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License-Free Radios

Three services need no license. FRS walkie talkies use 22 channels at up to 2 watts with a fixed antenna, and they're the simplest radio to hand to family. MURS uses five VHF channels at up to 2 watts and allows removable antennas, which makes it popular on farms and job sites. CB uses 40 channels on 27 MHz, mostly in vehicles.

Ignore the range claims on the box. They assume perfect line of sight, like mountaintop to mountaintop. In town, a mile or two is typical for FRS. Height and open ground matter more than anything else.

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19 products

FRS walkie talkies 12

MURS radios 2

CB radios 5

Questions

How far do license-free radios reach?

It depends on terrain more than the radio. A mile or two in town is common for FRS, and much farther across open water or between hilltops. Box claims of 30 or more miles assume ideal line of sight.

FRS, MURS or CB: which should I get?

FRS for family outings and simple short-range use. MURS when you want a better antenna or fewer people on the channels, like farm and business use. CB for talking vehicle to vehicle, especially on highways.

Can license-free radios use repeaters?

No. FRS, MURS and CB all prohibit repeaters. If you want repeater range without a ham license, look at GMRS, which needs a license but no exam.

Product links go to BTECH and Radioddity and are NodakMesh affiliate links: we earn a commission on orders, at no extra cost to you. Prices and stock as of October 22, 2026; the retailer's page has the current price.

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