PMR (Personal Mobile Radio) – is a standard for unlicensed radio communications, used in Europe, but prohibited in the United States and Canada. Depending on the country, the number of channels and terms of use may vary.
PMR channels
Since 2018 this communication standard includes 16 channels (before there were only 8) with a step of 12.5 kHz, in the range 446.00625–446.19375 MHz. The maximum permitted power for walkie-talkies should not exceed 0.5 watts. This condition distinguishes the PMR446 channels from the LPD frequencies, where the maximum allowed power is only 0.1 watts.
Unfortunately, 0.1 watts and even 0.5 watts are too low for comfortable communication. Low power – this is what we have to sacrifice for the sake of the opportunity to communicate without a license.
Despite the small transmitter power, PMR radio waves have high penetrating power and can provide quality communication in the city. In nature, the connection is even better.
In the city, PMR446 walkie-talkies can transmit over about 400–800 meters (0.3–0.5 miles), and in open areas they cover up to 8 kilometers (5 miles).
The communication range at PMR channels is also limited by low-power antennas that are built into such walkie-talkies.
The PMR446 frequencies are popular among skiers, they also can often be found on walkie-talkies for snowboarding. Businesses and tourists also use them.
Compared to the LPD range, there are only 16 channels in the PMR, and this is its drawback: usually, it is crowded. Typically, PMR radios are equipped with a 38-tone CTCSS codec, which can help create some privacy in the conversation.
PMR446 channel frequencies table
| Channel | Frequency, MHz |
|---|---|
| 1 | 446.00625 |
| 2 | 446.01875 |
| 3 | 446.03125 |
| 4 | 446.04375 |
| 5 | 446.05625 |
| 6 | 446.06875 |
| 7 | 446.08125 |
| 8 | 446.09375 |
| 9 | 446.10625 |
| 10 | 446.11875 |
| 11 | 446.13125 |
| 12 | 446.14375 |
| 13 | 446.15625 |
| 14 | 446.16875 |
| 15 | 446.18125 |
| 16 | 446.19375 |
Popular PMR446 Walkie-Talkies for Use in Europe
For travelers from the United States or other countries outside Europe, it is important to know that PMR446 walkie-talkies are a specific standard legally allowed only in Europe and a few other regions. They cannot be used in the U.S. due to FCC regulations, but they are a great option if you need license-free communication while traveling in Europe.
PMR446 is legally allowed in Europe and a few other regions for use without license.
Here are some of the most popular PMR446 models that you can purchase before your trip or directly in Europe:
- Motorola T82 – one of the best-selling models, rugged and reliable, ideal for hiking, camping, and family activities.
- Midland XT10 PRO (3-pack) – affordable kit for groups or team activities; good value for money.
- Dynascan P19 (2-pack) – a Spanish brand, simple and reliable, widely used in Europe.
- Dynascan EU-85 (IP55) – durable and splash-resistant, designed for tougher outdoor conditions.
- Retevis RT24 (16 channels) – budget-friendly, easy to use, with USB charging.
- Retevis RA635 – marketed as a more “professional” option for small businesses and tourism.
- Retevis RT622 – compact and ultra-lightweight, perfect for traveling light.
- Icom IC-U20SR (2-pack) – highly reputable brand, robust build, excellent audio quality, favored by hikers and climbers.
- Motorola XT420 – professional model with IP55 resistance, often used in hospitality and retail sectors.
- Midland G18 Pro (IP67) – waterproof and dustproof, designed for maximum durability outdoors.
- Motorola CLP446e – ultra-compact, commonly used in restaurants, hotels, and shops.
These walkie-talkies can be purchased online from European retailers (such as Amazon.es, Decathlon, Onedirect, LocuraDigital, or Office-Easy). Prices generally range from €20–30 for basic entry-level models to over €100 for professional-grade, heavy-duty units.
Tip: If you are traveling from the U.S., make sure you buy PMR446-compatible versions, as American FRS/GMRS radios cannot legally operate on European frequencies.
