My associates at Practical Sailor and Powerboat Reports just published a review of 7 FRS models from as many companies. The Motorola Talkabout T5200 rated highest and was a best buy followed by the Uniden Ecolink and GE Deluxe. They also tested Midland SpeakEasy #75-517, Standard SportTalk HX625A, ICOM IC-4008A and Cobra MicroTALK FRS 220. I suspect, but don't know for sure, that the innards within each line will perform about the same interms of sound and clarity, irrespective of the features that may be offered on various models. Also worth noting, GMRS units have 2 watts instead of .5 watt, thus far better range (and often less battery life). You need an operater's license for the more powerful untis, but it's just a formality, send in the form sort of thing.<br><br>Things to look for:<br><br>CTCSS (continuous tone-coded squelch systems) for less interference by artificially creating "channels"<br>DCS (digital coaded squelch) provides more "channels<br>Ease of changing CTCSS/DCS<br>Battery saver mode<br>Auto Power Off<br>Roger Tone (eliminates having to say "over")<br>Ease of changing channels<br>Ergonomics - ease of one-handed operation<br>Individual rings<br>Ability to cut of automatic squelch for max range<br>Smart Ring (confirms other radio is on, even if not answered)<br>Weather resistance<br>