RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng DM-1701 vs Yaesu VX-6R
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.
By use case
Which should you buy?
SOTA and field activation operator
Its 270g weight and 5W power make it a practical pick for summit and field activations.
VX-6ROperator wanting dual-band versatility on a budget
Both radios cover VHF and UHF, but the DM-1701 costs less while offering 3000 channels.
DM-1701 DMRHobbyist wanting firmware and programming flexibility
The DM-1701 suits operators who want to experiment with firmware and open programming options.
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 Yaesu VX-6R
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng DM-1701
Search on AmazonYaesu VX-6RPICK
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