Features:
- 14 channels and 38 subcodes
- Easy push-to-talk operation
- Call button
- 2-mile range
- Backlit LCD
Description:
The GPX FRS200 has more features than most radios in its class, including support for 14 channels and 38 subcodes, a call button, a two-mile range, and a backlit LCD. It's an easy-to-use FRS radio with a value price. The FRS200 was up and running as soon as we popped in the requisite four AAA batteries. In our tests, the radio's sound quality was excellent. Its range was comparable to that of most FRS radios we've tested--one mile under average conditions, two miles under ideal conditions. Unfortunately, we ran into a few snags when we tested some of the radio's more advanced features. The call button, supposedly used to transmit a short call tone to others tuned to the same channel, transmitted nothing but static. Another feature that emits a short beep when the talk button is released (to let the others in your group know that you've finished transmitting) was more annoying than useful. Also, the radio's button layout is cumbersome. For example, the backlight button is integrated with the push-to-talk button and is far too easy to press accidentally. Finally, switching channels was more difficult than it should have been because the up button is recessed. The FRS200 is a little thicker than an average FRS radio, but overall it's compact and fits nicely in your hand. The construction of the FRS200 isn't as good as that of the more expensive radios, nor is its overall design, but with such a low price, these tradeoffs are expected. The radio supports all 14 channels assigned to FRS use, along with 38 subcodes per channel, so you shouldn't have trouble finding an available frequency. Overall, if you can live with the FRS200's minor faults, we think you'll find it a surprisingly good bargain. --T. Byrl Baker Pros:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Many features for the price
Cons:
- Poor button layout
- Call feature didn't work in our tests
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