10 Best MURS Radios of 2024 – Reviews & Buying Guide

If you need a two way radio that you can use for business and personal needs, you need to get one of the best MURS radios.

Today, many people use their MURS radios in their day-to-day communication needs. Consequently, some of the areas that people use these radios in include construction sites, farming and hunting.

In addition, these radios are good for warehouse employees, security personnel and event managers. On the same note, just about anyone can find a use for these radios in their line of work.

But first, you might want to know what a MURS radio is. So, here we go …

What Are MURS Radios?

This is a two-way radio service that the FCC established in 2000. In addition, the Multi-Use Radio Service has a blanket license. Consequently, this means that individual users of the service don’t need to apply for individual licenses. However, there is a catch, if we may call it that. You must use a radio that is certified for MURS.

Since MURS operates on 5 VHF frequencies, it means that these radios are good for short-range transmission. In addition, the radios have a maximum wattage of 2W, so the maximum range they can do is 2 to 5 miles. Therefore, they are useful for short-range outdoor communication since VHF does not penetrate walls, unlike UHF.

Now that you know what MURS radios and service is, you need to find out what radio to order. However, there are not many of these radios. Therefore, getting one might be a challenge.

In the coming sections, we shall look at the reviews of MURS radios, a simple buying guide and frequently asked questions.

Best Murs Radio Comparison Chart 2022

The Best MURS Radio Reviews 2022

This is where the rubber hits the road, with reviews for a MURS radio for sale that can meet your needs.

1. BTECH MURS-V1 License Free MURS Two-Way Radio

This BTECH MURS-V1 comes from BaoFeng, one of the most renowned brand names for different types of radios. Therefore, it is no surprise that this MURS radio takes the top spot in this review article. It has some admirable features too, so you might love it.

Features

This license-free MURS radio has a sturdy and compact build. Therefore, it is not going to break and burst open if you drop it. In addition, it is black in color and it comes with a small, backlit display with blue color. Therefore, you can be able to read the displayed data well even in the daytime.

In addition to the 5 VHF frequencies, this radio is also able to tune to the FM band in the frequency range of 65 to 108MHz. In addition, this radio switches between 12.5 kHz and 20 kHz for the 15 channels allowed on MURS radios. However, that is not all because the radio can monitor 2 channels at the same time. The channel that gets a signal first gets priority over the other.

For power, this radio comes with a 1800mAh Li-ion rechargeable battery that can last a couple of days on one charge. It can also last longer than that on standby mode. In addition, the radio is compatible with Kenwood 1 speakers, so you can set it up and listen over an external speaker.

One disadvantage that you will note with this radio is that the user manual is poorly written. Therefore, if you are a beginner and this is your first time, you can find it hard to get started.

BTECH MURS-V1 Manual

Pros

• Many features for such a small radio
• The price is fair considering the features
• You can catch your favorite FM radio
• Many accessories including earpiece and clips

Cons

• Has a learning curve for beginners
• No weather updates

Bottom Line

This is an affordable radio with many bells and whistles. You might want it for its long battery time, clear transmission and other features. In addition, it has minimal downsides.

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2. Motorola RMM2050 Murs Radio

What would you say to a handheld radio that is finished with an antimicrobial coating so that it does not grow mold? That is just one of the incredible things that you might love about the Motorola RMM2050 two way MURS radio. But then, Motorola is well known for its police and military radios all over the world. Here are the features you will get with this one:

Features

Basically, this MURS radio is going to do what such a radio is supposed to do. Therefore, you can communicate with your employees on-site, students in school and workers on your ranch easily, in clear and loud tones.

However, there is more to this radio than meets the eye. For example, you can use any of the 219 PDL codes to communicate with minimal interference on public frequencies.

While the range is not fantastic, it is big enough, actually longer than most MUR radios have. It has been rated at 220,000 square feet. If there is minimal interference, the range can be longer than this.

However, it is an onsite radio meaning that your people are in the same locality as you. In addition, with some programming, you can be able to communicate on the Wal-Mart radio frequencies.

This radio comes equipped with a high quality speaker rated at 1500mW. Therefore, it enables you to communicate and hear clearly even when you are on a busy and noisy construction site. In addition, you can also activate the VOX so that you get to use the radio in hands-free mode.

There is much more going on this radio. However, there is a disadvantage because the cost is higher than most. Although you will get more than enough value for the money, not many people can afford it.

