Overview

As indicated these radios do not require an Ofcom licence to use, they all operate on 8 fixed frequencies, have a transmit power of 500mWatts maximum, maybe used throughout the UK and in most EU countries.

Advantages

No licence required
Inexpensive to purchase
Simple to use
Can be used throughout the UK and EU

Disadvantages

Prone to interference from other users because of limited number of channels over a wide area.
Coverage limited due to the low maximum allowed transmit power.
Cannot be connected to a repeater base to increase coverage.
Range often quoted as up to 8Kmtr this is highly optimistic often reduced to tens of meters in built-up areas.
Not as robust as professional radios.
Cheaper models usually uneconomic to repair.
Not secure as they can be monitored by anyone with another licence free radio.
Do not have the full range of features available to professional radios.
Limited range of accessories available.

Suitability

Leisure Style 446

More suitable for infrequent use as they are not as durable as the semi-professional units. May be used in smaller establishments where coverage is not likely to be a problem.

Semi-Professional 446
More durable and suitable for more frequent use than the leisure style 446 they usually have extra features and a wider range of accessories available. May be used in smaller establishments where coverage is not likely to be a problem or as replacements for Leisure style 446 where minor coverage issues are a problem.

Recommended Licence Free Radios for Schools

Leisure Style