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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

ABBREE AR-30W vs Baofeng DM-1701

Our pick

Baofeng DM-1701$61.74

The Baofeng DM-1701 is the clear winner here. It delivers significantly better overall performance at a substantially lower price point, scoring 63 out of 100 compared to the AR-30W's 49. The single most important differentiator is DMR capability. The DM-1701 supports digital mobile radio, making it vastly more useful for modern amateur radio operations and local digital repeater networks. The AR-30W's GPS functionality doesn't compensate for this gap, as most operators can use their smartphones for navigation.

The DM-1701 should appeal to budget-conscious hams who want to participate in digital modes without breaking the bank. The AR-30W might interest someone specifically seeking GPS integration in an analog-only radio, though this is a niche use case that doesn't justify the higher cost and lower overall score.

For most operators, the Baofeng DM-1701 is the smarter choice. You're getting better features, better reviews, and better value. The $50 price difference makes this decision even easier. Unless GPS is a non-negotiable requirement for your specific application, skip the AR-30W and go with the DM-1701.

Runner-up
ABBREE AR-30W

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee needing GPS and simplicity

    Its beginner-friendly setup and integrated GPS make initial operation straightforward.

    ABBREE AR-30W
  • Budget-conscious user needing maximum channel capacity

    The significantly lower price and vast channel memory offer superior value.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Hams focusing on modern DMR digital networking

    It natively supports DMR, which is a key digital mode for modern ham radio.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Operator needing reliability for coordinated net operations

    The AR-30W is designed for coordinated nets, suggesting better operational stability.

    ABBREE AR-30W
  • Casual user exploring digital modes on a tight budget

    It provides digital mode access and high channel count without breaking the bank.

    DM-1701 DMR

Reasons to choose ABBREE AR-30W

  • Has built-in GPS

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 41% cheaper ($61.74 vs $103.98)
  • 6x more memory channels (3,000 vs 500)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

ABBREE AR-30WSpecBaofeng DM-1701
$103.98
Price
$61.74
49
Overall Score
64
+30% for winner
500
Memory Channels
3000
5.9× difference
Color LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
AR-7600
Model Number
DM 1701
1XRadio
Built-In Media
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Other two-way radios, headsets, and earpieces with Push-To-Talk and/or VOX functionality operating within the 136-174MHz and 400-480MHz frequency bands
Compatible Devices
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Dual PTT, Long Range, NOAA, VOX
Additional Features
Dual Band
NO
Warranty Description
2
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

ABBREE AR-30W

$103.98 on Amazon

Baofeng DM-1701PICK

$61.74 on Amazon

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