Baofeng DM-32UV vs Baofeng UV-5R Mini
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The DM-32UV is the clear winner for most users, earning a 14-point overall score advantage despite costing 64% more. The single most important differentiator is transmission power: the DM-32UV delivers 10W versus the Mini's 2W, giving you five times the range and penetration in real-world conditions.
The UV-5R Mini suits budget-conscious beginners who prioritize affordability and CHIRP programming compatibility, accepting severe power limitations and zero digital features. The DM-32UV is built for operators who need reliable long-distance communication, digital mode capability, and emergency location services through GPS and APRS.
Unless you're operating exclusively in urban areas with dense repeater networks or treating this as a throwaway loaner radio, the DM-32UV provides significantly better value. The extra $21 investment returns proportionally larger capabilities, especially the jump from 2W to 10W, which transforms this from a novelty device into a genuinely useful transceiver. If feature set and range matter to your operations, the choice is straightforward: buy the DM-32UV.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM-32UV
- 400% more TX power (10W vs 2W)
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Mini
- 43% cheaper ($32.98 vs $57.99)
- Has CHIRP compatibility
$57.99 on Amazon
★ 4.1 (184 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM-32UV | Baofeng UV-5R Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $57.99 | $32.98 |
| Overall Score | 77 | 68 |
| TX Power (High) | 10.00W | 2.00W |
| Memory Channels | 4000 | 999 |
| Weight | — | — |
| Battery | — | 1800 mAh |
| Display | — | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | Green | Black-2Pack |
| Voltage | 7.4 Volts | 7.4 Volts (DC) |
| Special Feature | Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range, Rechargable | Dual Band, Keypad Lock, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | UHF | VHF UHF |
| Model Number | DM-32 | UV-5R |
| Compatible Devices | DMR digital contact system devices, FRS two-way radios, UHF devices, Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas | Two Way Radios |
| Additional Features | Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range, Rechargable | Dual Band, Keypad Lock, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable |
| Warranty Description | NO | no |