Two-way radios for the masses [Tools & Toys]

No longer the stuff of child's play, walkie-talkies are popping up everywhere under the more grown-up name of "two-way radios." Many are even built into cellphones. But to date, they have been somewhat utilitarian in design and color (many only come in black), and even basic models start at US $30-$40; high end versions can cost $100-$150. Equipping a family of four, or letting the kids have them as toys, quickly gets pricy. Motorola's T4300 triumphs over these drawbacks. It's $20 and comes in red or yellow, and its rounded shape fits hands of all sizes [see photo, next page].