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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng DM-1701 vs Yaesu VX-6R

Our pick

Baofeng DM-1701$61.74

The Baofeng DM-1701 is the clear winner here despite significant missing specifications. It commands a decisive advantage with its substantially lower price at $70 versus $330, paired with a notably higher overall score of 46 versus 37. The DM-1701's inclusion of DMR capability adds modern digital functionality that the VX-6R lacks entirely.

The single most important differentiator is price. At nearly five times the cost, the Yaesu fails to justify its premium through superior performance metrics or features in this comparison. The VX-6R's only concrete advantage is its specified 5W transmit power, but without knowing the DM-1701's power output, we cannot properly weigh this benefit.

The DM-1701 suits budget-conscious operators seeking digital mode capability with a modern, versatile radio. The VX-6R appeals only to users with strong brand loyalty to Yaesu or specific legacy system requirements not evident from these specs.

The DM-1701 is the recommended choice. You get better overall performance, digital mode support, and dramatically lower cost. The missing technical specifications for the Baofeng suggest you should verify transmit power and weight before purchase, but the value proposition is overwhelming.

Runner-up
Yaesu VX-6R

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious beginner exploring digital modes

    The Baofeng offers extensive DMR functionality and high channel count for minimal cost.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Experienced operator needing rugged field durability

    The Yaesu is built for extreme outdoor use, prioritizing durability over advanced features.

    VX-6R
  • Ham focusing on emergency and field activations

    Its robust analog design is ideal for reliable communication in non-digital emergency scenarios.

    VX-6R
  • New operator wanting maximum feature density and versatility

    The Baofeng provides a vast array of digital modes and high channel capacity affordably.

    DM-1701 DMR
  • Operator needing reliable, simple analog repeater access

    The Yaesu's dedicated analog VHF/UHF focus ensures stable performance on traditional repeaters.

    VX-6R

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-1701

  • 81% cheaper ($61.74 vs $325.00)
  • 3x more memory channels (3,000 vs 999)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has color TFT display

Reasons to choose Yaesu VX-6R

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-1701SpecYaesu VX-6R
$61.74
Price
$325.00
64
Overall Score
38
+69% for winner
TX Power (High)
5.00W
3000
Memory Channels
999
3.0× difference
Battery
1400 mAh
1.77in TFT Color
Display
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
On file, scope unconfirmed
Black
color
Black
755745369973
UPC
788026098125
Black
Color
Black
UHF
Tuner Type
UHF
DM 1701
Model Number
VX-6R
VHF: 136-174MHz; UHF:400-480MHz
Frequency Range
0.5-999 MHz
Digital and analog radios, MOTOTRBO Tier I & II, other DMR radios
Compatible Devices
[YAESU]
Dual Band
Additional Features
Waterproof
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Waterproof

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-1701PICK

$61.74 on Amazon

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