Does the MXT275 need a license?

Yes. It transmits on GMRS, which requires an FCC GMRS license in the US. It can also receive and talk to FRS radios, which need no license.

Can I use it outside a vehicle?

It runs on 12V vehicle power, so it is meant for a car, truck or off-road rig. For hiking or handheld use, a battery-powered GMRS walkie-talkie fits better.

How far will it actually reach?

Real range depends on terrain and antenna. Expect several miles between vehicles in open country and much less in hills or dense city, well short of the advertised 50 miles.

Does it work with my existing walkie-talkies?

Yes, it is compatible with FRS and GMRS radios. Set the same channel and privacy code and you can talk to them.

What comes in the box?

The radio with control microphone, slide-in mount and hardware, mic holder, magnetic antenna and mount, and a 12V power cord with vehicle adapter.

Can it use repeaters?

Yes. It supports 8 split-tone repeater channels, which extends range where a local GMRS repeater is available.

Where is the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile cheapest?

At Amazon, for $197.99, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile?

15 stores we checked sell it, including Tractor Supply Co, Lowe's, Midland USA, Best Buy, Scheels.

Midland MXT275 MicroMobile Price History: Lowest $197.99 at Amazon

What reviewers say

Owners like the clean install and the extra reach over handhelds, and many praise the weather alerts. Complaints center on the stock antenna and on the microphone-based controls.

What people mention

InstallPraisedOwners say the hideaway unit and microphone controls make for a quick, tidy install.
RangeMixedUsers report more reach than handhelds, but far less than the advertised maximum.
AntennaCriticisedThe included magnetic antenna is seen as the weak link; upgrading it helps.
Weather alertsPraisedNOAA scan and alert are called useful and reliable on the road.
ControlsMixedSome like having everything on the microphone; others find it awkward while driving.

From Midland USA

Fully-Integrated Control Mic lets you mount the base out of sight and save dashboard space
15 Watts triples the power of traditional handheld radios
Compatible with FRS and GMRS two-way radios and walkie talkies
Repeater capable with 8 split tone repeater channels
NOAA Weather Scan and Alert Technology for weather and emergency updates
USB-C for fast charging other devices

In the box: MXT275 MicroMobile GMRS two-way radio with Fully-Integrated Control Mic and low profile hideaway unit, Fully-Integrated Control Microphone - MA75, Slide-in mount with hardware - MXTA14, Mic holder - MXTA36, 2.1 dB stock magnetic antenna and mount - MXTA13, 12V Power cord with DC vehicle adapter - MXTA33

About the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile

The ultimate plug-and-play GMRS base station, the MXT275 features a Fully-Integrated Control Microphone for increased dashboard space, clear communication, and life-saving emergency alerts.

HIDEAWAY RADIO UNIT Fully-Integrated Control Mic saves dashboard space EASY INSTALLATION Equipped with DC vehicle adapter for powerIMPRESSIVE GMRS TWO-WAY RADIO RANGE 15 Watts triples the power of traditional handheld radios EXPANSIVE RADIO RANGE 8 split tone repeater channels LIFE-SAVING ALERTS Instant access to weather and emergency updates from the National Weather Service