Review BTech FRS-B1

General Description

If you are looking for a 2-Way radio for business, camping, hunting, hiking or for the kids around the neighborhood, the FRS-B1 is definitely a radio to consider. There is no license fee or exam testing required, thus the designation FRS (Family Radio Service).

The range will vary by its surrounding. The FRS-B1 runs the maximum amount of power permitted on the FRS band. Here is a list of the items included with this package.

In the Box (a package of 2) (See what's included)

Included with the radio are:
- (2) BTech FRS-B1 transceivers
- (2) Li-Ion Battery Pack (3.7V 1500mAh)
- (2) Holsters
- (2) Wrist Straps
- (2) Earpieces/Microphones
- Dual Charger Base
- Wall Adapter w/ USB-C charger cable
- User Manual (15 page English)

FCC Part 95B Certified - 2AGND FRSB1

Frequency Range

22 FRS channels plus 7 NOAA Weather. The full frequency list for the FRS-B1 can be found HERE.

Specifications

The FRS-B1 is a 22 channel FRS transceiver offering features such as Scanning and NOAA Weather channels. A full list of technical specifications can be found HERE.

Enclosure

The FRS-B1 weighs in at only 4.9oz (139g) with a case dimensions of 2.1" (W) x 4.75" (H) x 1.0" (D)" (53 x 121 x 25mm)

Keypad and Features

Below the PTT button on are two additional function buttons. One is for Monitor which opens the squelch for listening to assure the channel is clear if using CTCSS receive tones. The other is Scan, used for scanning the FRS channels. A list of features can be found HERE.

Transmitter

The power level is preset to the maximum power allowed for an FRS handheld. Using another FRS handheld as the receiver, the transmit audio is very good. The radio power levels are specified to be 2W/.5W (ch 1-7 & 15-22) and 0.5W (ch 8-14).

Receiver

The FRS-B1 supports narrowband FM with good sensitivity and loud clear audio. There is also a scan mode which allows you to monitor for activity in your area.

Programming

The FRS-B1 uses a standard K1 style programming cable and the software for this radio is CHIRP. Guides and examples are available HERE.

CTCSS / DCS tones can be added to a channel as well as channel scanning options.

Below the K1 port is an orange button that serves a multiple function. A single press turns on the flashlight. A second press starts a flashing light. If the orange button is Pressed and Held, it will open the squelch and bypass the CTCSS codes allowing you to hear other stations on the same channel.

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Below the PTT button, there are the Up/Down buttons that serve multiple functions.
Under normal operation, these are used to select channels 1-22.

Pressing and Holding both changes the FRS-B1 to a NOAA weather receiver. The buttons are now used to select the 7 NOAA weather channels.

Belt Clips and Holsters

Along with the 2 included belt clips, there are two holsters. The B1 holsters have a full size clip that snaps onto the entire side of the radio. It can easily be removed as there are no screws involved.

Charging Base and Adapters

The charging cable for the B1 is a standard USB to USB-C cable. No charger base is required, only 5V USB source.

There is also a multi-radio charger base, allowing you to charge both radios at the same time using only one charger base with the included wall charge adapter and USB-C cable.

If you prefer just charging the batteries detached from the radios, there are inserts include allowing for just the batteries to be inserted. This is convenient if you have spare batteries.

Conclusion

The FRS-B1 is an affordably priced and compact FRS handheld with several options making it perfect for both general family use as well as business. It's perfect for camping, hiking, or the beach with the built in weather (NOAA) radio. Charging with a either a standard USB-C cable or the dual radio charger is also a nice plus. One less thing to pack when traveling.