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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Radtel RT-950 PRO

Our pick

Radtel RT-950 PRO$96.00

The Radtel RT-950 PRO is the clear winner for most users. Despite costing nine dollars more, it delivers superior overall performance with a significantly higher score of 75 versus 63, plus it includes GPS and APRS capabilities that the Baofeng lacks entirely.

The single most important differentiator is feature set versus protocol support. The RT-950 PRO offers GPS tracking and APRS packet radio functionality, making it substantially more versatile for outdoor and emergency applications. The Baofeng DM-1701 focuses exclusively on DMR digital mode, which is useful only if you're already invested in DMR networks.

The Baofeng DM-1701 suits budget-conscious operators already committed to DMR ecosystems who need nothing else. The Radtel RT-950 PRO is ideal for general-purpose amateur radio operators who value navigation, location sharing, and broader digital mode support.

We recommend the Radtel RT-950 PRO for nearly all buyers. The modest price difference is justified by its superior score, more useful feature combination, and greater long-term versatility. Only purchase the Baofeng if you're specifically building a DMR-only station and absolutely cannot spend the extra nine dollars.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest upfront cost

    Costs less than the alternative and earns a higher value rating for buyers watching their spending.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • New DMR digital voice operator

    Offers DMR digital modes and 3000 channels, which the other radio does not list.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • APRS and GPS tracking enthusiast

    Includes APRS, GPS, and Bluetooth, which the Baofeng DM-1701 does not offer.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Emergency kit or prepper backup radio

    Provides 4W transmit power and APRS position reporting for emergency use.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • First-time licensee wanting a gentler setup

    Earns a higher beginner-friendliness rating, making it the easier starting point for new operators.

    Radtel RT-950 PRO
  • Hobbyist wanting firmware tinkering freedom

    Suits operators who want deeper firmware flexibility and dual-band versatility on a budget.

    DM-1701 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 960)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-950 PRO

  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecRadtel RT-950 PRO
—
Price
$96.00
49
Overall Score
76
+56% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
4.00W
3000
Memory Channels
960
3.1× difference
—
Battery
2200 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
Black
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black
Color
Black
UHF
Tuner Type
AM/FM/SSB
DM 1701
Model Number
RT-950 PRO
Factory configuration, Programming line, USB cable, headset
Built-In Media
1x RT-950 PRO Main unit, 1x 2200mAh 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
Smartphones, Desktops
Dual Band
Additional Features
27MHz TX/RX at FM Modulation with power 3-4W,Shortwave ML/LW/SW/USB/LSB/CW Reception, Bluetooth App Programming,High Output Power,GPS/APRS Position Sending, Channel Zone Function,Full-Color Display,PC Programming, Integrated Spectrum Analyzer,Wireless Frequency Copy,NOAA Weather Channel Support
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-950 PROPICK

$96.00 on Amazon

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