Baofeng AR-5RM vs Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for most users. This radio delivers substantially more capability for only $34 more, justifying its higher price with DMR digital mode support, built-in GPS and APRS functionality, and a significantly higher overall score of 83 versus 65.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The DM-32UV offers DMR digital communications, GPS positioning, and APRS packet radio capabilities that the AR-5RM completely lacks. These aren't minor additions; they represent entirely different operational possibilities for emergency communications, off-grid navigation, and digital network participation.
The AR-5RM makes sense only for absolute budget-conscious beginners who need the cheapest possible entry point to amateur radio and plan to upgrade quickly. The DM-32UV should be purchased by anyone willing to spend slightly more for a radio that grows with their skills and supports modern digital modes.
For virtually anyone serious about handheld radio work, the DM-32UV offers superior value despite the cost difference. Its comprehensive feature set and higher performance rating make it the practical choice unless budget is your absolute only constraint.
Reasons to choose Baofeng AR-5RM
- 57% cheaper ($25.99 vs $59.99)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
$59.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (39 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng AR-5RM | Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $25.99 | $59.99 |
| Overall Score | 65 | 83 |
| TX Power (High) | — | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 999 | 4000 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | — | 2500 mAh |
| Display | — | Color LCD |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black & Green |
| Frequency Range | VHF UHF | UHF VHF |
| Special Feature | Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable |
| Compatible Devices | AM,FM Receiver | Repeater, Two Way Radio |
| Included Components | 1 X Earpiece & 1 X Clip, 1 X Radio, 1X Type-c Cable & 1 X Base Charger, Antenna, Battery | 2500mAh Battery x 1, Standard ANT x 1, BAOFENG DMR Radio x 1, Desktop Charger Base x 1, USB-C Charger x 1, Headset x 1, Radio Case Holder x 1 |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | VHF UHF | UHF VHF |
| Model Number | AR-5RM | DM-32UV |
| Built-In Media | 1 X Earpiece & 1 X Clip, 1 X Radio, 1X Type-c Cable & 1 X Base Charger, Antenna, Battery | 2500mAh Battery x 1, Standard ANT x 1, BAOFENG DMR Radio x 1, Desktop Charger Base x 1, USB-C Charger x 1, Headset x 1, Radio Case Holder x 1 |
| Additional Features | Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable |
| Warranty Description | NO | 18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support |
| Connectivity Protocol | Type-c | DMR |