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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

The DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner here. Both radios share identical price and power specs, making this a straightforward comparison: you're choosing between features or simplicity. The DM-32UV offers substantially more capability with DMR digital mode, APRS tracking, and integrated GPS—all absent from the UV-5RM Plus. The 12-point scoring gap reflects this feature advantage, with the DM-32UV earning 83 versus 71.

The single most important differentiator is the presence of DMR, APRS, and GPS on the DM-32UV. These aren't minor additions; they represent entirely different operational possibilities, from digital communications to location sharing.

The UV-5RM Plus suits budget-conscious operators who want basic analog FM functionality with CHIRP programming convenience and don't need advanced features. The DM-32UV appeals to radio enthusiasts and emergency communicators who value digital modes, location awareness, and the flexibility of APRS for tracking.

Buy the DM-32UV GPS APRS. At the same price point, there's no legitimate reason to accept the UV-5RM Plus's feature limitations. The extra capabilities justify the choice for nearly every operator except those exclusively running legacy analog systems.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New license holder wanting simple local repeater use

    Its beginner-friendly controls and CHIRP programming make it easier to set up and learn for a newcomer.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Buyer entering DMR digital operations

    It includes DMR support, which the other radio lacks, so it is the only option here for digital voice.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Budget-conscious operator who only needs analog FM

    It offers the same price and power with a lighter weight and a simpler feature set for basic analog use.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Field or public service team needing APRS tracking

    Built-in GPS and APRS support let teams share position data in the field, which the other radio cannot do.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Emergency preparedness kit with a lightweight radio

    Its lighter build and simpler operation suit a kit that needs to be grabbed and used quickly by anyone.

    UV-5RM Plus
  • Operator wanting maximum features for the money

    It has a higher feature score and a much larger memory capacity at the same price.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
  • 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

  • 60g lighter (290g vs 350g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSSpecBaofeng UV-5RM Plus
79
Overall Score
59
+33% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
4000
Memory Channels
999
4.0× difference
350g
Weight
290g
+20% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
+39% for winner
Color LCD
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black & Green
color
Black
1
unitCount
2
Black & Green
Color
Black 2Pack Full Kit
UHF VHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
UV-5RM
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
2×UV-5RM radio, 1×Programming Cable, 2×Earpieces, 2×Speaker Mic, 2×Tactical antennas, 2×Original antenna, 2×Charging base, 2×USB-C charging cables, 2×2500mAh battery, 2×belt clip, 2×Hand strap, 1×Instruction manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
136-512 MHz
Repeater, Two Way Radio
Compatible Devices
Programming Cable, Speaker Mic, Tactical Antenna, Earphones, Weather Radios
Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable
Additional Features
Copy Frequency, NOAA Weather Receiver, Tactical Antenna, Type C Charging
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSPICK

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Baofeng UV-5RM Plus

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