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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

AnyTone AT-D168UV vs Baofeng DM-1701

Our pick

AnyTone AT-D168UV$139.99

The AnyTone AT-D168UV is the clear winner for most users, despite costing twice as much. The single most important differentiator is APRS capability, which the AnyTone provides and the Baofeng lacks. APRS is invaluable for emergency communication and tracking, making it worth the premium for serious operators.

The Baofeng DM-1701 makes sense for budget-conscious beginners who want basic DMR functionality without extra features. The AnyTone appeals to operators who need APRS integration and can justify spending more for enhanced capability and slightly better overall performance metrics.

At 140 dollars, the AnyTone represents solid value for someone building a capable handheld radio setup. The Baofeng at 70 dollars works as a secondary radio or starter unit, but you're genuinely missing functionality at that price point, not just paying less for the same thing. If APRS matters to your operations at all, the AT-D168UV's advantage justifies its cost. Otherwise, the Baofeng covers basic DMR adequately for the money. For most radioranked readers interested in versatile handheld performance, the AnyTone AT-D168UV is the better investment.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New operator needing multi-mode support

    The AT-D168UV offers more features and better support for various digital modes.

    AnyTone AT-D168UV
  • Budget-conscious beginner exploring DMR

    The Baofeng is significantly cheaper, making it a perfect entry point for digital radio use.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Serious hams needing reliable backup HT

    Its higher quality and more comprehensive feature set provide better reliability for critical ops.

    AnyTone AT-D168UV
  • Casual user prioritizing firmware flexibility

    The Baofeng appeals to users who prioritize open firmware and customization options.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Operator needing multiple networks (APRS)

    The AT-D168UV explicitly supports APRS, a key feature the Baofeng lacks.

    AnyTone AT-D168UV

Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D168UV

  • 33% more memory channels (4,000 vs 3,000)
  • Has APRS support

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 56% cheaper ($61.74 vs $139.99)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D168UVSpecBaofeng DM-1701
$139.99
Price
$61.74
67
Overall Score
64
+4% for winner
5.00W
TX Power (High)
4000
Memory Channels
3000
+33% for winner
1800 mAh
Battery
1.77in TFT Color
Display
1.77in TFT Color
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
VHF/UHF
Tuner Type
UHF
AT-D168UV
Model Number
DM 1701
2pcs Li-ion Battery Pack, Antenna, Battery Charger, Power Adapter, TYPE C Cable
Built-In Media
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Repeater
Compatible Devices
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargeable
Additional Features
Dual Band
12 months from Purchase Date
Warranty Description
2
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D168UVPICK

$139.99 on Amazon

Baofeng DM-1701

$61.74 on Amazon

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