Walkie Talkie FAQs

Q: What is the difference between FRS & GMRS?

A: Family Radio Service (FRS) and General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) operate on the same frequencies, but with different power. They operate in FM mode between 462-467 mHz. The GMRS spectrum is broken up into 22 channels which are shared with FRS, and 8 additional channels that are exclusive to GMRS. FRS has a maximum power of 2 Watts or less and don't require a license to operate. GMRS handhelds can have up to 5 Watts of power and fixed GMRS radios, like Midland's MicroMobiles, can have up to 50 Watts. A GMRS license is required by the FCC to legally operate these radios. 

Q: Will my walkie talkie work with my MXT?

A: Yes! All of Midland's FRS and GMRS walkie talkies are compatible with your MicroMobile.

Q: Is there a button I can hit to send an alarm / emergency tone?

A: You can use the CALL/LOCK button to send a call tone from any of Midland's handhelds.

Q: How do I charge my walkie talkie?

A: You can use a desktop charger, AC wall adapter, and micro-USB charging cable.

Q: Do you have to use the rechargeable batteries in the handhelds?

A: No but we recommend using them, and most of our walkie talkies come with a set.

Q: Can I extend the antenna on my FRS walkie talkie?

A: Unfortunately, no. Per the FCC, FRS handhelds cannot have interchangeable or extendable antennas.

Q: Can I replace broken parts on the radio, such as the antenna?

A: Other than the detachable belt clip, radio parts are not user replaceable. 

Q: Can I program my GXT1000 to be compatible with my BizTalk radio?

A: No. The GXT is a GMRS radio, while the BizTalk (MB400, BR200) are business band radios. Because they operate on different frequencies, they can't communicate. The programming for the business radios will only allow for business frequencies to be programmed in. 

Q: Why am I not getting the full range?

A: As a rule, radio frequency is affected by things such as obstructions, terrain, weather, material, etc., which can all degrade radio signal. Midland shows the maximum range that can be reached in ideal conditions. Ideal conditions include no obstructions between you and the other person, a fully charged radio set to high power, and communication over a flat surface such as water, or mountain top to mountain top.

Q: How can I ensure I am getting the maximum power output/wattage for my radio?

A: Ensure you are using the radio in high power (channels 1-7 or 15-22) and that your batteries are fresh and fully charged.

Q: How can I reset my radio?

A: To reset your radio, press the up arrow while powering the radio on. To factory reset the GXT67 Pro, press and hold the menu and PTT buttons while powering the radio on. This will restore the radio to its factory settings. 

Q: How long is the warranty period for my walkie talkie?

A: All Midland's radios, with the exception of its BizTalk business radios and helmet intercoms, have a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase. This does not include the rechargeable batteries which have a warranty period of 90 days.

To register your product please click here.

To read Midland's warranty policy please visit this page. 

Q: How can I maximize the life of my rechargeable batteries? Should I take the batteries out when not using my radios or when they are in storage?

A. When you get your new batteries, charge them for 24 hours, then charge them 8-10 hours in between uses, if the battery is mostly depleted. We also recommend storing the batteries outside of the radios if you are going to go more than a few days without using the radios. When storing your radios, Li-ion batteries will do better when they are stored at around a 40-60% charge. Long-term storage at full charge or complete discharge can degrade the battery.

Q: Is it ok to leave my radio charging 24/7?

A: Midland recommends not charging the radios 24/7 because it depletes the batter life. We recommend charging 8-12 hours, but no more than 24 hours, before usage.