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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Sep 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Baofeng UV-7B

Our pick

Baofeng UV-7B$26.99

The UV-7B is the better choice for most buyers. Both radios offer similar core specifications, but the UV-7B delivers better listed specs for the money, scoring 70 versus the DM-1701's 64. The UV-7B costs $17 less while supporting CHIRP programming, a significant practical advantage that makes frequency management easier. We don't have TX power figures for either radio, and the DM-1701's weight is unlisted, so we can't evaluate those dimensions. The DM-1701's DMR capability is its standout feature, but that's a specialized interest rather than a general advantage.

Owner feedback slightly favors the UV-7B, with 4.4 stars from 98 reviews compared to the DM-1701's 4.1 stars from 76 reviews. This suggests owners report good experiences with the UV-7B across a larger sample size.

The UV-7B is ideal for budget-conscious operators who value CHIRP support and don't need digital modes. Choose the DM-1701 only if DMR capability is essential to your operations and worth the premium. Otherwise, the UV-7B delivers better overall value.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New DMR operators on a tight budget

    It offers DMR capability and more channels for a low entry price.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Absolute beginner or exam radio

    Its extremely low cost makes it perfect for a secondary or loaner unit.

    UV-7B
  • Casual user exploring digital modes

    The dedicated DMR features allow for exploration of modern digital protocols.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Budget-conscious field backup unit

    Its minimal cost makes it ideal for a reliable secondary or backup HT.

    UV-7B
  • Hams needing dual-band versatility

    The DM-1701 is specifically designed to handle dual-band operation.

    DM-1701 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,000)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-7B

  • 58% cheaper ($26.99 vs $64.99)
  • Has Bluetooth
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecBaofeng UV-7B
$64.99
Price
$26.99
64
Overall Score
70
+10% for winner
3000
Memory Channels
1000
3.0× difference
—
Weight
260g
—
Battery
1800 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Blue
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Blue
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
DM 1701
Model Number
UV-7B
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Built-In Media
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x USB Charging Cable, 1 x Adapter, 1 x Headset, 1 x UV-7B Radio, 1 x Wrist Strap, Belt Clip
VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz
Frequency Range
UHF VHF
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Compatible Devices
Repeater, Smartphone
Dual Band
Additional Features
1.77 inches Digital Display, APP Programmable via Bluetooth, Tri-band transmit, USB-C Rechargable, Voice Operated Transmission
2
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-1701

$64.99 on Amazon

Baofeng UV-7BPICK

$26.99 on Amazon

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