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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

Our pick

Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus$179.99

The Baofeng DM-1701 is the clear winner here. Despite both radios lacking GPS and APRS capabilities, the DM-1701 offers substantially better overall value and functionality. The single most important differentiator is DMR support: the DM-1701 includes digital mobile radio capability while the Wouxun lacks it entirely, making the Baofeng far more future-proof for digital operations.

The price difference is equally striking. At $70 versus $180, the DM-1701 costs less than 40 percent of the Wouxun while delivering a nearly double overall score of 63 versus 33. This gap alone suggests the Wouxun is overpriced relative to its capabilities.

The DM-1701 should appeal to budget-conscious operators who want DMR flexibility without breaking the bank. The Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus might only interest users with specific analog-only requirements in regions where its particular features or frequency coverage prove essential, though at this price point it's difficult to recommend.

Unless you have very specific technical requirements only the Wouxun addresses, go with the DM-1701. It delivers better specs, modern digital capability, and substantially superior value at a fraction of the cost.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious first-time licensee

    Costs substantially less than the alternative while still covering both VHF and UHF bands for practice.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Digital voice DMR operators

    Supports DMR digital voice, a mode the alternative does not offer at all.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Airband and broadcast frequency listeners

    Positioned for airband and broadcast monitoring, a use the digital-focused alternative does not target.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Technician operators wanting dependable analog FM

    Built for straightforward analog FM use, favoring dependable everyday communication over digital features.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Users wanting a stronger analog signal

    Specified at 5W transmit power, suited to analog users who want a stronger signal.

    KG-UV9D Plus
  • Operators who enjoy customizing their radio

    Offers firmware flexibility for operators who enjoy customizing their radio.

    DM-1701 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecWouxun KG-UV9D Plus
—
Price
$179.99
49
Overall Score
41
+19% for winner
—
TX Power (High)
5.00W
3000
Memory Channels
999
3.0× difference
—
Weight
250g
1.77in TFT Color
Display
—
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
755745369973
UPC
726312619104
Black
Color
Black
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF
DM 1701
Model Number
KG UV9D Plus
VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz
Frequency Range
136 - 174 MHz, 350 - 400 MHz, 700 - 985 MHz, 76 - 108 MHz
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Compatible Devices
RM
Dual Band
Additional Features
Dual Receiving, Duplex Work on A&B Areas (TX on one area while RX on the other area simultaneously), Output Power VHF H:5W,M:2W,L:1W UHF H:4W,M:2W,L:1W, RX on the same/different bands of A&B areas simultaneously, UHF/VHF or VHF/UHF Cross-Band Repeater
1 Lithium Ion batteries required. (included)
Number of Batteries
1 A batteries required. (included)
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-1701PICK

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Wouxun KG-UV9D Plus

$179.99 on Amazon

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