For preppers and emergency preparedness enthusiasts, having reliable communication tools is essential for staying informed, coordinating with others, and even signaling for help when other systems fail.
Radios are indispensable tools for these purposes, providing a means of communication and information even when cell networks or the internet are unavailable.
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This guide highlights some of the best radios for preppers, with a breakdown of options that require licenses and those that don’t, including the pros and cons of each.
Table of Contents
Unlicensed Radio Options
Unlicensed radios are straightforward to use and are ideal for beginners or those who prefer simplicity. They require no formal training or exam to operate legally, making them accessible for anyone.
Family Radio Service (FRS) Radios
Overview:
FRS radios are short-range walkie-talkies operating in the UHF band (462-467 MHz). These radios are ideal for short-distance communication and don’t require a license.
🌟 Popular Model: Motorola T605
Pros:
- No License Required: Easy to use without any certification.
- Budget-Friendly: Affordable and widely available.
- Simple Operation: Great for families and small groups.
Cons:
- Limited Range: Usually 0.5 to 2 miles, depending on obstacles.
- Low Power Output: Restricted to 2 watts, limiting signal strength.
Best For: Family activities, local communication within parks, camping sites, and event coordination.
Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) Radios
Overview:
MURS radios operate in the VHF range (151-154 MHz) and offer moderate-range communication. They are often used in rural settings where open landscapes allow for better VHF performance.
🌟 Popular Model: BTECH MURS-V2
Pros:
- No License Required: Operates on five unlicensed frequencies.
- Good Outdoor Range: Performs well in open, rural areas.
- Allows External Antennas: Some models can use external antennas to improve range.
Cons:
- Limited Channels: Only five MURS channels.
- Range Dependent on Terrain: Best in open areas and less effective in dense urban settings.
Best For: Rural and outdoor use, local communication in campsites, and light-duty small business use.
Citizens Band (CB) Radios
Overview:
CB radios operate on 40 channels within the 27 MHz range and are popular for vehicle-to-vehicle communication. CB doesn’t require a license and is often used by truckers, off-roaders, and convoy travelers.
Pros:
- No License Required: Open to all for immediate use.
- Wide User Base: Standardized channels make it easy to find and communicate with others.
- Decent Range in Open Areas: Can reach up to 5 miles in ideal conditions.
Cons:
- Limited Range in Urban Areas: Buildings and obstacles can reduce effectiveness.
- Heavier Setup for Mobile Use: Often requires a vehicle mount and a dedicated antenna.
Best For: Vehicle-to-vehicle communication, off-road adventures, and convoy coordination.
Licensed Radio Options
Licensed radios provide significantly more power and range than unlicensed options, making them ideal for preppers who need extended communication capabilities. A license grants access to additional frequencies and often allows for repeater use, extending the range even further.
General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)
Overview:
GMRS radios operate on UHF frequencies (462-467 MHz), offering higher power than FRS and allowing for the use of repeaters. A license is required to operate GMRS, but no exam is necessary, and one license covers an entire family.
🌟 Popular Model: Midland GXT1000VP4
Pros:
- Higher Power Output: Up to 50 watts on certain channels, resulting in a longer range.
- Repeater Access: Some GMRS frequencies support repeaters, extending communication range.
- Family License: A single license covers all family members.
Cons:
- License Required: Must apply for an FCC license, which costs around $70.
- Higher Cost: More powerful GMRS radios can be pricier than FRS.
Best For: Family groups needing reliable communication over moderate distances, off-road enthusiasts, and emergency preparedness.
Amateur (Ham) Radio
Overview:
Ham radios, particularly those accessible with a Technician Class license, provide extensive range options and access to both VHF and UHF frequencies. The Technician license requires passing a test, but it opens up versatile communication options for preppers.
🌟 Popular Model: Baofeng UV-5R
Pros:
- Extensive Range: Capable of communicating over long distances, especially with repeaters.
- Versatile Frequencies: Access to multiple bands, including 2 meters and 70 centimeters.
- Community Support: Ham radio has a large, supportive community and emergency networks.
Cons:
- Requires License and Exam: You must pass an exam to obtain a Technician Class license.
- Learning Curve: Programming and operating ham radios can be complex for beginners.
Best For: Serious preppers, long-distance communication, and those interested in joining ham radio communities for emergency response.
Digital Mobile Radio (DMR) – Ham Radio
Overview:
DMR radios, also popular among ham radio operators, offer digital transmission that enhances voice clarity and allows for various data services. With a Technician Class license, you can use DMR for both local and long-distance communication.
🌟 Popular Model: Anytone AT-D878UV
Pros:
- Clear Digital Audio: Digital transmissions reduce noise, providing better audio quality.
- Data Capabilities: Some DMR radios support text and GPS data transmission.
- Access to DMR Networks: Digital repeaters enable connections with other DMR users globally.
Cons:
- License Required: DMR use on ham bands requires a Technician license.
- More Complex Setup: Configuring digital networks and repeaters can be challenging.
Best For: Preppers who want advanced features, clear audio, and access to global ham radio networks.
Summary Table of Radio Options
| Radio Type | Frequency Range | License Requirement | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FRS | 462-467 MHz (UHF) | None | Affordable, no license, simple operation | Limited range, low power | Family activities, short-range communication |
| MURS | 151-154 MHz (VHF) | None | Good outdoor range, no license | Limited channels, range affected by terrain | Rural communication, small business use |
| CB | 27 MHz (HF) | None | No license, good range in open areas | Heavy vehicle setup, limited urban range | Off-road trips, vehicle convoys |
| GMRS | 462-467 MHz (UHF) | License required, no exam | High power, repeater access, family coverage | License cost, higher radio cost | Family communication, emergency preparedness |
| Ham Radio (VHF/UHF) | 144-148 MHz (VHF), 420-450 MHz (UHF) | Technician License | Extensive range, repeater access, community support | License exam, learning curve | Long-distance prepper communication, emergency |
| DMR (Ham) | VHF/UHF (Digital) | Technician License | Clear audio, data capabilities, global reach | License and setup complexity | Advanced communication, digital features |
Conclusion
Choosing the best radio depends on your needs, the type of environment, and your willingness to obtain a license. FRS, MURS, and CB radios are accessible for beginners and provide practical communication without licensing. For those who need more range and are willing to invest in licensing, GMRS, ham radio (Technician Class), and DMR offer extended capabilities, access to repeaters, and long-distance options.
By selecting the right radio for your preparedness plan, you’ll be equipped to stay connected with others, stay informed, and communicate effectively in emergencies.
