Baofeng DM-1701 vs Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng UV-5RM Plus is the clear winner for most users, scoring 9 points higher overall despite its lower price. The single most important differentiator is CHIRP compatibility, which the UV-5RM Plus offers and the DM-1701 lacks. CHIRP programming saves countless hours and eliminates the frustration of manual frequency entry, making it invaluable for any serious operator managing multiple frequencies.
The DM-1701 targets niche users who specifically need DMR digital mode capabilities and are willing to accept its proprietary programming software. The UV-5RM Plus suits everyone else: budget-conscious operators, beginners, and experienced hams who value simplicity and programming flexibility.
The UV-5RM Plus delivers better value at a lower price point with superior overall scoring and the critical advantage of CHIRP support. Unless you have a specific operational requirement for DMR networks in your area, the UV-5RM Plus is the more practical choice. Its combination of affordability, proven reliability, and standard programming tools makes it the recommended handheld for most amateur radio enthusiasts.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701
- 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus
- 15% cheaper ($59.99 vs $70.33)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
$70.33 on Amazon
★ 4.1 (75 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM-1701 | Baofeng UV-5RM Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $70.33 | $59.99 |
| Overall Score | 64 | 71 |
| TX Power (High) | — | 10.00W |
| Memory Channels | 3000 | 999 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | — | 1800 mAh |
| Display | 1.77in TFT Color | Color LCD |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black | Black 2Pack Full Kit |
| Frequency Range | VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz | 136-512 MHz |
| Special Feature | Dual Band | Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging |
| Compatible Devices | Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios | Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios |
| Included Components | Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset | 2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF | UHF VHF |
| Model Number | DM 1701 | UV-5RM |
| Built-In Media | Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset | 2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual |
| Additional Features | Dual Band | Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging |
| Warranty Description | 2 | 1 Year |