Switching from CB to GMRS Two-Way Radios

Two-way radio communication continues to prove its importance as outdoor adventurers take on explorations through off-roading, hiking, fishing, hunting, camping, RVing, and more.

Two-way radios are no exception to improvements in technology. In this article, we break down CB Radios, GMRS, and why making the switch from CB to GMRS will improve your communication.

About CB Radio

Citizens Band Radio, otherwise known as CB radio, was invented in 1945 by Al Gross. 

CB radio operates on 40 shared channels in AM mode. With maximum power topping out at 4 Watts, there is no license required to operate a CB radio. CB operates on 40 shared channels, but Channel 9 is reserved for emergencies. With a maximum of 4 Watts, CB radio is designed for short-range communication. 

The CB radio rose to fame in the 1970s as it became a staple in pop culture, featured in Burt Reynolds' classic Smokey and the Bandit and Cledus Maggard & the Citizen's Band 1976 hit White Night. 

Midland Radio is known as the first CB radio manufacturer in the United States. While CB continues to be a primary source of communication in some industries, like over-the-road trucking, it does characteristically produce some static.

About GMRS Two-Way Radio

General Mobile Radio Service or GMRS radio takes power to the next level. 

Operating on the UHF frequency in FM Mode, GMRS brings clear & crisp communication. GMRS two-way radio communication offers up power in a range of anything over 2 Watts and up to 50 Watts. Range is dependent on wattage, line of sight, terrain, and other obstacles such as trees.

All GMRS two-way radios operate on a set of pre-programmed channels so users won't have to worry about any programming for general use.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) does require users to obtain a license. However, the license is only $35, good for 10 years and covers your immediate family.

Midland broke into the GMRS market with its MicroMobile line in 2016. Now, Midland offers MicroMobiles from 15 Watts, all the way to 50 Watts of power.

Making the Switch from CB to GMRS

As GMRS two-way radio technology advances, Midland has seen a large number of off-road groups make the switch from CB to GMRS radios. Because GMRS two-way radio operates in FM rather than in AM mode like CB, GMRS brings in crisp communication with little to no static.

GMRS two-way radios are easy to use and for many of Midland's MicroMobiles, vehicle installations can be complete in minutes. No antenna tuning is required with GMRS antennas.

With Midland's 50 Watt GMRS radios, users get more than 10 times the power of CB radios.

Midland's Offering of GMRS MicroMobile Two-Way Radios - Comparison

MXT115 

The MXT115 boast 15 watts, more than triple the power of traditional handheld two-way radios. This is a great starter GMRS MicroMobile two-way radio for users looking to amp up their communication.

Easy to use and install, the MXT115 features all eight GMRS repeater channels. It's also compatible with all of Midland's FRS & GMRS handheld walkie talkies. 

The MXT115 is also equipped with NOAA Weather Radio, keeping users up to date with the latest information straight from the National Weather Service. This way users will get the time they need to act in case of inclement weather or emergencies.

With a USB-C port, the MXT115 offers the fastest charge time for devices like handheld two-way radios, cellphones, tablets, etc.

MXT275

The MXT275 keeps users connected with its 15 Watts of power, more than three times the power of CB radio and traditional handheld two-way radios.

This GMRS radio features a fully-integrated control microphone, meaning all the radio's base station controls can be found on the mic. Because of this, the radio unit can be hidden away in the glove compartment, center console, or under the seat of the vehicle. 

With its compact size and ease of use, installation only takes minutes and can simply be connected to a vehicle's DC adapter. 

Like the MXT115, the MXT275 is compatible with all Midland FRS & GMRS two-way radios. The NXT275 also gives users access to all 15 GMRS channels and is repeater capable with its eight repeater channels.

Its NOAA Weather Radio also keeps users safe & alert if inclement weather heads their way. 

MXT500

The MXT500 brings 50 watts of power. That's the maximum power allowed by law. It also comes with an IP66 Waterproof rating so it can perform in all elements. 

The MXT500 is both narrow & wide band, utilizing 15 GMRS channels and eight high-powered repeater channels. Not to mention, it is also split tone capable.

Like the others, the MXT500 is also equipped with NOAA Weather Radio, so users can receive alerts straight from the National Weather Service as soon as it's issued.

You are also able to charge devices like cellphones, tablets, and walkies using the MXT500 and its USB-C charging port. The MXT500 is also compatible with all Midland FRS & GMRS handheld two-way radios.

MXT575

Like the MXT500, the MXT575 takes radio power to the max with 50 Watts of power. 

The MXT575 has a fully-integrated control microphone, so the controls are all on the mic. Because of this, you can hide the radio unit away, keeping precious dash space from getting crowded. You have the ability to change channels, turn up the volume, and transmit with the push of a button right in your hand.

The MXT575 operates on both wide & narrow band, utilizing 15 high-powered GMRS channels and eight repeater channels. Like the MXT500, the MXT575 is split tone capable and also features NOAA Weather Radio. Additionally, it also has a USB-C charging port for charging other devices and is also compatible with Midland FRS & GMRS handhelds.