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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Baofeng UV-26

The DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for most users.

The single most important differentiator is features. The DM-32UV includes DMR, APRS, and GPS capability, while the UV-26 offers none of these digital modes or positioning features. Both radios produce the same 10W output, so the practical difference comes down to what modes you need to access.

The DM-32UV also supports CHIRP programming, making frequency management easier. Owners report satisfaction with the DM-32UV at 4.6 out of 5 stars across 39 reviews, while the UV-26 sees 4.4 out of 5 from 94 reviews. We lack pricing and weight data for the UV-26, so direct value comparison is incomplete, but the DM-32UV's $60 price point is notably affordable given its feature set.

Buy the DM-32UV if you want digital mode capability, APRS tracking, or GPS integration. Buy the UV-26 only if you need a basic FM-only radio and can confirm its price undercuts the DM-32UV significantly.

The DM-32UV represents better value for amateur radio operators seeking modern digital functionality at an entry-level price.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New licensed amateur radio operator

    Simpler menus and a lower cost make it easier for a new licensee to learn local repeaters.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Budget-conscious emergency preparedness buyer

    Costs less and covers VHF, UHF, and 1.25m, suiting a basic emergency kit.

    Baofeng UV-26
  • Newcomer to DMR digital operating

    Built-in DMR, APRS, and GPS give newcomers to digital ops a full feature set.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Field and public service team member

    Its 4000-channel memory and APRS position reporting suit field and public service teams.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Collector adding a second handheld with digital modes

    Its feature set adds digital modes and tracking that a second radio otherwise lacks.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

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 CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-26

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSSpecBaofeng UV-26
79
Overall Score
49
+61% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
4000
Memory Channels
999
4.0× difference
350g
Weight
—
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
Color LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black & Green
color
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
1
unitCount
2
Black & Green
Color
UV26-10Watt-1Pack
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
VHF/1.25M/UHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
UV26
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
Built-In Media
①1X UV26 Ham Radio, ②1X 6.1" antenna, ③1X 15.12" 771 antenna, ④1X 10.63" 771 Air-band antenna, ⑤1X 2500mAh Battery, ⑥1X Type-C charger with cable, ⑦1X earpiece with mic, ⑧1X belt, ⑨1X hand strap, ⑩1X charging base station, 10WHTC, 2500mAh Battery, 10WHTC Charger, USB Cable
QYWBDDMSEUV23
Mfr Part Number
UV26
Repeater, Two Way Radio
Compatible Devices
BAOFENG UV26 Ham Radios, other devices on the same frequency bands and channels, CHIRP, CPS, TIDRADIO wireless programmer, earpiece, belt, hand strap, charging base station
Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable
Additional Features
771 Antenna, Air-band antenna, Superior grip, Enhanced design, Wider frequency band, 10W power, USB C charging, 1.77inch colour screen, Frequency copy
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSPICK

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Baofeng UV-26

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