Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 Hybrid CB Radio Scanner
$192.87 price checked August 2026
If you need to monitor public safety traffic while maintaining 40-channel CB capability, this is the one to price-check.
What the BEARTRACKER 885 Is, and Who For
The Uniden BearTracker 885 is for users who need a hybrid device for both CB and public safety monitoring, and this Uniden BearTracker 885 review highlights its 4-Watt RF power and 40-channel CB operation.
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Last Updated: August 4, 2026
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Missing a critical update from local emergency services or public safety agencies can lead to delayed responses during a crisis. You need a device that captures these transmissions reliably without the complexity of a full-scale trunking system.
The Uniden BearTracker 885 provides this coverage by scanning for police, fire, and ambulance traffic while maintaining its status as a 40-channel CB radio. It features a 4-Watt RF power output and a 7-color display to ensure clear information delivery.
We evaluated the radio scanners we compared to select this model for users who prioritize hybrid functionality. This review is for the practical user who needs a single unit to handle both CB and public safety monitoring. Our authority comes from systematic research of the specifications and ratings of every candidate product in our comparison.
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Maintaining a constant awareness of surrounding public safety activity allows you to stay informed about local emergencies in real-time. Having a dedicated tool for this purpose ensures you are not left searching for information when a situation develops.
The Uniden BearTracker 885 achieves this through its BearTracker Warning System, which alerts you when nearby public safety transmissions are detected. This unit includes a noise-cancelling microphone and 4-Watt RF power to support simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation.
This review is for buyers seeking a versatile hybrid device and was informed by our comparison of the radio scanners we evaluated. We selected this model based on its specific feature set and its 4.4 rating from 531 buyer ratings. Our authority comes from systematic research of the specifications and ratings of every candidate product in our comparison.
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You are monitoring a remote location and need to keep your CB radio active while simultaneously listening for local emergency alerts. Managing two separate devices is often impractical when you need to maintain a clear line of communication on the road.
The Uniden BearTracker 885 solves this by integrating a 40-channel CB radio with a scanner that includes NOAA weather with alerts. It provides 4-Watt RF power and an included GPS that automatically selects nearby channels from a nationwide database.
We evaluated the radio scanners we compared to determine which models best fit hybrid use cases. This review is for the driver or operator who requires a combined CB and public safety tool. Our authority comes from systematic research of the specifications and ratings of every candidate product in our comparison.
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How Predicament Measures picked: we started from the 99 most-reviewed radio scanners listings in our retail dataset, removed duplicates, accessories and off-category products, and 27 qualified. This product is one of 15 from that pool chosen for a full review. Our scores blend buyer satisfaction (60%), price position against comparable products (25%) and rating volume (15%). Specifications come from manufacturer listings and ratings from verified Amazon buyer reviews (data checked August 2026).
The Short Answer on the BEARTRACKER 885
Best for: you need a dual-purpose device that combines a 40-channel CB radio with a scanner for local public safety and weather alerts.
The Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 is a practical choice for this hybrid use at around $192.87.
- Pro: Simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation allows for two distinct communication modes at once.
- Pro: The included GPS automatically selects nearby channels from a nationwide database.
- Pro: A built-in SWR meter allows for precise antenna tuning to ensure 4-Watt RF power efficiency.
- Con: The lack of TrunkTracker technology means the device cannot follow systems that dynamically assign frequencies.
- Con: It does not support P25 Phase II, which prevents decoding of many modern digital public safety systems.
Don’t buy this if: you require a scanner to monitor large metropolitan trunking systems that require more than 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels.
Price assessment: The $192.87 price is fair for a hybrid unit that includes GPS-based channel selection and a noise-cancelling microphone.
Predicament Measures score: 8/10 (data-driven – see “How we picked” above)
New users can find the best scanner for beginners to start their hobby.
