RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng DM-1701 vs Baofeng UV-28
The UV-28 is the stronger choice for most buyers. Both radios share the same price point and owner rating, but the UV-28 delivers better listed specifications and a higher overall score. The UV-28 publishes 10W transmit power while the DM-1701's power is unknown. The UV-28 includes GPS and CHIRP programmability; the DM-1701 offers DMR but lacks both features. The UV-28 also provides a stated weight of 360g for transparency. We lack specifications on the DM-1701's transmit power and weight, which limits direct comparison on those dimensions.
The most important differentiator is feature set. If you need DMR digital mode, the DM-1701 is your only choice here. If you want GPS capability or prefer CHIRP software for programming, the UV-28 wins decisively.
Buy the DM-1701 if DMR support is essential to your intended use. Buy the UV-28 if you want GPS, CHIRP compatibility, and clearly specified power output at the same price.
Go with the UV-28 as the safer recommendation given its better specification transparency and higher overall score, unless DMR is a hard requirement.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious first-time licensee
Costs less and offers a more beginner-friendly setup for a first handheld.
UV-28Operator focused on digital voice
Includes DMR support, which the other radio lacks, for digital voice operating.
DM-1701 DMRSummits on the Air portable activator
GPS and Bluetooth plus 10W output suit field activations and coordination.
UV-28Emergency communications volunteer
Higher 10W transmit power and GPS make it practical for ARES deployments.
UV-28Operator wanting firmware customization
Offers firmware flexibility that suits operators who like tinkering beyond stock behavior.
DM-1701 DMR
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,000)
- Has DMR digital mode
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-28
- Has built-in GPS
- Has Bluetooth
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng DM-1701
Search on AmazonBaofeng UV-28PICK
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