A good two way radio is one of the most important tools you can have when the normal lines of communication go down. They’re also perfect for campers and hikers who are going off the grid. However, taking a look at all the options offered today can be a little confusing.
You’re more than likely going to find that most compact UHF walkie talkies are designed to work with either General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) or Family Radio Service (FRS) frequencies. While these terms might be a little confusing if you’ve never bought one before, they’re really easy to understand with a little explanation.
FRS Two Way Radios
FRS radios are designed to work with channelized frequencies spaced between 462 and 467 megahertz. While you don’t have to know anything about this slice of the electromagnetic spectrum to use them, you’ll be happy to note that this translates into less interference.
If you’ve ever used a CB radio or a baby monitor, then you might associate two-way communication with a substantial amount of static.
Due to the frequencies that FRS channels are assigned to, you shouldn’t ever hear cracking or popping noises. They also don’t require any license to use as long as you’re working with approved equipment.
All FRS branded units sold in the United States are manufactured within certain tolerances, which eliminates any regulatory guesswork. You simply need a pair of FRS handhelds to start using these frequencies.
Newer radios designed to work on FRS channels tend to be more powerful than older ones. Engineers decided to boost power output by a factor of four since this part of the UHF band experiences so little interference. This gives you the freedom to practice your walkie talkie lingo with the rest of your party over a wider physical distance.
Private line (PL) codes are available on most modern radios, and these help to reduce noise even further. Set your radio to the same PL code that everyone else in your party has. You’ll only hear their transmissions after that. This doesn’t prevent others from hearing your conversation, but it might provide a bit of clarity if the FRS frequencies became crowded after a natural disaster.
GMRS Two Way Radios
From a technician’s standpoint, GMRS frequencies are nearly identical to those used by FRS two-way radios. They’re divided up into channels that exist between 462-467 MHz, which are spaced alongside those assigned to the FRS. As a result, GMRS handhelds don’t suffer from static or noise. Atmospheric conditions won’t influence them either due to the fact that they both occupy essentially the same space in the electromagnetic spectrum.
The biggest difference between the two services is that GMRS devices require a license to use. A few specific rigs can be used in Canada without a license. More than likely, though, you’re going to have to apply for one. As long as you’re 18 years old, you can apply for a license with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and then share it with direct family members as soon as you’re approved. As long as your license stays valid, they’ll always be allowed to share it with you.
While most GMRS devices are small portable radios, you can find base and mobile stations designed for agricultural use. These larger units bare some resemblance to a trucker’s CB, but they utilize the same frequencies that all other GMRS equipment does. Since these radios connect to an external antenna, they feature an increased range as a result.
Even though this kind of equipment costs more than standard two-way radios do, many people find that the fit and finish on it tends to be a little higher. This makes it an attractive option if you’re putting together a preparedness kit for long-term storage. GMRS base models can usually be expected to work even if they haven’t been powered on for some time.
FRS vs GMRS Channels
Since a two way radio assigned to either the GMRS or FRS system uses frequencies located within the same wavelength, most users will notice relatively little difference in fidelity. Since communicating on FRS frequencies doesn’t require any paperwork, you might look at it as a better option for any situation where you don’t know who you’ll have to hand a radio out to.
If you want to communicate over the maximum range possible, then you’ll want to look into using GMRS channels instead. Higher power outputs and the ability to attach a more practical antenna makes these frequencies useful for up to several miles.