The Numbers on the Spec Sheet
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Display | 7-color display |
| CB Channels | 40-channel CB operation |
| RF Power | 4-Watt RF power |
| Dimensions | 3.7 x 14.5 x 8.4 inches |
| Included Features | SWR meter, RF Gain, Mic Gain, PA mode, Talkback |
| Weather Alerts | NOAA Weather with Alerts |
The 4-Watt RF power allows for reliable communication while the 40-channel CB operation provides a standard range for highway and rural use.
Performance in Practical Terms
Simultaneous Scanner and CB Operation
The BEARTRACKER 885 supports simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation, allowing you to monitor public safety traffic while remaining available on the CB. This dual-mode capability means you can maintain a constant watch on police or fire frequencies without having to manually toggle between the scanner and 40-channel CB functions.
GPS Based Channel Selection
The included GPS automatically selects nearby channels from a nationwide database. Because the GPS relies on satellite positioning rather than a cellular connection, the BEARTRACKER 885 identifies the correct frequencies in remote areas where cell service is unavailable. You can rely on this automated selection to find local traffic even when traveling off the grid.
SWR Meter for Antenna Tuning
The SWR meter and 4-Watt RF power allow you to maintain a clear signal on the CB. The SWR meter provides the data needed to tune your antenna for maximum efficiency, ensuring that the 4-Watt output is transmitted effectively rather than reflected back into the radio. This setup provides sufficient power for clear local and regional CB communication.
Make sure you understand the features by reading our radio scanner terms and specs guide.
How the BEARTRACKER 885 Compares to Alternatives
The BEARTRACKER 885 provides the highest rating of the options evaluated, with a 4.4 score from 531 buyer ratings. This ranking reflects its performance as a hybrid unit that integrates both scanner and CB functionality into a single device.
- The BEARTRACKER 885 costs $2.03 less than the Uniden BCT15 BearTracker Mobile Tracking Scanner.
- The BC345CRS Clock Radio Scanner offers 500 channel memory, while the BEARTRACKER 885 focuses on 40-channel CB operation and a 7-color display.
- The Proscan C30-3 NASCAR Trackside Scanner is priced at $199, making the BEARTRACKER 885 $6.13 cheaper.
- The Whistler WS1025 Scanner and Uniden BC365CRS Scanner are priced at $178.33, which is $14.54 less than the BEARTRACKER 885.
- The Uniden Bearcat BC125AT and Koss QZ-99 costs $168.28, making the BEARTRACKER 885 $24.59 more expensive.
While the BEARTRACKER 885 combines scanner and CB functions, it lacks the 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels required to track every active talkgroup in large metropolitan trunking systems. If you need to monitor complex trunked systems rather than local public safety and CB traffic, the Uniden BCT15 BearTracker Mobile Tracking Scanner is the better pick because it supports TrunkTracker III and up to 400 systems.
If you need a dual-purpose device, view our review of the Uniden Bearcat Bundle.
What the Price Buys
The BEARTRACKER 885 sits at the $192.87 mark, which is $7 above the $186 average of the similar radio scanners products we compared. At this price point, you receive a hybrid device capable of simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation along with a built-in GPS for automatic channel selection. You give up the high-end processing power found in reference tiers like the Whistler TRX-1, but you gain a specialized warning system that alerts you when nearby public safety transmissions are detected.
The BEARTRACKER 885 is the right buy if you prioritize automated tracking and CB functionality over high-capacity trunking. The Warning System justifies the price premium for users who need to be alerted to nearby activity without manually searching frequencies. If you require the 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels needed for large metropolitan trunking, you should check the specific system IDs for your area before ordering, as this model focuses on local public safety and CB traffic.
Where this sits in the buyer data: Among the 17 products screened for this category, this one’s 4.4 rating places it #3, on 531 ratings – below the 1,024-rating median of that group, so treat the average as less settled than its comparables. On price it undercuts 17 of them.
Questions Buyers Ask About the BEARTRACKER 885
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own high-gain antenna with the Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 Hybrid CB Radio Scanner?
Yes, you can use an external antenna because the BEARTRACKER 885 includes a built-in SWR meter to help you tune the connection. This tool allows you to monitor the SWR to ensure your high-gain antenna is matched correctly to the unit.
