Review on 📻 Midland LXT630VP3 36-Channel FRS Two-Way Radio: 30 Mile Range Walkie Talkie with Privacy Codes, NOAA Weather Scan & Alert - 2 Pack (Yellow/Black) by Quintin Gore

Background: I have decided to use this radio set specifically for communication between a bride for buying a wedding in USA while he was in the family, chasing a car to a limousine on the freeway, and an indoor reception to the honeymoon home (a separate building about 500 feet away). It was about 3 days of research and searching before you settled on this walkie talkie set. First I was looking for a very cheap and sophisticated radio, similar to the $500+ radios I use for work, made by our best friends overseas or "BaoFeng 888". However, the clones made by our friends are NOT LEGAL for what I wanted. Simple and easy out of the box, they are NOT currently FCC (Federal Communications Commission) approved for GMRS, CB or FRS, but their reprogramming 'can' be used for GMRS, FRS, CB or HAM but is always located still in the gray area. FCC Approved. Too confusing and complex a process for an event that is already quite confusing and confusing. In this case just better. Overview: Out of the box, this radio is legal (takes 12 hours to fully charge) without an FRS license for channels 8-14 only and has 121 privacy codes (38 CTCSS, 83 DCS). All channels except 8-14 of 36 require a GMRS license. Robust construction: extremely low weight. Discreet belt clip. Non-adjustable screen with orange backlight (PTT, PTT does not activate the backlight). Good ergonomics, rubberized PTT and headset cover. The PTT button doesn't protrude much from the case, which reduces the risk of hitting the PTT button. Lifespan: Comes with rechargeable battery and base. Also accepts 3 AAA. I had the radio from 2pm to 10pm and on PTT FRS (low power only), medium traffic and they didn't die. I can't give specifics on battery usage, but there are AAA backups, so don't worry - Microphone and speakers: In optimal conditions, this little radio can be crystal clear. Noise canceling works, no problems. The VOX function (speak only, no button) is convenient and customizable. Not needed for an event, but handy when needed. - Headset option: I bought a Midland APVH-3 headset, it worked without any problems. Decent cable length, solid PPT and VOX speaker cabinet. Can be charged via MIC port. WARNING: The speaker/microphone pen set is different from other major brands, please check compatibility when purchasing. Range: Meets maximum standards, FRS 0.5-2 miles depending on conditions. After enough research to get a PhD in walkie-talkies, these radios just work. FRS is limited by the FCC to 0.5W (1/2W or 500mW), potential maximum range dependent on conditions at approximately 2 miles. More stuff between radios = less range. GMRS has additional 5 watt bands but this requires a license (valid for 5 years and next of kin). Overall: Nothing to be dissatisfied or disappointed with radios, unfortunately they are three times more expensive than clones but nothing to worry about. Working at 0.5 watts is limited but they just work and do what I need them to. Maybe one day I'll switch to GMRS and it's nice to have that option. I wanted something LEGAL and just works. Big brand headsets are unfortunately also more expensive than regular brands and other radio brands. I like them, they work.