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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

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

Our pick

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS$59.99

The DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner here. Both radios share identical pricing and transmit power, making this a straightforward comparison, and the DM-32UV pulls ahead with its DMR capability—a feature that significantly expands your operating flexibility on modern digital networks.

The single most important differentiator is DMR support. While both radios offer APRS and GPS, DMR is becoming increasingly prevalent in amateur radio, particularly for emergency communications and digital voice networks. The DM-32UV's inclusion of this mode gives you future-proofing and broader network access that the UV-5RM Pro simply cannot match.

The UV-5RM Pro is worth considering only if you're certain your local repeater networks don't use DMR and you prefer a lighter, more compact radio with a known weight specification. The DM-32UV's unknown weight is a minor documentation issue that shouldn't deter you, given its superior feature set.

Buy the DM-32UV if you want maximum operating modes and future-proofed functionality. Buy the UV-5RM Pro only if weight is a critical factor and you operate exclusively on analog FM networks. For most operators, the DM-32UV's higher overall score of 83 versus 77 reflects the reality that DMR capability justifies the recommendation without hesitation.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Beginners wanting digital modes (DMR)

    The DM-32UV offers DMR support, which is essential for modern digital radio operations.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Budget-conscious outdoor field communication

    The UV-5RM Pro is excellent for simple, reliable communication during camping or scouting.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Advanced operators needing high feature count

    Its superior feature set, including DMR and APRS, makes it a more versatile upgrade.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • New HAM starting out with minimal complexity

    The simpler feature set of the UV-5RM Pro keeps the learning curve manageable for beginners.

    UV-5RM Plus GPS Ham
  • Operators needing reliable public service use

    The inclusion of DMR and advanced features makes it better suited for public service networks.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

  • 6x more memory channels (4,000 vs 640)
  • Has DMR digital mode

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSSpecBaofeng UV-5RM Pro
$59.99
Price
$59.99
83
Overall Score
77
+8% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
4000
Memory Channels
640
6.3× difference
Weight
301g
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
Color LCD
Display
Color LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black & Green
color
Black-2
Black & Green
Color
Black-2
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×BAOFENG 5RM radio, 2×2500mAh lithium-ion battery; 2×original headphones; 2×hand microphone; 2×BF-771 high gain antenna; 2×original antenna; 2×power adapter; 2×belt clip ; 2 × hand strap; 1 × programming cable; 1 × user manual
Repeater, Two Way Radio
Compatible Devices
Hand Microphone, Original Headphones, High Gain Antennas (BF-771), Original Antennas, Other Two-Way Radios using the same frequency bands and channels
Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable
Additional Features
Battery Saver Mode
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

$59.99 on Amazon

Baofeng UV-5RM Pro

$59.99 on Amazon

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