Motorola RMM2050 Manual

Pros

• Good build quality with antimicrobial coating
• Good battery life
• The speaker is powerful and loud
• Voice activate feature enables you to speak hands-free
• Has a wide range of coverage

Cons

• The radio has no display at all
• The price is steep

Bottom Line

This MURS radio is going to cost you a pretty penny, but it has so many features and excellent build quality. Therefore, you will definitely get good value for your money.

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3. Dakota Alert M538-BS MURS Base Station

Despite the odd shape of the Dakota Alert M538-BS MURS base station, it is still a transceiver, just like the others that we have reviewed here. In the same way that the regular M538 radio can receive and send messages, this base station also does the same. But first, see its features …

Features

The communication range of this device is up to 2 miles on the open range. Usually, if there are obstructions like mountains, there will be slight issues with communication. As we have seen with other MURS radios, sometimes using a longer antenna helps.

You can enjoy private conversations with this transceiver. In addition to the 5 free VHF frequencies, you also get 38 sub-channels for private communication. Therefore, these privacy codes will enable you to have a private conversation with other MURS users as long as they are transmitting on your code.

Operating this device is so easy. For instance, there is the PTT (press-to-talk) button, which you press and hold when talking. Secondly, there is the button indicated “Mon,” which is for monitoring. In addition, the built-in speaker is powerful and clear.

The disadvantage that you can expect from this radio is that you have to change the batteries about twice a year. However, they are not expensive and should be easy to find.

Dakota Alert M538-BS Manual

Pros

• Easy to use thanks to PTT, Call and Mon button
• Nice speaker, loud and clear all the time
• Good for monitoring your home as you can trigger it when you are within range
• It has a sturdy and durable build

Cons

• Antenna swivels around a bit
• Lots of static from the Mon button

Bottom Line

This is a base station from Dakota Alert. Therefore, you mostly want it sitting on a table somewhere rather than on your person. You can go for it if you are stuck to your desk and need to communicate with other members of your team on-site.

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4. Dakota Alert M538-HT Murs Radio

Dakota Alert, Inc. is a wireless equipment company that has been helping to make homes secure for a long time. In addition to their equipment range, they have this Dakota Alert M538-HT MURS wireless handheld radio. Keep reading to see the features to decide whether it can suit your needs.

Features

This radio runs on MURS frequencies and it allows you to receive and transmit to other people on MURS. Therefore, it is a transceiver. Using the 5 VHF channels, it can allow you to communicate clearly with other people without issues. However, the range is 2 miles. In addition, the radio communicates much better when there are no obstructions such as mountains and buildings.

It comes with 6AA batteries, which are rechargeable. On one charge, they will give you up to 40 hours of use time, which is almost two full days. Therefore, once the radio is charged, you can go about your business the entire day without worrying. In addition, communicate with your workmates or employees without any issues.

In addition to the 5 license-free VHF channels that every MURS radio can operate on, this radio can also enable private communication. For example, it comes with 38 privacy sub-channels. You can also use the earphones that it comes with so that you can listen privately.

In spite of the many good things about this radio, there is a disadvantage. It has a non-standard antenna connector. Therefore, it is not possible to attach a longer antenna for a longer communication range.

Dakota Alert M538-HT Manual

Pros

• The long battery life of up to 50 hours on one charge
• The transmission range is as expected
• You can communicate privately on the 38 private sub-channels
• It feels  sturdy and durable

Cons

• Cannot connect with a longer antenna
• The price is a bit steep

Bottom Line

If you would like a MURS frequency radio that works as advertised, you might love this radio. In addition, you will love extras such as private sub-channels, but the price does feel a bit steep.

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5. Retevis RT27V MURS Radios

Retevis is not a new name in the world of CB, DMR and now, MURS radios. In addition, one of the things that they are known for is their affordable prices. For example, with this one, it comes in a pack of 2! Therefore, it is a bargain if you have to buy several of them for your workmates. But first … the features!

Features

In addition to the 5 FCC license-free frequencies, you also get other extra features that transform this radio completely. For instance, you can use the advanced voice activate, also called VOX, to use the radio in hands-free mode. Additionally, you can adjust the squelch level, use voice commands and go to battery saver to save power.

These radios come with 1100mAh batteries. Additionally, on a full charge, you can use it for a couple of days. The battery is also rechargeable. In addition, it comes with a 12V adapter and a USB plug to enable you to charge the radio when you are in your car.

When you buy this MURS radio, it comes with all the accessories that make it convenient to use. For instance, it comes with a belt clip and wrist strap. In addition, this radio is simple to use even for beginners so you just need to charge it and use it.

