The Motorola MR350R FRS/GMRS Two way radio
The Motorola MR350R FRS/GMRS two way radio is a 22 channel communication devise from one of the pioneers in the industry. Also known as the Motorola Talkabout MR350R, the radio offers a bevy of easy-to-use features. It is designed for use in both indoors and out. Provided operation is within the effective range, the MR350 works extremely well for two-way communication among shoppers in a busy mall, between two moving vehicles in a convoy trip or for adventurers in the extreme outdoors.
The MR350R is sold and packaged with; Two Motorola TalkAbout MR350R two way radios,
two removable swivel belt clips, two rechargeable NiMH batteries, a dual drop-in desktop charger, an
emergency preparedness checklist and a user manual.
These rugged radios come equipped with Motorola’s Push-to-Talk (PTT) power boost feature. When activated, the feature extends the transmission range by increasing the transmitter power output. The MR350R also incorporates the patented VibraCall alert which is perfect in hushed or noisy places. Other noteworthy features include communication and on both FRS (Family Radio Service) and GMRS (General Mobile Radio Service), providing 22 channels each with 121 privacy codes and a voice activation (iVOX) option that allows users to talk hands-free when used with or without optional accessories.
The MR350R is manufactured using solid and sturdy materials. The design may not catch the eye, but the layout is clean and clear. Battery life is said to last up to 27 hours (of talk time) using 3AA batteries (not included) or 10 hours using the NiMH batteries Motorala provides. Buttons are extra large so that the radio is easy to operate even when using gloves.
The Motorola MR350R FRS/GMRS two way radio may even come in handy during emergency situations. NOAA weather channels, offering coverage of all government-operated NOAA weather broadcasts, plus NOAA All Hazard Alert Radio are picked up by the MR350 so that users remain updated. Additionally, the radios come equipped with an emergency alert button, LED flashlight and mini-USB charging options – convenient in situations where power is out but a charged laptop remains available.
Although the 35 mile range claimed by Motorola seems to be possible only under optimal conditions, the Motorola MR350R FRS/GMRS two way radio makes up for it with impressive and useful features. Comparable radios may be priced a little lower but with the legendary Motorola name behind this product, paying a premium for durability may not be a bad idea. With this in mind, I give this product a solid four out of five rating.