Baofeng DM-1701 vs Radtel RT-860

The Baofeng DM-1701 is the clear winner here. While nearly twice the price at $70, you're getting significantly better overall performance reflected in its 63/100 score versus the RT-860's 48/100. The single most important differentiator is DMR capability. The DM-1701 supports Digital Mobile Radio, opening access to modern digital repeaters and networks that the RT-860 simply cannot reach. This is a fundamental feature gap that affects long-term usability rather than just a minor specification difference.

Buy the DM-1701 if you want a future-proof handheld that can access both analog and digital repeaters, or if you're already in a DMR-equipped area. Buy the RT-860 only if you're on an extremely tight budget and operate exclusively on analog frequencies in areas with no DMR infrastructure.

For most amateur radio operators, the DM-1701 represents better value despite its higher cost. The $33 price difference is justified by superior capabilities and a significantly higher overall score. If budget is the absolute constraint, the RT-860 works as a bare-minimum backup radio, but the DM-1701 should be your primary choice.