Baofeng DM-1701 vs Baofeng K5 Plus

The Baofeng DM-1701 is the clear winner for anyone serious about amateur radio. While it costs nearly three times more than the K5 Plus, you're getting genuine DMR capability, which opens access to digital repeaters and networks that analog-only radios cannot reach. This is the single most important differentiator between these two units.

The K5 Plus is essentially a budget analog FM transceiver with no standout features. It serves as a bare-minimum entry point for casual listeners or those on an extremely tight budget, but it offers little growth potential. The DM-1701's higher overall score of 63 versus 57 reflects its superior functionality despite the price gap.

The K5 Plus makes sense only for someone who wants to experiment with radio at minimal cost before committing to the hobby. The DM-1701 is the choice for anyone planning to participate in modern digital networks or seeking a radio with longevity and flexibility.

We recommend the DM-1701 unless your budget is genuinely under thirty dollars. At seventy dollars, you're making a worthwhile investment in equipment that won't limit your options as your interest in amateur radio develops.