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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

APX-8000 vs Baofeng DM32

Our pick

Baofeng DM32$54.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner here. This isn't a close call. For half the price, you get modern digital capabilities, GPS integration, and APRS support, all confirmed working with CHIRP software. The overall score difference tells the story: 82 versus 42 points reflects a radio designed for today's amateur market versus what appears to be an outdated model.

The single most important differentiator is digital mode support. The DM32's DMR capability with APRS and GPS makes it genuinely useful for emergency communications and modern nets. The APX-8000 lacks all three, which severely limits its practical applications in 2024.

The APX-8000 should only interest someone specifically seeking a basic analog-only radio with slightly higher output power and who values that 4 watts of additional TX power over everything else. The DM32 should be the choice for virtually every other amateur radio operator, from beginners to experienced users wanting digital versatility without breaking the bank.

Buy the Baofeng DM32 without hesitation. You'll have a more capable radio at less than half the cost, with modern features and community support through CHIRP compatibility. The APX-8000 appears to have no compelling advantage worth its premium pricing.

Runner-up
APX-8000
APX-8000

$129.99

Winner
Baofeng DM32

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New DMR operator needing high channel count

    The DM32 offers superior channel capacity and built-in digital modes.

    DM32 DMR
  • Technician needing reliable analog VHF/UHF

    The APX-8000 is optimized for basic, high-quality analog repeater coverage.

    APX-8000
  • Ultra-budget beginner focused on basic comms

    The DM32 provides advanced features like DMR and GPS at a much lower cost.

    DM32 DMR
  • Portable operator needing simple, reliable range

    Its focus on analog VHF/UHF and higher power suits long simplex range needs.

    APX-8000
  • Hams needing maximum feature versatility

    The DM32's support for DMR, APRS, and GPS offers unmatched functionality.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose APX-8000

  • 50% more TX power (12W vs 8W)
  • 252% more battery (8800 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 58% cheaper ($54.99 vs $129.99)
  • 31x more memory channels (4,000 vs 128)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

APX-8000SpecBaofeng DM32
$129.99
Price
$54.99
39
Overall Score
83
2.1× difference
12.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
+49% for winner
128
Memory Channels
4000
33.3× difference
Weight
350g
8800 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
3.6× difference
Color LCD
Display
LCD
No grant found
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Green
color
green
Green
Color
green
APX-8000
Model Number
DM-32UV
Two-way radios operating on VHF (136.025-173.975 MHz) and UHF (406.125-469.125 MHz) frequencies, compatible headsets, earpieces, and external antennas
Compatible Devices
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM32PICK

$54.99 on Amazon

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