FRS vs GMRS vs MURS, Which One Should I Use?

Family Radio Service (FRS), General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS), and Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS) are the dominant personal radio systems in America. If you're new to this radio game, knowing the difference between these can literally save you time, money, and future headaches. This article focuses on outlining the differences and requirements for FRS, GMRS, and MURS radio services.

Family Radio Service (FRS)

FRS (Family Radio Service) is a popular option for short-range communication. It has 22 authorized channels within the frequency range of 462-467 MHz and does not require a license to use. FRS radios are commonly used for personal communication, such as family outings, camping trips, or other outdoor activities. They have a limited range of up to 1-2 miles in open areas and can be easily carried in a pocket or backpack.

Pros

1. The FCC exempts FRS from the licensing requirement.

2. Radios are inexpensive and freely available.

3. The devices function as cheap extras.

4. They have high adoption rates, meaning that there is a higher likelihood of reaching someone in times of distress.

5. Frequency modulation results in clear voice communication with no static when the transceiver is in range.

6. They share a frequency range with GMRS, further broadening the at-hand community.

Cons

1. These devices are available as hand-held radios only.

2. The ban on external antennae limits the range.

3. The high adoption rate means that it is harder to find unused channels in populated contexts (think the trip to Disney).

When you decide to get your FRS radios, we recommend the Retevis RT22 to you, which has lots of advanced features at a great price:

1. Pocket-Size and Lightweight
2. USB and Fast Charger
3. VOX Hands-Free Talking
4. SOS Emergency Alarm

General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS)

GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service) operates on higher power and can cover a larger range of up to 5 miles or more. It also has 22 channels within the frequency range of 462-467 MHz, which are shared with FRS. GMRS also has 8 additional repeater channels (15R-22R) that are exclusive to GMRS and may only be used by licensed GMRS operators. A GMRS radio license is only $35 from the FCC with no test. It lasts 10 years and covers the family. GMRS radios are often used for more professional purposes, such as hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities that require a longer range of communication.

Pros

1. More powerful transmissions are allowed. Radiation of 5 watts is permitted on the FRS channels and up to 50 watts on the remaining slots.

2. The FRS frequency overlap allows communication with unlicensed users.

3. The combination of high radiation and external antennas creates an effective range of five to ten miles, barring intervening barriers (walls, canyons, etc.)

4. Repeaters extend the effective range.

Cons

1. A $35 license is required. There’s no test (unlike HAM), and it covers the entire immediate family.

2. The effective range drops by 30% inside a vehicle. Between a hand-held and mobile installation, the drop-off is in the 10-15% range.

When you decide to get your GMRS radios, we recommend the Retevis RB19P to you, which has lots of advanced features at a great price:

1. 15mm Ultra Thin and 1.7 Inches Screen
2. GMRS Repeater Capable
3. Compatible with Earpieces
4. USB-C and Fast Charger
5. NOAA Weather Alerts

Multi-Use Radio Service (MURS)

MURS (Multi-Use Radio Service), which operates on five channels within the frequency range of 151-154 MHz. Like FRS, it does not require a license to use and has a range of up to 2 miles. MURS radios are commonly used for personal or small business communication, such as in a warehouse or retail store. They can also be used for emergency communication, as they are not affected by natural barriers like buildings or trees.

Pros

• VHF is more resilient to vegetation interference than FRS.

• The low adoption rate means that free channels are easier to find, and interference is less likely to occur.

• External antennae are allowed.

• As with FRS, FM means the voice is crisper.

• As with FRS and GMRS, the devices are relatively inexpensive, though some more advanced configurations reach a higher price bracket.

Cons

1. The low adoption rate makes it harder to be heard on this medium.

2. There are only five available channels, portending problems if the adoption rate increases.

When you decide to get your MURS radios, we recommend the Retevis RT27V to you, which has lots of advanced features at a great price:

1. Uncrowded Channels
2. Clearer Sound Quality
3. Six-Way Fast Charger
4. Rugged Construction
5. Detachable Antenna

What are the differences between FRS, MURS and GMRS radios?

FRS, GMRS, and MURS services are low-power, short-range personal radio services via two-way radio devices. They all have their advantages and limitations, and understanding them will help you make an informed decision. Here is a closer look at the differences between these types of personal radio services.

Range: One of the significant differences between FRS, GMRS and MURS radios is their range. FRS radios and MURS radios have a range of up to 2 miles, whereas GMRS radios have a range of up to 5 miles. However, the range may vary depending on the terrain, weather conditions, and obstructions in the communication path. In general, GMRS radios have a longer range due to their higher power output.

Power: Power output is another crucial factor to consider. FRS radios and MURS have a maximum power output of 2 watts, while GMRS radios have a maximum power output of 5 watts. The higher power output of GMRS radios allows for better range and clearer communication.

License: As mentioned earlier, a GMRS radio requires a license to access. The license is issued by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and costs $35 for a 10-year term. However, the license covers an entire family, so it is a one-time expense. FRS radios and MURS radios, on the other hand, do not require a license, making them a more cost-effective option for casual users.

Channels: FRS radios and GMRS radios share some frequency channels within the UHF band, while MURS radios transmit on the VHF band with only 5 channels, so MURS radios are not compatible with GMRS and FRS radios.

Conclusion – FRS vs GMRS vs MURS

In conclusion, when choosing between FRS, GMRS, and MURS, it is crucial to consider your specific needs and intended use. If you are looking for a simple and affordable option for personal use, FRS may be the best choice. For professional use and longer range communication, GMRS is a good option, but keep in mind the license requirement. Lastly, MURS is suitable for emergency or small business communication. Whichever option you pick, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations set by the FCC to ensure proper and legal use of the radio frequencies.

Thank you for reading this blog! If you have any questions, please leave your comments below. We are looking forward to your comments!