RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Retevis RA79
Our pick
Retevis RA79$34.99
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.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-constrained buyer wanting a basic first radio
It costs noticeably less, making it the easier choice for someone testing the hobby on a tight budget.
RA79New amateur radio operator learning the basics
Its simpler controls and lower channel count suit a newcomer who wants a gentle learning curve.
RA79Operator entering DMR digital voice modes
It supports DMR digital operation, which the Retevis RA79 does not offer.
Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSField user wanting GPS and APRS position reporting
Built-in GPS and APRS let it share location, a capability the other radio lacks entirely.
Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSHam needing higher transmit power for repeater access
Its 10W transmit output gives it more reach than the lighter, lower-power alternative.
Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSHiker prioritizing a lightweight pack radio
At 225g it is considerably lighter than the 350g alternative, which matters on long carries.
RA79
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
- 125g lighter (225g vs 350g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSPICK
Search on AmazonRetevis RA79
$34.99 on AmazonMore head-to-heads

