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. While it costs twice as much as the UV-5R, you're getting substantially more capability for a modest price increase that won't break a typical amateur radio budget.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The DM-32UV offers DMR digital mode, APRS positioning, and GPS navigation, making it suitable for modern amateur radio activities and emergency communications. The UV-5R is an analog-only radio that lacks these capabilities entirely, though it does support CHIRP programming which the DM-32UV doesn't.
The UV-5R makes sense only for tight budgets or operators who specifically want simplicity and established analog infrastructure. The DM-32UV is ideal for anyone wanting a versatile, future-proof radio with digital capabilities and emergency positioning features.
We recommend the DM-32UV GPS APRS unless you're completely new to amateur radio or have severe budget constraints. At $60, it represents exceptional value and future-proofs your investment better than a $29 radio that lacks digital modes. The extra $31 is money well spent.
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
- 52% cheaper ($28.99 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 | $28.99 |
| Overall Score | 83 | 63 |
| 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 |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces | 0.01 Ounces |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF | UHF,VHF |
| Model Number | DM-32UV | BF-UV5R |
| 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 | 1 X BAOFENG UV-5R Ham Radio, 1 X Baofeng Programming Cable,1 X Walkie Talkie Earpiece, 1 X Long Antenna,1 X Standard Antenna, 1 XBaofeng Desktop Charger,1 X Hand strap, 1 X Belt clip, 2 X Battery,1 X Hand Speaker Mic |
| Mfr Part Number | QYWBDDMSEUV23 | BF-UV5R |
| Compatible Devices | Repeater, Two Way Radio | baofeng radio handheld ham radio |
| Additional Features | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Dual Band, Dust Proof, Emergency Alarm, Keypad Lock, Long Range |
| Warranty Description | 18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support | 30-day hassle-free return |
| Connectivity Protocol | DMR | Two-Way Radio Frequency |