Samantha Biggers
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Editor’s Note: This resource has been revised and updated for 2019.
Short range radio communications have some major advantages at times. First the radios used are often much more functional and rugged for general use than a cell phone and besides the initial purchase price and the cost of keeping up the batteries, they are less expensive than a cell phone. When cells won’t work, your short range radios probably still will.
The MURS system allows civilian users to have a radio network that does not require any special certifications or licenses to get. There is little wonder to the fact that there are a lot of choices for radios.
Backdoor Survival has compiled this list of MURS radios in a variety of price ranges. and some things that are helpful when getting started in the world of radio communications.
Frequencies Dedicated to MURS
- 151.820 MHz (11.25 kHz)
- 151.880 MHz (11.25 kHz)
- 151.940 MHz (11.25 kHz)
- 154.570 MHz (20.00 kHz)
- 154.600 MHz (20.00 kHz)
Limits
There is no age limit to use the MURS system in any way. You are however limited to a transmitter power output of 2 watts. Anything above this is technically an FCC violation.
Practice Using Them
It is easy to put a radio away and forget about it until you really need it. Get out and use your radio a bit so that you are proficient in all its functions. This can be a lot of fun actually. Taking them on an overnight camping trip could make for a good practice adventure.
Others Are Listening
It is important to realize that this is an open system. Others that have their radios on can hear what you are saying so don’t say anything you don’t want a lot of people to know.
Of course, since there is so little privacy anymore, especially when it comes to communications, this should be something you are used to by now!
Creating Your Own Code & System
There is nothing to stop you from creating your own speaking codes or similar. You also need to consider just how many radios you actually need to have good communications with your group or family. You can save quite a bit by purchasing multiple radios.
Every Day Uses
Some of you may be living off grid or farming some acreage. Around a larger property, radio communications can make a lot of sense. There is a reason why so many grounds crews and others still use radios instead of relying entirely on cell phones.
Radios are cheaper in the long run and generally much more rugged. Plus you can rely on battery powered radios to work when the power is out.
Recharging
There are all kinds of re chargers out there to meet any needs. Solar powered chargers have the advantage of being available to charge even when the grid is down. Solar generators and other options are out there as well. It is a good idea to keep some charged up extra batteries on hand at all times.
During an emergency you may be using your radio a lot more than you would ever imagine. When you order a radio, go ahead and get an extra battery so you don’t just forget later. At job sites where they are used often, multiple charging stations and enough batteries to make changes quick and easy are the norm.
Expensive Brands Versus Budget
There is something to be said for buying a brand that is known and trusted. At the same time we live in a day and age when electronics are so mass produced that you may not be getting the difference you expect in terms of quality.
I have no doubt that you will probably be really happy with an expensive Motorola but you might be just as happy with a cheaper Murs radio. This technology is common enough that I don’t think you need to buy the most expensive radio to be happy with the performance.
Ruggedness
The ruggedness of your radio is important. Outside under harsh conditions, waterproof and shock resistant features come into play more often. Check the specs on any radio before you buy it to make sure that it is actually tough enough for the abuse you are going to throw at it.
Murs Radio Comparison Table
Dakota Alert MURS Wireless 2-Way Handheld Radio
BaoFeng Dual Band Two Way Radio
Motorola RMM2050 On-Site Two-Way Business Radio
Some Radios To Consider
BaoFeng Dual Band Two Way Radio
- Frequency Range: Dual band 136-174 / 400-479.995 MHz.
- FM Radio (65.0MHz-108.0MHz). LED Flashlight.
- Large LCD Display. Hight /Low RF Power Switchable. 25KHz/12.5KHz Switchable.
- Emergency Alert. Low Battery Alert. Battery Saver. Time-out Timer. Keypad Lock.
This is a solid value priced radio. So far it gets good reviews and for a mere dollar or two extra you can get a 4 year replacement plan on it so that is not bad at all.
A pair of these are good starter radios for kids and teens or if you are just wanting to try out using radios and don’t want to commit a lot of money to it.
Dakota Alert MURS Wireless 2-Way Handheld Radio
This is just a standard two way MURS radio without a lot of special features. It comes from a trusted brand name. It has a function where it will receive any alerts from the MURS system.
Dakota claims it is capable of sending and receiving at a distance of several miles but this can vary based on the terrain. There are no shortwave or FM features.
RMM2050 Motorola Two-Way Business Radio
The Motorola is the standard for a lot of businesses and others that use their radios on a daily basis. The Motorola has up to the 2 watt power range that is the limit for regular use. These radios are capable of broadcasting up to 20 stories so they are found in a lot of office buildings.
