Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Baofeng K5 Plus
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for anyone who can justify the investment. The single most important differentiator is feature set: the DM-32UV delivers DMR digital capability, APRS positioning, and integrated GPS tracking, making it genuinely useful for emergency response, amateur radio nets, and location sharing. The K5 Plus is essentially a basic analog FM transceiver with no advanced functionality.
The K5 Plus makes sense only as a disposable backup radio or for someone making their first $25 gamble on whether they'll actually use ham radio. Its unknown transmit power is a red flag that suggests specifications may be unreliable or deliberately obscured.
The DM-32UV suits anyone serious about digital modes, emergency preparedness, or outdoor activities where APRS tracking adds real value. At $60, it represents genuine capability for the price.
Buy the DM-32UV. The $35 difference isn't just extra cost—it's the difference between a radio with modern features and one that's essentially obsolete. The DM-32UV's 83/100 score versus the K5 Plus's 57/100 reflects this gap accurately.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Baofeng K5 Plus
- 57% cheaper ($25.56 vs $59.99)
$59.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (39 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS | Baofeng K5 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $25.56 |
| Overall Score | 83 | 57 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | — |
| Memory Channels | 4000 | 999 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | — |
| Display | Color LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black & Green | Black |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Rechargable |
| Included Components | 2500mAh Battery x 1, Standard ANT x 1, BAOFENG DMR Radio x 1, Desktop Charger Base x 1, USB-C Charger x 1, Headset x 1, Radio Case Holder x 1 | User Manual |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF | UHF |
| Model Number | DM-32UV | K5 Plus |
| Built-In Media | 2500mAh Battery x 1, Standard ANT x 1, BAOFENG DMR Radio x 1, Desktop Charger Base x 1, USB-C Charger x 1, Headset x 1, Radio Case Holder x 1 | User Manual |
| Compatible Devices | Repeater, Two Way Radio | [Frequency-based compatibility]: 136-174 MHz (VHF) and 400-480 MHz (UHF) |
| Additional Features | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Rechargable |
| Warranty Description | 18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support | no |
| Connectivity Protocol | DMR | Analog FM |