Like any MURS handheld radio, this one too has its flipside. You will notice that it does not have a display. However, this does not inhibit usability in any way.

Retevis RT27V Manual

Pros

• It has a sturdy build quality
• Each radio is sold with a docking station
• The 12V adapter helps in charging
• The price is incredible for a pack of 2

Cons

• This radio only works on MURS frequencies

Bottom Line

If you need to buy two MURS radios for the price of one, this might be a good deal for you. It does everything that a basic MURS radio is supposed to do.

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6. TERA TR-505 Dual-Band 16-Channel MURS Radio

The one thing that sets this radio aside from the others is that it can also operate on GMRS frequencies. This stands for General Mobile Radio Service. However, to use it (GMRS), you need a license. In addition, this MURS radio also has other features, as you will see below:

Features

The TERA TR-505 radio might be what you are looking for if you need a feature-rich radio yet affordable at the same time. Firstly, this radio comes with 16 pre-programmed GMRS channels. However, for those, you will need to get a license. Therefore, you will mostly be using it as a 2-way MURS radio.

You can ramp up the power output to 4 watts. Therefore, this will give you a longer range of transmission of up to 10 miles. This is quite an increase because the usual range for MURS is 2 miles. In addition, you get to use UHF channels to communicate over such long ranges.

This radio is easily programmable. However, you will have to buy the programming cable separately. In addition, you will have to program the MURS with the free file that is available for download on their site.

The channels and volume knobs are at the top of the handset. Therefore, they are easy to reach. In addition, there is a voice alert for battery, channel, scan on/off, channel lock and so on.

The only disadvantage that this GMRS/MURS radio comes with is that it does not come with free VHF channels. Therefore, you have to program them in.

TERA TR-505 Manual

Pros

• Versatile with many channels
• You can use low power mode to save battery
• Hardy with a good quality build
• Has 16 GMRS UHF channels

Cons

• The price of this radio is steep
• Not sold with the programming cable

Bottom line

In spite of the high price that this UHF/GMRS/MURS radio sells at, it has an abundance of features that somehow justify the price.

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7. Retevis RT47V MURS Radio – 2 Pack

One OF THE BIGGEST fears for people who communicate over handheld radio is water damage, especially when caught in a torrent. However, the Retevis RT47 Waterproof radio seeks to change that narrative. The well known manufacturer says it is waterproof. Keep reading to see the certainty of this as well as other features.

Features

First, this comes in a pack of 2 radios. Therefore, it is a good deal, but it is more expensive than 2-Pack RT27V. Secondly, this radio operates on the license-free MURS VHF frequencies. With people in the same environment and without obstructions, communication is smooth enough.

You can use this walkie-talkie in severe weather without worrying about damage. On the same note, it has a waterproof rating of IP67. Therefore, it is quite true that it will keep water out. In addition, if you drop it in a pool, it will not sustain water damage up to 1 meter of water.

Just like the RT27V, these MURS radios also come with their docking stations. These help in storing the radio in the right condition when you are not using it. At the same time, they come with a charging cable that you can use to charge the batteries more conveniently, even in the car.

When the radios are delivered to you, they are fully charged and ready to work, right out of the box. You get to turn on your radio and increase or decrease the volume using the same button. In addition, to talk, just use the PTT button.

One disadvantage with these radios is that using the stock antenna does not give you much range. Therefore, if you want them for hiking, you need to keep within range, which should be less than 2 miles.

Pros

• Easy to connect with an external antenna for more range
• So easy to operate even for a newbie user
• Charging/docking stations are a nice touch
• Nice design and build quality
• Comes with a handheld microphone
• Has NOAA weather alerts

Cons

• The radio does not have a display

Bottom Line

This radio comes in a pack of 2 and it has many extras. For instance, there is adapter charging and USB charging, handheld mic and so on. It is good value for money.

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Other Radios That May Support MURS

8. Pofung UV-82 Dual Band Two Way Radio

While the Pofung UV-82 VHF radio is not marketed as a MURS radio, you will be happy because you can program the 5 free VHF channels into it. You can do that using the programming cable.

Features

First, many people love the fact that this is a semi-duplex kind of radio. Consequently, it has the ability to monitor 2 channels at the right time. When it finds one, it will give it more priority over the other. On the same note, you are going to get 128 channels on this radio.

Designed with a solid build, this radio can last long with good care. The casing is hard and protective of the delicate interior parts. However, please note that this radio is not waterproof, so you should not expose it.

