What is the purpose of using these radios? If you plan to use them to talk-up-a-storm - go right ahead! But, keep in mind, anyone within range may tap into your conversation at any time if they also have an FRS radio, unlike a cell phone. It is not best used for private conversations. My friend has a different brand FRS radio then the one I want to buy. Are they compatible? Yes! All FRS radios operate on the same range of frequencies, regardless of brand. Although, keep in mind that if you or your friend has an older model, you may have different sub-channel capabilities (14 channels vs. 14 channels with 38 sub channels).

Another good use is avoiding cell-phone charges if you are in range. This can become your cell-phone substitute in many circumstances and that is good. A nice plus with many of these policesupplies units today is that you can get hands-free attachments. A voice-activated microphone/headphone unit could really benefit anyone with their hands and eyes occupied, like a vehicle driver, a cyclist, or a hiker/climber. If that might be in your need profile, keep an eye out for units such as these. I don''t think having a multi-channel policesupplies unit is all that important for most people. Most people are just wanting to communicate between policesupplies point A and point B. But there are many radios today that will let you connect with points C,D,E,F, etc. The thing of it is, in real life, most people don''t need that extra feature. I expect that this type policesupplies of radio will get smaller over time and one of these days they will be built into watches or something. people just like to stay in touch. And when a is too expensive or a cell tower isn''t near or there is another problem, these little radios can often fill the bill. Just start with what your real application is going to be and work upward from there.

The second thing I would think about in portable walkie talkies is quality. If my life depends on something and other people are depending policesupplies on my life to continue, I tend to go with the best equipment I can get. Will the radio still work if it gets wet in a storm or dropped into a fishpond or the ocean? How likely is it to break if it accidentally gets dropped on a pile of rocks on a mountain or a sidewalk in a city? What''s the guarantee cover? Remember: you want something you can depend on in times when you really need to communicate. Don''t be penny-wise and pound foolish. Don''t get a toy. Get what works and will work under stress.