. Any connections need to be soldered and covered using heat shrink tape or electrical tape.
4) Connect the antenna: The next step in installing the radio is to connect the antenna. Choose a location for the antenna that is high and clear of obstructions. The best location is usually the roof of the RV, but the key here is to use the included coaxial cable to connect the antenna to the radio. You only have 15′ of braided cable to utilize here so keep in mind the mounted location.
5) Clean up and Beautify your Installation: This final step in installation of the Cobra 19 Mini is to use zip-ties for all loose hanging wires, and clean up your installation area. Congratulate yourself, you’ve just installed your first CB radio in your RV!
With these simple steps, you can install the Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio in your RV and start enjoying its features right away. Its compact size and ease of use make it a great choice for RVers who need to communicate on the road.
Warranty, Pricing, and Option to Purchase
The Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio is priced at $99.95 on the Cobra website and comes with a one-year warranty. The radio can be purchased directly from the Cobra website or through authorized retailers.
Conclusion / Final Thoughts
Let’s look at the overall pros and cons of this product:
Pros:
- – Compact and easy to use
- – Instant access to emergency channels
- – RF gain and squelch controls improve communication quality
Cons:
- – Limited range of up to 4 miles
- – No built-in speaker
My final thoughts on the Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio is that it is a great option for individuals who need to communicate on the road. It’s compact and easy to use, with several useful features. The limited range may be a downside for some, but the radio’s affordability and convenience make up for it.
Overall, I’d have to say that it’s great to be in communication with other RVers on the road with the 19 Mini CB, especially if you’re in a caravan group heading south for the winter, like many snowbirds do! The only thing you’d probably like to learn is the CB lingo if that’s the scenario…
If such is the case, let me help you out here:
Did I miss anything? Have a comment to make about this Cobra radio, or any other questions related to it?
10-4!
Over and Out!
Cheers!
Hey Jeremy!
Man, I’ve been scouring the internet for a decent CB radio for my old camper, and just when I thought all hope was lost, Google led me to your article. You’re like a life-saving lighthouse in a sea of dodgy reviews, mate!
Your in-depth analysis of the Cobra 19 Mini CB Radio was just what I needed. After reading your post, it’s crystal clear to me that this little bad boy is the perfect fit for my road-trip shenanigans. The compact size and easy installation had me sold, but the fact that it still packs a punch in terms of range and clarity is just the cherry on top.
I’ve had my fair share of CB radios in the past, and let me tell you, some of them were about as useful as a chocolate teapot. But your review has restored my faith in the world of CB radios. I’m already picturing myself cruising down the highway, chatting away with fellow road warriors like I’m starring in my very own version of Smokey and the Bandit.
So, cheers, Jeremy! Thanks for the fantastic review and for guiding this lost soul towards the ideal CB radio. Keep up the good work, and if you ever need a chat on the open road, I’ll be there, Cobra 19 Mini in hand!
All the best,
A Grateful Road Tripper
I love your comment, it’s inspiring to know that this review gave you such hope. And of course, we’ll be ready to communicate on channel 3 anytime! Cheers!