The one disadvantage is that while they are made to handle commercial use, they are not as waterproof and rugged as some that are made for trail use. For a big in place network or getaway though, they are hard to beat. This is a basic two way radio though with no shortwave, FM, LED display or other features.
Good Deal For A Lot Of Radios On A Budget
BaoFeng BF-888S Two Way Radio
If you want a lot of radios for around your place or just a few extra to have on hand then this budget priced bundle is something to consider. These also include earpieces for those that are used to using headphones or earbuds a lot.
The earpieces kind of resemble the Bluetooth headsets that you see people use with cells so much. Battery life is about 8 hours with these but if you have this many then you can just keep a fresh radio charged or get a few extra batteries.
Reviewers comment that they are surprised how weather proof and tough these were out on the trail. This is a good gift set for any outdoors person. Other reviewers have use these on cruise ships for communication with family members and on remote trips.
Midland GXT1000VP4 Two-Way Radio
I have to give these radios credit for offering a lot of features at an affordable cost. This pair of rugged two way radios picks up 50 Channels with up to a 36-Mile range of communication in open areas with little or no obstruction.
Mountains and other obstructions of course can cut down on this a lot. The NOAA Weather channels and alert system can be nice to have if out on the trail or even if just sheltering in place during an emergency. There is a built in distress signal that allows you to alert others you are in need of assistance.
Retevis Digital/Analog Two Way Radio
With so many people using cell phones multiple times a day, it is a good idea to make MURS radios that are very cell phone like in shape, style, and functionality. This radio goes beyond basic two way communications. With the 5W power range when turned to high, you can enjoy clear communications across a greater distance.
The Safety Tracking Device has a GPS function that you can use to send your coordinates out to friends or in an emergency situation. While reviewers say this is an easy radio to use and lightweight to carry, they do mention that it is not programmable by chip and any instructions are hard to decipher.
The headset feature allows for convenient operation and listening. The full digital display and keypad are almost identical to the first Nikon cell phone I had in 2001. It is nice to be able to dial in frequencies precisely rather than using just an up and down function.
Car Or UTV 2-Way Radios
Some of you are old enough to remember when CB radios were a big fad. Everyone had a handle name and Smokey and the Bandit helped fuel the craze.
I am going to throw a few vehicle radios in here because I know plenty of preppers might want the convenience of having a radio in their car, bug out vehicle. or utility vehicle they use for work around the homestead.
XUNERS Dual Band Two Way Car Radio
This radio is easy to mount but it can also just be plugged into an existing 12 volt power system and be ready to go. This portability means you could definitely share it between a few locations if needed. It is nice that you can keep a continuous power supply to it so not so much of the worrying about batteries going on with this option.
The range can vary from 5 KM to 25 KM depending on your terrain. This radio can be programmed using the included cable. Customers comment that the software is usable with Windows 10 so most will be able to install software easily.
The bright LCD display is easy to read. This radio does not use a lot of power so it is not a major battery drain concern when plugged into a 12 volt outlet.
LUITON Two-Way Radio Transceiver Amateur Ham Radio
This all in one radio allows you to enjoy the world of ham radio as well as MURS. The blue digital display is easy on the eyes and the high output means you get a good range of communication. There is an FM band on this radio as well as shortwave.
Easy programming via your computer and the included cable means you can get this radio customized and working great in no time at all. The small size is pretty amazing considering it is a ham radio as well. I remember the ham radio my dad had and it took up the whole top of an end table and weighed over 20 lbs!
Teaching Kids & Teens
It is tempting for kids to say all kinds of things into these radios but it is up to you to instill in them that they are for communications and that you actually can get in some trouble if you are routinely broadcasting profanity and other things.
This does not offer even the privacy of a cell phone and kids need to be aware of that before being turned loose with them in any situation. Go out with them and show them how to dial in frequencies and use the radio proficiently.
Please Share Your Real Life Experience!
What radios are you using? Some preppers are going to want a radio that is more durable than others so any tips on durability and real world performance are appreciated.
Sometimes it can be hard to make judgment calls on the durability since a lot of the time these radios are not being used in a real survival or SHTF situation. With so many radios out there it was hard to pick just a few so feel free to add suggestions in the comments below!
