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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Radtel RT-4D DMR

Our pick

Radtel RT-4D DMR$52.33

The Radtel RT-4D DMR is the clear winner here. It delivers significantly better overall performance at a lower price point, which is uncommon enough to deserve your attention.

The single most important differentiator is the overall score gap. The RT-4D's 71/100 versus the DM-1701's 46/100 isn't marginal—it's substantial. The RT-4D also includes GPS functionality, a feature entirely absent from the Baofeng, while both support DMR. The RT-4D costs $20 less despite being the superior radio. The unknown TX power specification on the Baofeng is another red flag suggesting incomplete product documentation.

The DM-1701 might appeal to users who specifically need the Baofeng ecosystem for compatibility reasons or have existing infrastructure, but that's a weak case given the performance gap. The RT-4D is the logical choice for anyone buying a new handheld DMR radio without specific brand loyalty.

Buy the Radtel RT-4D unless you have a particular reason to standardize on Baofeng equipment. It's the better radio at the better price, which makes this decision straightforward.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time DMR licensee

    Costs less and offers 3000 channels for learning DMR without spending extra.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Operators coordinating secure fleet communications

    Built-in GPS, Bluetooth, and 5W output suit coordinated group operations better.

    RT-4D DMR
  • Portable POTA activator carrying gear on foot

    At 198g with 5W output, it suits portable activations where weight matters.

    RT-4D DMR
  • Hobbyist experimenting with firmware and modes

    Firmware flexibility and a lower price make it the better pick for experimenters.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Emergency preparedness group with coordination needs

    GPS and Bluetooth add location and data features useful during coordinated emergency response.

    RT-4D DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 1,024)
  • Has color TFT display
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-4D DMR

  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecRadtel RT-4D DMR
—
Price
$52.33
49
Overall Score
78
+59% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
3000
Memory Channels
1024
2.9× difference
—
Weight
198g
—
Battery
3500 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
DM 1701
Model Number
RT-4D
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Built-In Media
1x Rt-4d Radio, 1x 3500mAh Li-ion battery, 1x Desktop charger, 1x USB-C cable, 1x Dual band antenna, 1x belt clip, 1x Eng user manual
VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz
Frequency Range
144-148/420-450MHz
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on 144-148/420-450MHz frequency bands, compatible headsets, and external antennas
Dual Band
Additional Features
Dual Band Analog/Digital , Type C charger, DMR/Analog,, Single Call/Group Call, NOAA, Two-Time Slot,Spectrum, FM Radio
2
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-1701

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Radtel RT-4D DMRPICK

$52.33 on Amazon

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