Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Retevis RA79
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for most users. While it costs twice as much at $60, you're getting substantially more radio for your money with confirmed 10-watt transmission power plus DMR digital mode, APRS positioning, and integrated GPS capabilities. The Retevis RA79 is cheaper but mysteriously lacks even basic specifications like TX power output, making it impossible to assess its actual capabilities.
The single most important differentiator is feature set. The Baofeng delivers modern digital radio functionality with DMR and APRS, while the RA79 appears to be a basic analog-only radio with no special capabilities beyond CHIRP programmability.
The Baofeng suits anyone serious about emergency communications, digital modes, or location tracking where the extra features justify the $30 premium. The Retevis makes sense only for budget-conscious beginners who want absolute lowest cost and don't need advanced features or reliable specifications.
We recommend the Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS. Its 83-point overall score, confirmed specifications, and modern feature set make it the substantially better choice. The RA79's incomplete information and 60-point score suggest it's an entry-level radio best avoided unless you find detailed specifications elsewhere that justify its existence.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
- 20x more memory channels (4,000 vs 200)
- 79% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- Has color TFT display
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis RA79
- 50% cheaper ($29.99 vs $59.99)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
$59.99 on Amazon
★ 4.6 (39 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS | Retevis RA79 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $59.99 | $29.99 |
| Overall Score | 83 | 60 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | — |
| Memory Channels | 4000 | 200 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | 1400 mAh |
| Display | Color LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Not Found |
| Color | Black & Green | Black |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces | 225 Grams |
| Frequency Range | UHF VHF | Dual Band |
| Special Feature | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Emergency Alarm, Frequency copy, Lightweight, Long Range, Weather Alert |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF VHF | [POSSIBLY] Digital |
| Model Number | DM-32UV | RA79 |
| 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 USB Desktop Charger, 1x RA79 Radio Body & Antenna, Battery, Belt Clip, User Manual |
| Compatible Devices | Repeater, Two Way Radio | [Wide range of CHIRP-compatible devices] |
| Additional Features | Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable | Emergency Alarm, Frequency copy, Lightweight, Long Range, Weather Alert |
| Warranty Description | 18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support | We provide 2 year warranty and 30 days no reason to return;2 year warranty for radio body and 1 year warranty for accessories. Beyond the warranty period: We still offer maintain service, buyers are required to afford corresponding costs. We processed in the most hassle-free way possible.You just need to contact with us on Amazon ,we will reply you within 12 hours |
| Connectivity Protocol | DMR | DMR, D-STAR |