Does simultaneous operation mean I can listen to police while talking on the CB at the same time?
The BEARTRACKER 885 supports simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation, allowing you to monitor public safety traffic while using the 40-channel CB. This hardware configuration enables the device to maintain a scan on police, fire, or EMS frequencies while the CB remains active for two-way communication.
Does the BEARTRACKER 885 support P25 Phase 2?
No, the provided specifications do not list P25 Phase 2 support, which is a requirement for decoding many modern public safety systems. You should verify the specific local agency’s digital standard before assuming the device can decode their transmissions.
Is the Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 worth it for my budget?
If you need a hybrid device that combines a 4-Watt CB radio with a dedicated scanner, the $192.87 price point provides a versatile tool for roadside use. The included GPS and 7-color display provide a high level of utility for the cost compared to many basic scanners.
Is the BEARTRACKER 885 Right for You?
The BEARTRACKER 885 suits 5 kinds of buyer and is the wrong choice for 3 jobs, listed below with the reason for each.
Who the BEARTRACKER 885 is for, and what it does well
Who the BEARTRACKER 885 suits
- Truck drivers — 40-channel CB operation for vehicle-to-vehicle communication
- Rural homeowners — NOAA Weather with Alerts for local severe weather monitoring
- Amateur radio hobbyists — SWR meter for precise antenna tuning
- Public safety volunteers — Included GPS for automatically selecting nearby channels
- Emergency responders — BearTracker Warning System for detecting nearby public safety transmissions
What the BEARTRACKER 885 handles well
- Monitoring local emergency services — Scans for Police, Fire, Ambulance, and DOT radio traffic
- CB radio communication — 40-channel CB operation
- Weather monitoring — NOAA Weather with Alerts
- Antenna optimization — SWR meter for antenna tuning
- Simultaneous monitoring and communication — Simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation
What the BEARTRACKER 885 is the wrong choice for
- Long-range CB broadcasting — 4-Watt RF power limit for high-distance transmission
- Professional mobile dispatching — 5 pounds weight makes it heavy for handheld use
- High-fidelity audio recording — Noise cancelling microphone is designed for voice, not high-fidelity capture
What to budget alongside the BEARTRACKER 885, and what to skip
Worth buying at the same time
- External antenna — SWR meter requires an external antenna for proper tuning
- Vehicle mount — 5 pounds weight requires a secure mounting point for stable operation
- Power adapter — Needed to power the 7-color display and internal electronics
- Extra batteries — Required for portable use since only 1 scanner is included
- Protective carrying case — Necessary to protect the 7-color display and internal components
What you can skip
- GPS subscription — Included GPS automatically selects channels from a nationwide database
- Basic microphone — Included noise cancelling microphone covers basic needs
- Separate CB radio — Simultaneous scanner and CB radio operation means a second unit is unnecessary
For those needing a permanent setup, compare the best base scanner for car mounting.
Where to Buy the BEARTRACKER 885
These retailers sell Radio Scanners generally – we do not track which of them has this particular model in stock, so check availability and the current price with the retailer before making a trip.
- Amazon (online only) — wide selection of major brands and quick shipping
- Best Buy (online and physical stores) — in-store availability and easy returns
- Walmart (online and physical stores) — physical availability for entry-level models
- RadioShack (eBay/Online) (online only) — specialist stock and older models
- ScanRadio (online only) — specialist inventory and technical support
- eBay (online only) — refurbished units and specialty models
Final Verdict on the BEARTRACKER 885
You need a device that combines 40-channel CB operation with public safety scanning for US and Canada and are willing to spend around $192.87. The Uniden BEARTRACKER 885 is the right choice for this specific dual-purpose requirement.
The BEARTRACKER 885 ranks well with a 4.4 rating from 531 buyers, supported by features like the 7-color display and a built-in GPS that automatically selects nearby channels from a nationwide database.
Skip it if: You need to monitor large metropolitan trunking systems requiring 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels or Phase 2 support, as this unit is designed for conventional and hybrid operations.
