RadioRanked verdict
Updated Aug 2026ABBREE 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.
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-30WBudget-conscious user needing maximum channel capacity
The significantly lower price and vast channel memory offer superior value.
DM-1701 DMRHams focusing on modern DMR digital networking
It natively supports DMR, which is a key digital mode for modern ham radio.
DM-1701 DMROperator needing reliability for coordinated net operations
The AR-30W is designed for coordinated nets, suggesting better operational stability.
ABBREE AR-30WCasual 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
Made your choice?
ABBREE AR-30W
$103.98 on AmazonBaofeng DM-1701PICK
$61.74 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