Author Bio: Samantha Biggers lives on a mountain in North Carolina with her husband and pack of loyal hounds in a house her husband and she built themselves. When not writing she is working in their vineyard, raising Shetland sheep, or helping her husband with whatever the farm and vineyard can throw at them. She an be reached at [email protected]
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35 Responses to “The Best MURS Radios”
The lutron lt 590 will not do murs, as it is uhf only. murs is around 151 mhz which is in the vhf band. Also as others have pointed out, some of these radios include amateur radio frequencies which require a license to use. It is easy to get, there have been 5 and 6 year old kids that have done it. You guys that say you can’t be bothered to get one are letting a 5 year old beat you ? I got my novice back in 1976, upgraded to technician in 1991 after reading the books a few times, and upgraded to general 2 months after that with no additional study. The questions are available online as well as practice tests and sites that explain the material if you are inclined.
so if i bought say a bao feng bf-fh8p (uv 5r- 3rd gen 8watt two way radio .would i need a noah radio?
What are the parenthetical frequencies on the “Frequencies Dedicated to MURS” list?
They are a series of Input frequencies for repeaters in the GMRS allocation. Similar to ham radio VHF they appear to be accessed via PL tone’s and the repeater re-transmits your audio on the regular GMRS channel giving the operator greater coverage. Repeaters are all privately owned and stations need permission or access from the owner before use.
Most radio’s sold in stores and online don’t carry the ability to transmit on the input frequency or lack the PL tone capability. The ones that are available cost twice the price of ham radio equipment unless they are previously used. VHF ham radio is a lot less expensive and allows more access across different bands. Becoming a Ham radio operator cost’s about $15 for the test and a cheap Chinese radio costs about $40
meanwhile GMRS radio’s cost from $80 upwards are limited to 40 to 50 watts out and the FCC charges about $65 for a ten year license with a limited amount of channels available. GMRS radio’s are supposed to be part 95 approved devices so legally you can’t use your ham gear on GMRS signal bandwidth spacing on Ham gear and GMRS seems to be different too so while many people say they can be used it’s possible that the FCC may fine operators for using equipment not certified for use under the correct FCC subsection. Listening on GMRS frequencies locally seems to indicate that the channels are more active than many VHF ham frequencies so the likelihood of hearing information on GMRS during a TEOTWAWKI make be more likely because of the limited frequency range. In addition during major events like WWII Ham radio rights were suspended while this is not likely to be enforceable on VHF frequencies.
VHF will almost always have a lot more range than UHF radios. For that reason I have set up several radios with the 5 MURS frequencies both for myself and for friends who like to drive mountain trails on our ORVs. We have tried GMRS and FRS handheld radios (UHF Frequencies) but the range was terrible. So I set us all up with a set of VHF radios programmed for MURS frequencies. Now we have all the range we need. MURS frequencies are 151.820; 151.890; 151.940; 154.570; 154.600…however, when you search MURS frequencies some will show the last digit to be “2” instead of “0”. It seems to work fine either way. Try Woxun VHF “Commercial” radios. Be sure to get the “Commercial” version. You can program ANY VHF frequency in them. But the same Woxun in the “Amateur Radio” version will not transmit on any frequency other than official Amateur Band frequencies. Woxun’s cost more than the Baofengs but are made a lot better. IF you can find some older Kenwood TK705 these are great older commercial VHF mobile radios than will program with any VHF frequency and are extremely easy to program just using the front dials and buttons.
VHF and UHF are both line of sight. UHF is of a higher frequency than VHF, so it will have greater range because the higher the frequency, the more energy is present in the waveform.
Well, this article was pretty much useless, except for some helpful commentors! I could have learned more by reading reviews on Amazon…
First thing that should be addressed, is what is the range of these things under various conditions and terrains???
Do any offer a “standby” type feature, which allows another user to page you when they want to communicate, without you actually having to have your radio in the “on” mode?
For pre-arranged circumstances, I guess they can be handy- but hardly a replacement for cell phones of the like. What would be useful, is a radio which offered a service like ship-to-shore radios do, where you can contact an operator who can patch you through to any telephone number.
So basically, we’re talking walkie-talkies here. Nothing new…no big news. Very limited usability, and who hasn’t thought of them in they might need such a thing?
Why do I always get suckered in to reading these prepper articles? They’re always so unrealistic and useless….
One would probably actually be better off with a CB…at least that way, you could contact others who could relay messages…’cause with walkie-talkies, if your intended recipient doesn’t have his listening ears on…you’re dead in the water.
Back in the Seventies everybody had a CB radio. Some had base stations at home. Messages could be passed along by chaining and reach somebody in another state, and the reply could be handed back. Using “skips”, often weather -induced, you can cover great distances. I have talked with people in Tennessee from my pickup truck in CT. If you ran a “linear” (illegal linear amplifier), you could regularly talk to people at long distances. I had a friend who had logged conversations in 48 states from his pickup truck. His rig was so powerful that when he talked, everybody within a quarter mile could hear him through their TV. It’s illegal, but so is a lot of stuff. If the SHTF, nobody will be checking. Don’t overlook CB.
