Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Baofeng UV-5R Plus
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for serious amateur radio enthusiasts, delivering significantly more capability for just $23 more. The single most important differentiator is the feature set: the DM-32UV includes DMR digital mode, APRS positioning, and GPS navigation, while the UV-5R Plus is a basic analog-only radio. This makes them fundamentally different tools rather than direct competitors.
The UV-5R Plus is ideal for budget-conscious beginners who want simple analog FM operation and CHIRP programmability without breaking the bank. The DM-32UV GPS APRS suits operators who need modern digital capabilities, position tracking, or plan to grow into more advanced amateur radio activities.
The DM-32UV's higher overall score of 83 versus 64 reflects its technical superiority, though unknown power output specs for the UV-5R Plus create some ambiguity. If you're serious about amateur radio, the DM-32UV offers substantially better long-term value despite the higher price. If you're just testing the hobby, the UV-5R Plus remains a reasonable entry point, but expect to upgrade quickly as your interests develop.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
- 31x more memory channels (4,000 vs 128)
- 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Plus
- 37% cheaper ($37.58 vs $59.99)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
$59.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (39 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS | Baofeng UV-5R Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $37.58 |
| Overall Score | 83 | 64 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | — |
| Memory Channels | 4000 | 128 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Black & Green | Black-2Pack-AR-771 |
| Frequency Range | UHF VHF | VHF UHF |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Long Range, 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 | 2X1800mAh battery, 2XBelt&Sling, 2xAR-771, 2xRadio, Earpiece |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF | VHF UHF |
| Model Number | DM-32UV | UV-5R |
| 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 | 2X1800mAh battery, 2XBelt&Sling, 2xAR-771, 2xRadio, Earpiece |
| Mfr Part Number | QYWBDDMSEUV23 | FR1024-677 |
| Compatible Devices | Repeater, Two Way Radio | Two-way radios supporting UHF VHF frequencies |
| Additional Features | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band, Emergency Alarm, Long Range, Rechargable |
| Warranty Description | 18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support | no |
| Connectivity Protocol | DMR | Radio Frequency |