Baofeng DM32 vs Baofeng UV-5R Mini
Side-by-side comparison of specs, features, and scores.
Our Take
The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner for anyone serious about amateur radio. The single most important differentiator is the DM32's vastly superior feature set: dual-mode DMR capability, APRS support, and integrated GPS make it a genuinely modern radio, while the UV-5R Mini is a basic FM-only transceiver frozen in time.
The DM32's four-fold power advantage (8W versus 2W) means significantly better range and reliability in the field. At $54, you're spending just $21 more for a radio that does substantially more and performs better. The UV-5R Mini's only real advantage is price and compact size, but at half the power and no digital capabilities, you're not just saving money—you're buying outdated technology.
Buy the UV-5R Mini only if you're an absolute beginner wanting to spend the minimum to get on the air, or need something extremely portable as a backup. Everyone else should buy the DM32, which offers legitimate capability and future-proofs your investment for the DMR networks that are expanding across North America.
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32
- 300% more TX power (8W vs 2W)
- 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
- 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5R Mini
- 39% cheaper ($32.98 vs $54.37)
$54.37 on Amazon
★ 4.4 (184 reviews)
Specifications
| Spec | Baofeng DM32 | Baofeng UV-5R Mini |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $54.37 | $32.98 |
| Overall Score | 83 | 68 |
| TX Power (High) | 8.00W | 2.00W |
| Memory Channels | 4000 | 999 |
| Weight | 350g | — |
| Battery | 2500 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Display | LCD | — |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| FCC Authorization | Authorized | Authorized |
| Color | green | Black-2Pack |
| Special Feature | Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range | Dual Band, Keypad Lock, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable |
| Compatible Devices | Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas | Two Way Radios |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant | Not Water Resistant |
| Tuner Type | VHF UHF | VHF UHF |
| Model Number | DM-32UV | UV-5R |
| Additional Features | Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range | Dual Band, Keypad Lock, Lightweight, Long Range, Rechargable |
| Warranty Description | NO | no |