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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS vs TYT TH-UV88

The Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS is the clear winner for most amateur radio operators. It delivers substantially more capability at a reasonable price premium, with nearly double the transmit power, DMR digital mode support, APRS positioning, and integrated GPS—all reflected in its significantly higher overall score of 83 versus 54.

The single most important differentiator is feature set versus price. The Baofeng offers triple the functionality for just $20 more, making it exceptional value. The DM-32UV's 10-watt output also provides superior range and penetration compared to the TYT's 5-watt limitation, critical for field work and emergency communication.

The Baofeng suits anyone wanting modern digital capabilities, location tracking, or serious portable communication. The TYT works only for budget-conscious operators who need basic analog FM and appreciate CHIRP compatibility for programming.

We recommend the Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS for the vast majority of buyers. You're not just getting more features; you're getting a radio that will grow with your skills and interests in amateur radio. The TYT is genuinely outmatched here, offering neither compelling price advantage nor any standout strengths to justify choosing it over the superior Baofeng.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • First-time licensee learning digital voice modes

    DMR and APRS support give a newcomer room to grow into digital operating without buying another radio.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Budget-conscious buyer wanting a simple spare radio

    It costs less and covers local VHF and UHF repeaters, making it a sensible backup or loaner.

    TH-UV88
  • Public service or field operator needing position reporting

    GPS and APRS position reporting suit field work, and the 10W output reaches farther than the 5W alternative.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS
  • Casual listener monitoring nearby repeaters

    A 5W radio with a simpler feature set is adequate for monitoring nearby repeaters without paying for extras.

    TH-UV88
  • Operator managing large numbers of frequencies

    A 4000-channel memory holds far more frequencies than the 200-channel alternative for busy scanning and programming.

    Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRS

  • 100% more TX power (10W vs 5W)
  • 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

Reasons to choose TYT TH-UV88

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSSpecTYT TH-UV88
79
Overall Score
44
+79% for winner
10.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
2.0× difference
4000
Memory Channels
200
20.0× difference
350g
Weight
—
2500 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+79% for winner
Color LCD
Display
LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
Black & Green
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
Black & Green
Color
Black
DM-32UV
Model Number
TH-UV88
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
1 x TH-UV88 Handheld Radio, 1 x Original Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x High Gain Antenna (SMA-Male), 1 x Acoustic Tube Headset, 1 x 1400mAh Li-ion Battery, 1 x Charger Kit, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x User Manual
UHF VHF
Frequency Range
VHF/UHF
Repeater, Two Way Radio
Compatible Devices
CHIRP software, TYT radios (VHF/UHF)
Digital Display, Dual Band, GPS & Digital APRS, Long Range, USB-C Rechargable
Additional Features
Dual Band
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Warranty Description
Please feel free to contact us via Amazon if you have any questions or suggestions.
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM-32UV GPS APRSPICK

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TYT TH-UV88

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