Baofeng DM-1701 vs Baofeng UV-7B

The UV-7B is the clear winner for most buyers.

Both radios score identically at 64/100, but the UV-7B costs $25 versus $58 for the DM-1701, a decisive $33 price difference on entry-level equipment. The single most important differentiator is price: you get a working handheld for under $30 with the UV-7B.

The DM-1701 offers DMR capability, which the UV-7B lacks, but we lack TX power data for both radios, so we cannot compare actual performance specifications. The UV-7B includes Bluetooth while the DM-1701 does not, though neither radio lists full technical specs. Owner ratings slightly favor the UV-7B at 4.4/5 from 98 reviews versus 4.1/5 from 76 reviews. This represents what buyers actually report, though the difference is modest.

The UV-7B should go to someone wanting an affordable entry point into handheld radio without digital mode requirements. The DM-1701 appeals only to operators specifically needing DMR and willing to pay the premium for it.

Buy the UV-7B unless you specifically need DMR capability.