IMO the GXT- Midland and T-series Motorolas are the 2 best choices if you're looking for consumer-grade FRS/GMRS radios. I think the best bang for the buck is probably the Midland GXT-760 or 795 (camo version) and in my experience the 760 does interoperate OK with Motorola radios even when using CTCSS privacy codes. The Motorola T8500/9500 models are a little bit thinner than the Midland and I think they fit in the hand better but any of these would be a good choice.

Don't get too hung up about the ranges quoted by the manufacturers. Your actual range is as dependent on the terrain and vegetation than it is on the radio's power output, as an example there are certain areas we hunt (woods, hills) where we're lucky to get 1/2 mile range.

I'll point out that technically the FCC requires someone in the immediate family (parent, child, sibling, spouse) of each user hold a type ZA license unless you're willing to restrict your use to channels 8-14 and their .5 watt maximum output restriction. Also if you're within approx. 50 miles of the border with Canada it is not legal to use channel 19 or channel 21. There are lines defined by treaty which show the actual areas where the channels cannot be used.