This radio has dual PTT buttons. When you want to talk, you press and hold the PTT button. Other features include the channel search, low battery alarm, emergency alert and battery saver. In addition, the radio has a small display with three colors so you can choose what you like.

There are some disadvantages to this radio. First, you can program in the MURS channels. However, legally, it is not a MURS radio so you should probably not use it that way.

Pofung UV-82 Manual

Pros

• Good sturdy build and design
• The price of this radio is affordable
• Have alerts for low battery and emergency
• Easy and fun to use once you get used to it
• Has roger set, flashlight and high/low power switch

Cons

• Poor user manual and badly written too

Bottom Line

Since there are not many MURS radios in the market, it is a good idea to consider this one because you can program the 5 license-free VHF channels into it.

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9. Retevis RT6 Waterproof 2 Way Radio – 2 Pack

The versatility of this radio is so wide. For instance, it is compatible with all the common frequencies and range, and this includes MURS. In addition, if you are a MURS fan but you cannot find a MURS radio, you might consider this one because of its clarity.

Features

The Retevis RT6 radio has a waterproof rating of IP67. Therefore, if you are looking for a radio that you can use on a construction site where you are likely to be exposed to the elements, this might help. In addition, it will not sustain water damage up to a depth of 1 meter.

With 128 channels, the Retevis RT6 can meet most of your communication needs. You can also program in some channels for license-free communication. In addition, you can use it for road trips, hiking and other outdoor adventures. While MURS radios have a range of 2 miles, you can use other UHF channels for a longer range.

This radio comes with a 1800mAh high capacity battery. It can give you more than 12 hours of constant use after a full charge. On the same note, there is a low/high power switch to conserve the battery.

This is a feature-rich radio. In spite of that, you must program channels such as MURS into it using a computer. Consequently, a programming cable is included.

Retevis RT6 Manual

Pros

• 128 channels to cover diverse communication needs
• Sold in a pack of 2 at an affordable price
• It resists dust and water up to 100 meters
• Clear sound with minimal static
• Nice colored display

Cons

• Radio may fail to scan channels as manual says that scan must be set with computer

Bottom Line

Retevis has been making MURS, DMR and other types of radios for decades. Therefore, you might want to try their RT6 for long and short range communication.

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10. Dakota Alert MURS-HT-KIT Motion Sensor Kit

Although this is a kit meaning that it comprises of a motion sensor and a transceiver, we decided to include it here because it still provides two-way communication. Keep reading to see the features that it comes with.

Features

There are two main devices in this kit. One is the MURS alert transmitter, which has a PIR – Passive Infrared sensor. In the same line, it detects people, animals and vehicles when they are within a 30-80 foot range from it. In addition, there is the handheld transceiver, which gets the messages and alerts from the motion sensor.

This kit does not need an FCC license. In addition, there is no limit to the number of motion sensors and handsets that you can use. Therefore, you can connect with even more than 3 handsets and motion sensors.

Both the handset and the motion sensor are weatherproof so you can use them in extreme conditions. Therefore, even when it snows, the motion sensor will still be safe and it will work.

There is a disadvantage to this kit. For example, the handset works fine for communication with MURS handsets and getting alerts from the sensor. The sensor has the problem of not covering the advertised range.

Dakota Alert MURS-HT-KIT Manual

Pros

• Good kit for keeping your home secure
• Kill two birds with one stone – security and communicate with others
• Comes with long-lasting rechargeable batteries
• No license required by the FCC

Cons

• The cost is high so buying two or three kits can dent your wallet hard

Bottom Line

If you would like to communicate with other MURS users and secure your home or business at the same time, you might want to get this MURS – HT Kit and handset.

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What to Consider When Buying the Best MURS Radio

When looking for multi-use radio service, you will realize that there are not so many of them. However, that does not mean that you should pick the first one you come across. Consider the following factors to get a MURS radio that gives value for money:

The type of MURS radio

Here, you are limited to two choices only – the desktop ones, also called base stations and the mobile ones with belt clips and wrist straps. However, considering the environments where these radios are used, for instance, construction sites, schools, warehouses and so on, get handheld ones. However, if you are stuck at a desk, you can have the base station type.

MURS Frequencies

In our reviews, you will see that some radios come already packed with the MURS channels. However, for some models, you might have to program the channels into the radio before you can use it. In addition, it is recommended that you program it first before using it so that you don’t disrupt official communications.

Usually, there are 5, free VHF frequencies. By free, it means that you do not need an FCC license. In addition, some radios can have additional channels to enable you to meet your communication needs in a bigger way.

