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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Baofeng UV-25

The DM32 is the stronger choice for most buyers. The single most important differentiator is feature set: the DM32 includes DMR and APRS capabilities that the UV-25 lacks, making it substantially more versatile for digital modes despite costing $50 less. The UV-25 offers slightly higher TX power at 10W versus 8W and includes CHIRP support for easier programming, but these advantages are modest. Owners report positive experiences with both radios, though the DM32 has more reviews backing its 4.5/5 rating compared to the UV-25's 4.3/5 from a smaller sample. The DM32 is also noticeably lighter at 350g. Buy the DM32 if you want modern digital capabilities and better value. Buy the UV-25 only if you specifically need CHIRP-based programming workflow or the extra 2W of output power justifies overlooking its narrower feature set. For the typical amateur seeking a capable handheld radio without breaking the bank, the DM32's combination of price, features, and owner satisfaction makes it the clearer recommendation.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-focused newcomer wanting digital modes

    It costs less while adding DMR and APRS, which suits a newcomer exploring digital operation on a tight budget.

    DM32 DMR
  • Operator needing 1.25m band access

    Its added 1.25m coverage and 10W output make it the better pick for wider band access.

    UV-25
  • Hotspot operator needing dual-mode capability

    DMR support and a higher feature score make it the stronger choice for dual-mode hotspot work.

    DM32 DMR
  • Technician growing into intermediate use

    A higher beginner score and simpler multi-band layout ease the transition from Technician-level operating.

    UV-25
  • Lightweight portable operator on summits

    At 350 grams it is lighter than the alternative, which helps when carrying gear on POTA or SOTA outings.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
  • 58g lighter (350g vs 408g)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-25

  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • 108% more battery (5200 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecBaofeng UV-25
75
Overall Score
61
+23% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+25% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
999
4.0× difference
350g
Weight
408g
+16% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
5200 mAh
2.1× difference
LCD
Display
Color LCD
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
small
size
2"
green
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
green
Color
Black
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
UV-25 Plus
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
5200mAh Li-ion Battery x 1, Type-C Charging Cable x 1, Adapter x 1, Gooseneck ANT x 1, High-Gain ANT x 1, Radio Pouch x 1, Belt Clip x 1, Wrist Strap x 1, Speaker Mic x 1, Headset x 1, UV-25 Plus Radio x 1
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
Repeater
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
2" Digital Display, GPS, Long Range, Rechargable with USB-C Port, Voice Operated Transmission
NO
Warranty Description
18 Months Warranty & Lifetime Support
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

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Baofeng UV-25

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