PreparedStates

Best two-way radios for emergencies: FRS and GMRS (2026)

When cell networks go down after a storm, two-way radios keep a household or neighborhood talking.

By PreparedStates editors · Updated October 22, 2026

All 3 compared

1. Motorola Talkabout T470 Two-Way Radios (2 pack)
FRS · 35 mi · None (FRS)

License-free radios for the family

4.5
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Our verdict
Our verdictResearched

FRS radios need no license, so anyone in the house can use them when cell networks are down. The 35-mile figure is a best case with clear line of sight; expect far less among buildings.

Best for License-free radios for the family

Good
  • No license needed
  • Rechargeable
Worth knowing
  • Real range is far below 35 miles

Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need long range: GMRS radios reach further (license required).

2. Midland GXT1000VP4 GMRS Two-Way Radios (2 pack)
GMRS · 36 mi · FCC GMRS license required

More power, but GMRS needs a license

4.0
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Our verdict
Our verdictResearched

Higher-power GMRS radios. The FCC says GMRS is a licensed service, so get a GMRS license before using GMRS channels.

Best for More power, but GMRS needs a license

Good
  • More power
  • Headsets included
Worth knowing
  • GMRS license needed

Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you don't want to apply for a license: choose FRS.

3. Cobra ACXT1035R FLT Floating Waterproof Walkie Talkies
37 mi

Waterproof radios that float

4.0
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Our verdict
Our verdictResearched

Waterproof to IPX7 and they float: useful for floods, boats and hurricane season.

Best for Waterproof radios that float

Good
  • Waterproof and floats
  • Rechargeable
Worth knowing
  • 37-mile figure is a best case

Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you never deal with water.

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The honest bit
Range claims of 35 miles and more assume a clear line of sight, like mountaintop to mountaintop. Among houses and trees, expect a mile or two. Plan meeting points rather than relying on range.

Before you buy

FRS radios need no license: the FCC treats them as licensed by rule, so anyone can use them.

GMRS radios have more power, but the FCC says GMRS is a licensed service

Apply for a license before using GMRS channels.

Rechargeable radios save batteries, but keep a way to recharge in an outage, or radios that also take AA batteries.

Waterproof models suit hurricanes and floods.

How we choose

We verify every product's specifications against at least two independent sources, re-check its US price and stock on a schedule where we can track it automatically, and cross-check safety-relevant claims against official guidance. Every review is labelled Researched or Used and reviewed by us: where we've bought a product, or been sent it free, and used it ourselves, its review says which; where we haven't, our verdict is a considered spec-and-evidence comparison, not a hands-on test — and commissions never change a ranking either way. Read our full methodology →

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Common questions

Do I need a license for walkie-talkies?

Not for FRS radios: the FCC says the public can use them without a license. GMRS radios require an FCC license.

How far do walkie-talkies really reach?

Far less than the box says in towns: typically a mile or two among buildings and trees. The big numbers assume clear line of sight.

Are two-way radios useful in a power outage?

Yes, for staying in touch nearby when cell service is overloaded or down. Agree on a channel in advance.

FRS or GMRS?

FRS for most families: no license. GMRS for more range if you're willing to get a license.