Before you can buy a MURS radio, consider whether it comes pre-programmed with the 5 free channels. If you will need to program them in, consider whether it comes with a programming cable or you have to buy one separately.

Check the code options too. The more they are the better because you can communicate with more people. You should get a radio with about 150 or more PDL codes. In addition, some of the codes should be customizable to enable you to have private conversations or to get a better audio signal.

In addition, consider the “watching” ability of the radio, where it can watch two channels at the same time. The radio will prioritize the channel that gets a call first.

Convenient Features

If you get a radio that runs on MURS frequencies and tones that also comes with NOAA weather updates, buy it rather than one without. That way, when you are working outside, you can get real-time alerts about the weather changes coming your way.

Other convenient features include things like belt clips, wrist straps, handheld microphones, earpieces and so on. In addition, a regular charger, a USB charger and a car charger would be great.

Some MURS radios come with docking stations. This helps in storing it properly when you are not using it.

Another feature that you should watch out for is the voice operated switch, also referred to as VOX. This will give you a totally hands-free operation. It means that the radio activates itself when you start talking. It also switches itself off when you stop.

Other features that would be great although not very necessary include a continuous tone-coded squelch system, squelch control, time-out timer, battery saver, voice commands and Busy-channel lookout.

Usability

This is about where and how you can use the MURS radio. When it comes to the range of transmission, it is 2 miles. However, when you need to increase the range, find out whether you can swap the antenna for a long one.

If you will be using the radio outside, get one that is waterproof to some degree. For instance, some radios come with a waterproof rating of IP67. On the same note, some can even work in the snow and stay dry in up to 1 meter of water.

Screen Display

Some radios, even the most expensive versions come without screens. For example, the Motorola RMM2050 has no screen. Therefore, you can buy radios without a screen and it will serve you just great.

However, a radio with a screen is much better in many ways. You can see important stats like remaining battery time, channel and others. In addition, the display does not consume too much of the battery.

FAQs for MURS Radios

Because of the scarcity of these gadgets, it is easy to fall prey to substandard items. However, here are a few of the most frequently asked questions regarding MURS radios:

Who should use MURS radios?

There is no limit unless you are working for the government. Therefore, if you are a foreman at a construction site and you want to keep tabs on everyone, get these radios. In addition, schools, security personnel and even restaurant workers can use these radios. Families can also use these radios. In addition, you can use the radio in combination with a motion sensor to keep your home secure.

What is the MURS radio range?

If there are no obstructions such as mountains, most MURS radios will do the first 2 miles cleanly. The third mile will be a bit of trial and error. However, you might want to swap the stock antenna with a bigger one if it is compatible to try for a longer range.

How many MURS channels are there?

There are five channels. These are 151.820 MHz, 151.880MHz, 151.940 MHz, 154.570 MHz and 154.600MHz. In addition, these are free frequencies so the FCC does not require you to have a license. Since these are VHF radios, they have a short range of 3 miles. Therefore, they are best suited for people who are within the same environment.

How do you use a MURS radio?

Firstly, find out whether the batteries are charged. If they are not, charge them to full capacity. On the same note, some charge inside the radio and some outside, on a hub. Therefore, check the user manual to find out what types of batteries you have.

Secondly, switch the radio on. The ON/OFF knob is also the volume knob. Therefore, this should be straightforward.

Thirdly, set the channels/frequencies that you want to monitor on your handheld or MURS base station radio. In the same line, most MURS are duo-watch meaning that it watches two channels and prioritizes the one that gets a call first.

In addition, you can set up the sub-channels for privacy by pressing the mode button just a couple of times. Once the display starts blinking, select a channel by moving up or down.

Fourthly, when the channel is set, you are ready to make a call. Therefore, just lift the radio near your face and press the PTT button. PTT means press to talk. Additionally, speak into the microphone while still holding the PTT button. Finally, release it when you are done and wait for a response.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Choosing the best MURS radios among the few available in the market need not be hard after reading this review article.

However, you may have noted that some are not dedicated to MURS only, so you may have to program the 5 MURS frequencies in. This is not too hard since they come with a programming cable.

On the same note, our recommendation is the BTECH MURS-V1 MURS Two-Way Radio. The usability, durability and features are more than enough value for the money.

If you want something good yet affordable, try any of the Retevis models that we have reviewed here.

Finally, it is best that you keep off the radios that are not entirely MURS. That way, you will not run afoul of the law.

Roger! Over.