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Two-Way Radio Buying Guide
Two-way radios, a common sight in the hands of police and firefighters, are becoming a popular way for families to communicate and a backpack essential for hikers and climbers. In situations where cell phones are too costly or impractical, two-way radios offer the ability to stay in touch at the push of a button, and new designs have made two-way radios easier than ever to use. Pronto’s Two-Way Radio Buying Guide will match you to the two-way radio best suited to your needs.
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the five
What are the five key points I need to look at?
Range
Choose a two-way radio that will operate at needed distances, using higher wattage as the best indicator of transmission range. Remember that ranges are based on direct line of sight measurements, so buildings and natural features will reduce the usable range.
Service type
Family Radio Service (FRS) radios allow for up to two miles of transmission, do not require a license and work right out of the box. General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) radios have more range and channels and require all users to obtain an FCC license before they begin transmitting. Hybrid two-way radios transmit and receive both FRS and GMRS channels and are used for long- and short-range communication. Like GMRS radios, hybrids require an FCC license.
Channels
Spending more will get you a two-way radio with more channels, which may be needed in densely populated areas. Look for dual-channel monitoring or channel scan for easier communications with multiple two-way radios and try to find a model that monitors weather and emergency channels.
Privacy
Better two-way radios use privacy codes that will keep outside conversations off your channel and scramble your conversations to keep eavesdroppers from hearing them. For business applications where privacy is essential, consider leasing a private channel and getting two-way radios that can use it.
Battery life
Most families will be happy with replaceable batteries for home use and occasional outings. Daily two-way radio users should look for built-in rechargeable batteries that can be refreshed in a docking station. For remote locations, avoid built-in batteries in favor of rechargeable batteries that can be replaced.
pronto pick
What product do we recommend?
We like the Motorola Talkabout T4900 Two Way Radio, which comes in a convenient double pack. This two-way radio transmits on 22 channels, including 7 FRS and 8 GMRS frequencies, and offers 38 privacy codes, channel scan and a large LED display. An included battery charger and a 5-mile operating range make this a versatile two-way radio for a variety of communication needs.
experts say
CNET—“Motorola's Talkabout two-way radios run the gamut from inexpensive, entry-level models to pricier, high-end models with all the bells and whistles. The T6500 strikes a nice balance between the two, offering a pair of durable FRS/GMRS (Family Radio Service/General Mobile Radio Service) radios plus a dual battery charger.” Source: Cnet.com
Boys’ Life – “If you need more power, step up to the Uniden GMR 2089 ($80) with its 20-mile range, 142 privacy codes and emergency and NOAA weather/hazards alert radio.” Source: Boyslife.org
Canadian Geographic—“The Garmin Rino is a two-way radio with a built-in display that shows, with a simple push of a button, approximately where your partner is. The radio has an eight-kilometre range, and its global positioning system unit can also pick up other Rino users in the area.” Source: Canadiangeographic.ca
hot buzz
What's the latest in the world of two-way radios?
Dick Tracy fans take note: tiny transmitter tubes have made the wrist radio a reality. Two-way wrist radios like the Royal 2-Way FRS Radios pack a transmission range of up to 1.5 miles. While they may be a bit bulky on your wrist, these tiny two-way radios are perfect for keeping Prune Face and Flat Top at bay or for staying in touch on camping and hiking trips.
Wallet Impact
What can I expect in my price range?
| Price | Description | Good Pick (see all Two-Way Radios) |
| $ | Budget two-way radios feature ranges up to five miles, backlit displays, and around 22 channels. Many of these models are available in two-packs for immediate use. Look for battery meters, channel lock, around ten call tones, a charger and a belt clip. |
Compare prices at 2 stores $26 - $29 |
| $$ | Midrange two-way radios include more privacy codes to minimize interference and access to weather and emergency bands. Two-way radios at the low end of this range are good family and general-use units. As prices rise, you’ll find higher wattage and more durable designs. |
Compare prices at 12 stores $45 - $120 |
| $$$ | High-end two-way radios are generally designed for specialized use. Outdoor enthusiasts should look for shock-resistant, waterproof casings and built-in Global Positioning System (GPS) trackers, as well as long battery life. Business users can choose between durable long-range GMRS two-way radios with built-in rechargeable batteries or specialized units that transmit privately on a single, leased channel. Many two-way radios in this range are sold as single units with multi-unit base chargers sold separately. |
Compare prices at 2 stores $141 - $218 |
shop talk
What are the terms and definitions I need to know about?
Channel lock
A two-way radio feature that tunes the radio to a specific channel for quicker communications. Some two-way radios include advanced channel lock that lets you assign a number to a frequently used channel, making operation similar to using a telephone.
Channel scan
A feature that allows a two-way radio to search all available channels for incoming communications.
Cross talk
Communications from multiple, unrelated users on a single radio channel.
FRS
Family Radio Service, a set of low-range two-way radio frequencies that are free to use.
GMRS
General Mobile Radio Service, a set of frequencies that work for both short- and long-range communications. An FCC license is required to use frequencies with a range of two or more miles.
Privacy code
Technically known as Continuous Tone Coded Squelch System (CTCSS), this feature divides a single channel into several code-protected zones for clearer communication and privacy and may include scrambling that makes your conversations unintelligible to outside listeners. This feature requires two compatible two-way radios that can share a single privacy code.
Range
The farthest distance at which a two-way radio can transmit. Range is limited by a two-way radio’s wattage and by the presence of obstacles, such as buildings, mountains or trees, between the units.
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