RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Ailunce HD1 vs Baofeng DM-1701
The Ailunce HD1 offers better listed specifications for the money, scoring 78 versus 64 overall. It includes APRS and GPS capabilities that the Baofeng DM-1701 lacks, and owners report similarly high satisfaction across both models (4.2 versus 4.1 stars), though the HD1 benefits from a larger review sample of 268 owners versus 76.
The single most important differentiator is price versus features. The HD1 costs $150 but includes APRS and GPS alongside DMR. The DM-1701 costs just $44 and offers DMR only.
The Baofeng DM-1701 suits buyers who need basic DMR capability on an extremely tight budget and can live without positioning features. The Ailunce HD1 suits anyone wanting a more complete digital radio package and willing to spend three times as much.
For most amateur radio operators, the HD1 represents the better value proposition given its additional capabilities and stronger specifications-to-price ratio. However, budget-conscious operators running simple DMR networks will find the DM-1701 adequate. Owner ratings show both perform acceptably in real-world use.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained first-time DMR licensee
It costs far less than the alternative, making it a low-risk way to learn DMR operation.
DM-1701 DMRCasual user exploring digital modes
Its lower price and simpler DMR-only feature set suit someone testing digital modes before committing more money.
DM-1701 DMRField operator doing SOTA or POTA activations
Its 10W transmit power, IP67 rating, and GPS support handle rugged outdoor activations better.
HD1Hams needing dual-band versatility on a tight budget
It offers VHF and UHF coverage at a much lower cost than the alternative.
DM-1701 DMROperator wanting APRS and DMR in one handheld
It includes APRS and GPS alongside DMR, which the other radio does not offer.
HD1
Reasons to choose Ailunce HD1
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- IP67 water resistance
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701
- No clear advantages in this comparison
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Ailunce HD1PICK
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