Ready when networks fail.
Pre-programmed radio kits for family, travel, and teams.
No cell service or subscription required.
Choose your kit.
Radios, batteries, case, charging cables, and programming included.
Models · batteries · case sizesCompare every kit
| Kit details | 2-radio kit | 4-radio kit | 5-radio kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price · free U.S. shipping | $125 | $200 | $300 |
| Radio model | Mini-5Next gen | UV-5R Mini | Mini-5Next gen |
| Battery · per radio | 2,200mAh | 1,600mAh | 2,200mAh |
| Included charging cables | 1-to-2 USB-C splitter | 1-to-4 USB-C splitter | 5 USB-A to USB-C cables |
| Case exterior · L × W × H | 9¼ × 7½ × 4⅜ in. | 9¼ × 7½ × 4⅜ in. | 13½ × 11⅜ × 6 in. |
| Order your kit |
FAQ
A few answers before you order.
How far can they reach?
Think in terms of line of sight, not a fixed coverage radius. Between two handhelds, roughly ½–2 miles is realistic in dense neighborhoods, buildings, vehicles, or heavy woods; around 2–5 miles is possible across open, relatively clear terrain. In a best-case setup with both operators elevated and a clean, unobstructed path, 10–20+ miles can be achievable, and exceptional summit-to-summit paths may go farther. Hills, valleys, steel structures, wet foliage, and holding the radio low can reduce range sharply. A well-positioned repeater can provide much wider regional coverage.
How long do the batteries last?
The UV-5R Mini uses a 1,600mAh battery. The next-generation Mini-5 included in the 2- and 5-radio kits has a 2,200mAh battery—600mAh, or 37.5%, more rated capacity. A full charge can often cover a day of light, intermittent use; heavy transmitting, high power, scanning, cold weather, and battery age shorten runtime. USB-C makes vehicle or power-bank top-ups easy.
Which channels are included?
The standard channel plan includes commonly used GMRS, FRS, and MURS channels; NOAA weather; Marine channels; and selected aviation monitoring frequencies. Custom channel plans can be requested before shipment.
Can I customize my kit?
Yes. You can request a custom channel plan and ask about a personalized exterior identification badge for a team name, call sign, vehicle, unit, or other label. Email Signal Ready after ordering if the PayPal options do not cover what you need.
How does ordering work?
Choose a kit and select any available options in the PayPal cart. We program, check, and pack your radios in Maryland, then ship your complete kit to you.
What about shipping and payment?
Shipping is always free within the United States. We do not currently ship internationally. PayPal handles checkout and payment details; this website does not store your card information.
More radio questions
What is the difference between HAM, GMRS, FRS, and MURS?
HAM offers broad flexibility and repeater access. GMRS is popular for family and group communication, while FRS and MURS are commonly used for shorter-range personal or team communication. Each service has different capabilities, but the practical goal is the same: clear, organized communication.
What should I know before using the radios?
Users are responsible for safe, responsible, and lawful use of the radios.
What is a repeater, and how can it improve range?
A repeater receives a radio signal at a well-positioned site—often on a tower, hill, or tall building—and retransmits it over a wider area. That higher antenna can reach around terrain and structures that block direct handheld-to-handheld communication. Repeater access depends on compatible programming and the repeater’s operating setup.
Do “privacy codes” make a conversation private?
No. CTCSS and DCS tones only filter which signals open your radio’s speaker. Anyone listening on the same frequency without that filter can still hear the transmission. They reduce unwanted chatter; they do not encrypt it.
Will these radios communicate with other brands?
Usually yes when the radios use the same frequency, channel width, tone settings, and repeater configuration. Brand names do not have to match. Signal Ready can help coordinate a compatible channel plan for your team’s existing equipment.
Does programming increase range?
No. Programming makes the radio faster and easier to use, but range depends mainly on antenna height and quality, terrain, obstructions, frequency, transmit power, and repeater access. Moving to higher, clearer ground is often the most effective improvement.
Which charging cables come with each kit?
The 2-radio kit includes a 1-to-2 USB-C charging splitter. The 4-radio kit includes a 1-to-4 USB-C charging splitter. The 5-radio kit includes five separate USB-A to USB-C cables—one for each Mini-5. Use a compatible USB power source, such as a wall adapter, vehicle USB port, or power bank.
Do the radios need cellular service, Wi-Fi, or a subscription?
No. Direct radio-to-radio communication works independently of cellular towers, Wi-Fi, apps, and monthly service plans. Range still depends on terrain and line of sight, but the radios are designed to provide a separate communication option when normal networks are unavailable or unreliable.
Who assembles and ships the kits?
Signal Ready is a veteran-owned small business in Dunkirk, Maryland. Each kit is assembled, programmed, checked, and packed there, questions go directly to the builder, and payment is handled securely through PayPal.