What's The Difference Between GMRS & FRS you ask?

Well not really a whole lot to some, but, at the same time, there's a whole lot of difference. For one, FRS radios have lower transmit power (like .5 watts of RF power output), must not have the ability to remove the antenna, and FRS channels require no license to transmit on them.

GMRS radios can run more power (up to and a max of 50 watts with no max on ERP) and GMRS users may use handhelds with removable and more effective antennas, and GMRS channels require a license (about $70.00) to operate on the GMRS frequencies and said license, once approved, are good now for ten years as issued from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Each service (GMRS & FRS)) has its own set of frequency channels, and they share seven common channels. Different makes and models of radios may use different channel numbers for the same frequency. It's best to obtain radio equipment with the channels all programmed the same... Most GMRS and FRS radios have tone encoders and decoders that may go under the name “privacy code”, “PL”, Privacy Plus or the like. Some people even have referred to it as encryption...it's not encryption.

The purpose and intent behind this feature causes the transmitter to send a sub-audible (tones that can't be heard by the human ear) tone whenever the transmit button is pushed, and it causes the receiver to keep the audio silent unless a signal with the same tone is received.

Without both units having the same "tone", you are unable to hear unintended signals. So with the proper tone set on all units communicating within the same team, one can hear only your team's party on the other end -- whose radio is set to the same channel and same programmed tone code. Again, this is not encryption, anyone whose radio has the tone feature turned off and is tuned to your channel can hear every word you transmit.

To obtain longer-distance communications, GMRS licensed radio operators have capabilities far beyond that of FRS. With the use of "Base Stations and Repeaters" the user can reach across town (or across the country with a ROIP connection) with the right equipment. GMRS licensed users to have the ability to use higher power radios and repeaters that have their antennas located on towers or building.     Click here To Read More