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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Radioddity GD-168$139.99

The Radioddity GD-168 wins for buyers who want more features and can spend the extra money. The single most important differentiator is that the GD-168 adds APRS capability alongside DMR, while the DM-1701 is DMR-only. The GD-168 also specifies 5W transmit power, whereas the DM-1701's power output is unknown to us. Both radios lack GPS and CHIRP support, and both are rated favorably by owners, though the GD-168 has fewer reviews to draw from.

The DM-1701 suits budget-conscious operators who need basic DMR capability and don't mind missing APRS. The GD-168 is for those wanting dual-mode operation and the confidence of a published power specification, if the 3x price increase makes sense for their use case.

The real question is whether APRS justifies the $86 premium. If you'll use it, the GD-168 is worth buying. If you won't, save your money on the Baofeng. Both show solid owner satisfaction, so either will likely serve you well for casual operation.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New DMR operator on a tight budget

    It offers DMR capability and high channel count for a significantly lower price.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Technician class needing reliable analog VHF/UHF

    Its dedicated analog focus and higher channel memory provide reliable field use.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Casual user exploring digital modes and flexibility

    The DM-1701 is designed for new operators wanting to explore digital modes.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Operator needing high channel capacity for multiple modes

    The GD-168 boasts a higher channel memory capacity of 4000 channels.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Advanced ham needing guaranteed flawless operation

    Its analog focus suggests a more stable, reliable operation for serious field work.

    Radioddity GD-168

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 59% cheaper ($57.94 vs $139.99)

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 33% more memory channels (4,000 vs 3,000)
  • Has APRS support

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecRadioddity GD-168
$57.94
Price
$139.99
64
Overall Score
72
+12% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
3000
Memory Channels
4000
+33% for winner
—
Weight
220g
—
Battery
1800 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
1.77in TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
DM 1701
Model Number
GD-168
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Built-In Media
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x 2600mAh Battery, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Adaptor, 1 x Desktop Charger Base, 1 x Type-C Cable (for programming & charging), 1 x GD-168 DMR Radio, 1 x Standard ANT, 1 x 15’’ Long ANT
VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz
Frequency Range
UHF, VHF
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Compatible Devices
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Dual Band
Additional Features
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
2
Warranty Description
18 month warranty
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-1701

$57.94 on Amazon

Radioddity GD-168PICK

$139.99 on Amazon

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