Skip to main content

RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Radtel RT-880G

Our pick

Radtel RT-880G$97.50

The Radtel RT-880G is the stronger choice for most users. It costs $40 more but delivers substantially better feature coverage and owner satisfaction.

The most important differentiator is feature set. The RT-880G includes APRS, GPS, and CHIRP support, making it far more versatile for modern amateur radio pursuits. The DM-1701 focuses on DMR but lacks positioning and computer programming capability. We don't have the DM-1701's transmit power or weight, so we cannot directly compare those specs. The RT-880G's 10W output is clearly specified and useful for portable operation.

The DM-1701 suits users who operate exclusively on DMR networks and need the absolute lowest entry price. The RT-880G serves operators who want flexibility across multiple modes, especially those needing location reporting or computer-based frequency management.

Buy the RT-880G unless you're committed to DMR-only operation on a tight budget. It has better owner feedback (4.4 stars from 152 reviews versus 4.1 from 76), more specified capabilities, and CHIRP programming, which most operators find essential. The $40 premium reflects genuine additional functionality, not just price.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee wanting digital voice

    Its DMR support and lower cost make it a practical entry point for digital modes.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Budget-constrained buyer on a tight budget

    It costs less than the alternative while still covering both VHF and UHF bands.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • ARES member needing position reporting

    GPS and APRS support let it send position reports that the other radio lacks.

    RT-880G
  • SOTA activator needing extra transmit reach

    Its 10W transmit power and GPS suit summit activations where extra reach matters.

    RT-880G
  • Tinkerer wanting firmware flexibility

    Firmware flexibility and dual-band DMR make it appealing to experimenters who want options.

    DM-1701 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

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

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-880G

  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecRadtel RT-880G
—
Price
$97.50
49
Overall Score
75
+54% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
10.00W
3000
Memory Channels
1024
2.9× difference
—
Weight
341g
—
Battery
2400 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Standard
UHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
DM 1701
Model Number
RT-880G
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Built-In Media
1x RT-880G Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x English User Manual
VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz
Frequency Range
144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Compatible Devices
Radtel two-way radios, devices on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies, compatible external antennas
Dual Band
Additional Features
GPS/APRS, AM FM SSB Reception, 1024 Channels,Cross Band Repeater
2
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-1701

Search on Amazon

Radtel RT-880GPICK

$97.50 on Amazon

More head-to-heads

Related Comparisons