All of these radios operate on FCC designated business frequencies that require an FCC license. A frequency is the discrete setting on which a radio's transmission is carried; radios must operate on the same frequency to communicate with each other. They cannot be sold outside the United States due to product registration requirements.

Radios with multiple channels allow you to put different groups of users on an assigned frequency so they can operate within the same area without talking over each other. Change channels with the press of a button.

For better coverage and clearer transmissions, choose a radio with high wattage.

VHF radios work best in and around wood structures.

Radios with voice scramble allow you to input a privacy code—transmissions sound garbled to anyone listening without the same code.