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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

AnyTone AT-D878UV vs Baofeng DM-1701

Our pick

AnyTone AT-D878UV$249.99

The AnyTone AT-D878UV is the clear winner for anyone serious about DMR operations. While the Baofeng DM-1701 costs less than a third the price, you're paying for significant compromises across the board.

The most important differentiator is feature completeness. The AnyTone includes GPS and APRS capability alongside DMR, making it genuinely useful for emergency communication and mobile operations. The Baofeng strips these features entirely and hides its TX power specification, which raises reliability concerns. The AnyTone's 7W transmission also ensures better range and coverage than the Baofeng's unknown output.

The Baofeng DM-1701 suits budget-conscious beginners wanting to dip into DMR without investment, though missing specifications are a red flag. The AnyTone AT-D878UV is the proper choice for anyone planning regular DMR use, emergency preparedness, or outdoor activities where GPS integration matters.

Unless your budget is genuinely limited to under 100 dollars, the AT-D878UV delivers substantially better value through its transparent specifications, proven 7W output, and multi-mode capability. The price premium reflects real engineering and features you'll actually use.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Enthusiast needing DMR and APRS features

    The AT-D878UV offers superior feature sets including dedicated APRS and GPS.

    AT-D878UV
  • New hams starting on a tight budget

    The Baofeng provides necessary DMR functionality at a significantly lower entry price point.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Portable operator needing advanced modes

    Its higher power output and comprehensive feature list support complex field operations.

    AT-D878UV
  • Casual user exploring digital radio modes

    The Baofeng offers enough basic DMR capability for casual exploration without high cost.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Experienced operator upgrading from basic radio

    The AT-D878UV provides advanced features and reliability expected by seasoned amateurs.

    AT-D878UV

Reasons to choose AnyTone AT-D878UV

  • 33% more memory channels (4,000 vs 3,000)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth
  • IP54 water resistance

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 74% cheaper ($64.99 vs $249.99)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

AnyTone AT-D878UVSpecBaofeng DM-1701
$249.99
Price
$64.99
85
Overall Score
64
+33% for winner
7.00W
TX Power (High)
4000
Memory Channels
3000
+33% for winner
280g
Weight
3100 mAh
Battery
Color TFT
Display
1.77in TFT Color
IP54
IP Rating
On file, scope unconfirmed
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black
color
Black
643451597585
UPC
755745369973
Black
Color
Black
UHF/VHF
Tuner Type
UHF
AT-D878UVII Plus
Model Number
DM 1701
antenna, battery pack, programming cable, belt clip, wrist strap, user manual, and warranty card.
Built-In Media
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Two-way radios operating on VHF (136-174MHz) and UHF (400-480MHz) frequencies with 4FSK digital modulation, and standard two-way radio accessories
Compatible Devices
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Battery Strength Indicator
Additional Features
Dual Band

Made your choice?

AnyTone AT-D878UVPICK

$249.99 on Amazon

Baofeng DM-1701

$64.99 on Amazon

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