RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng DM-1701 vs Baofeng UV-26
The DM-1701 edges out the UV-26 primarily because of what owners report: 76 reviewers rate it 4.1 out of 5, compared to 94 reviewers rating the UV-26 at 4.4 out of 5. While the UV-26 has a higher owner rating, the DM-1701's advantage is its DMR capability, which the UV-26 lacks entirely. The UV-26 offers known 10-watt TX power, whereas the DM-1701's transmit power is unspecified. Both radios share missing data on weight and lack listed IP ratings. Price information is missing for the UV-26, making a true cost comparison impossible. If you prioritize DMR digital mode support, the DM-1701 is your choice; if you need confirmed analog-only operation with higher owner satisfaction and known power output, the UV-26 suits you better. The missing price for the UV-26 and unknown TX power for the DM-1701 create real gaps in this comparison. Given the complete specifications and owner feedback available, the DM-1701 offers more capability, though the UV-26's higher owner rating reflects positive real-world experience that shouldn't be dismissed.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget buyer entering digital voice modes
Lowest cost option that adds DMR access for a first digital radio.
DM-1701 DMRFirst-time licensee learning local repeaters
Ranks higher for beginner usability and covers the local VHF and UHF repeater bands newcomers use.
Baofeng UV-26Emergency preparedness kit builder
Ten-watt output and 1.25m coverage suit emergency preparedness kits needing wider local reach.
Baofeng UV-26DMR experimenter needing large channel memory
Adds DMR support and a much larger channel memory for operators exploring digital voice.
DM-1701 DMRPortable POTA and SOTA field operator
A higher portability rating suits field operators on summit or park activations needing 1.25m reach.
Baofeng UV-26Firmware tinkerer who customizes hardware
Supports firmware flexibility that suits operators who like customizing their hardware.
DM-1701 DMR
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26
- No clear advantages in this comparison
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng DM-1701
Search on AmazonBaofeng UV-26
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