Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Baofeng UV-5R
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for most users, despite its $22 premium over the UV-5R. The single most important differentiator is feature set versus price: the DM-32UV delivers DMR digital mode support, APRS positioning, and integrated GPS—capabilities the UV-5R completely lacks. These aren't minor additions; they fundamentally expand what you can do with the radio.
The UV-5R makes sense only for budget-conscious beginners who need basic VHF/UHF analog coverage and appreciate CHIRP programming support. Its lower power output and lack of digital modes are significant limitations that become apparent once you grow beyond casual use.
The DM-32UV should appeal to anyone planning serious emergency preparedness, ARES/RACES involvement, or experimentation with digital modes. The higher transmit power and integrated GPS add practical value for mobile and field operations.
Our recommendation: buy the DM-32UV GPS APRS. The extra $22 investment pays for itself in capabilities, and the superior overall score reflects meaningful performance advantages. Only choose the UV-5R if your budget is truly constrained and you're certain you'll never need digital modes or positioning features.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
- 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
- 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 UV-5R
- 40% cheaper ($35.97 vs $59.99)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
$59.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (39 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS | Baofeng UV-5R |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $35.97 |
| Overall Score | 83 | 65 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | 5.00W |
| Memory Channels | 4000 | 999 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | — |
| Display | Color LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black & Green | gray |
| Frequency Range | UHF VHF | VHF UHF |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver |
| 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 | 2 X 9CM Antenna& 21CM Gooseneck Antenna, 2 X Earpiece & 2 X Clip, 2 X Radio, 2X Type-c Cable, Battery |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF | VHF UHF |
| Model Number | DM-32UV | UV-5R MINI |
| 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 | 2 X 9CM Antenna& 21CM Gooseneck Antenna, 2 X Earpiece & 2 X Clip, 2 X Radio, 2X Type-c Cable, Battery |
| Mfr Part Number | QYWBDDMSEUV23 | FBA- 1-UV-5Rmini-Gray-771 |
| Compatible Devices | Repeater, Two Way Radio | Mobile devices (for programming), Headsets, Earpieces, NOAA weather alerts, Various antennas |
| Additional Features | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Copy Frequency, Long Range, Noaa Weather Receiver |
| Warranty Description | 18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support | NO |
| Connectivity Protocol | DMR | Type-c |