Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs Retevis RA89

The Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for most users. It delivers significantly more capability for only six dollars more, making the price difference negligible when weighed against the features.

The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The Baofeng includes DMR digital mode, APRS positioning, and GPS—all absent from the Retevis. These aren't luxury additions; they're fundamental tools that expand what you can accomplish on the radio. The Baofeng's higher overall score of 83 versus 58 reflects this substantial gap in capability.

The Retevis RA89 makes sense only for operators who specifically need CHIRP software compatibility and are willing to sacrifice modern digital capabilities. The Baofeng DM-32UV is the better choice for anyone wanting a capable handheld that covers both analog and digital modes with position tracking features.

Buy the Baofeng DM-32UV if you want modern features and versatility at a competitive price. Buy the Retevis RA89 only if CHIRP compatibility is a hard requirement that outweighs its limited feature set.

Recommendation: Choose the Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS unless you have a specific reason to prioritize CHIRP compatibility.