FRS Family radio Service, your common sport radios, No Lic required. Low power limits. Next common step is GMRS General Mobile Radio Service, over laps with the FRS frequencies but you are allowed some more power, and even higher power if setting up a base station, no test required for Lic, one Lic covers your family. MURS Multi-use Radio service- generally used by businesses. Amateur Radios (Hams) requires a test to get your Lic, no retest to renew. Broader range of frequencies and higher power limits and repeaters are readily available to boost your range. Hams have 3 levels, you test to advance to the next level and each new level has increased advantages. Example, the UV 5R radio in the article is considered a Ham radio and is a common first radio for new hams. The radio has a greater frequency range than what is generally used by Ham operators thus giving you access to the FRS/GMRS/MURS frequencies You just need to watch your power settings so as to not exceed the limits on each service. Without the Ham Lic you are not allowed to transmit on the Ham frequencies, but you are allowed to listen. Also, in a real emergency, you can transmit on the Ham frequencies to seek assistance, and you’ll find that the Ham operators will be glad to assist. So the UV 5R is a good emergency radio, just use it properly. I’d recommend eventually getting your Ham Lic. The Technician (initial Ham level Lic) Isn’t hard to get, there are free online testing apps that allow you to practice the test, and the question pool with answers is also available on line. The actual test, when you’re ready is conducted by 3 certified Hams and usually costs about $15 Then you apply for the Lic. which is free.
Don,
Great info and thanks for breaking it down.
“Studying” for a ham test is nothing more than memorizing the questions and the correct answers from the widely publisized question pool. I know of one new ham who went straight from unlicensed to Extra in one sitting, aceing both the Technician and the General tests. He still didn’t know how to operate a radio or do any of the technical stuff. This is like getting a universiuty degree by passing a PSAT.
The BaoFeng UV-5R is not type accepted for Part 95J and is illegal to use for transmitting on MURS frequencies. Only Part95J certificated radios may be used to transmit on MURS frequencies.
Any radio transmitter which offers frequencies within the amateur radio allocations (i.e., “ham radio”) requires an FCC license to legally operate on those frequencies. These VHF/UHF radios require a “technician” class license, which requires passing a written exam (examples of which are easy to find with a web search). (See ARRL.org for details.)
Like a driver’s license, an amateur radio license shows that you know what sorts of operations are safe and legal, and where to review the regulations that apply if you have questions. When one has a license, you will have an assigned callsign, and you will be in the habit of using it when you transmit. Hams who hear transmissions that don’t include legal callsigns may report them to the FCC for investigation.
Shortwave frequencies are used by ham radio operators for long-distance communications, but “ham radio” is not just “shortwave”, and NONE of these radios have shortwave capabilities. Because shortwave signals can travel long distances, spoken communications on shortwave frequencies require a second-level (“general”) FCC license.
Please note that the distances that most descriptions say the radio(s) cover are under ideal conditions. As with any type of handheld/mobile radio, the distance covered between two radios is dependent on where you are located. Buildings, hills, and trees can reduce the distance that radios can cover. Radios work on a line-of-sight basis. If there is something in the way, you may not be able to communicate.
Some definitions would be useful for the ignorant among us (me). What it MURS?
How does it compare to CB in terms of frequencies, etc.
What is GMRS?
Again, how does it compare?
Many of the radios listed have frequencies outside those listed for MURS. Why?
MURS stands for Multi-Use Radio Service, GMRS stands for General Mobile Service. The reason that a lot of radios have frequencies outside of the ones listed is because they can be sold outside of the US. While operating within the US, you need to stick to what is allowed by the FCC. Operating outside of what frequencies the FCC says you can use can result in heavy fines. Believe it or not, there are groups that monitor for any infractions. If they find someone in violation, they can triangulate their position and report it to the FCC. Of course, if we are in a SHTF situation that goes out the window.
GMRS allows up to 50 Watts. With a 50-60 foot tower and a good high gain antenna, you can get some real range base to mobile. You are even allowed to run a repeater! If you want to be leagal, there is only a “no test” cost only license required. I have reprogramed cheap (off eBay) Kenwood TK 481 20 watt mobile units for my cars. You can even convert two of them to a repeater. Then you can get some real range.
Tex
I use (and really love) the Motorola T600. I know their not murs, but checked against murs, the high channels (15 & up) actually out talk the murs in my area. Really enjoyed the read however. Thanks.