RR VerdictUpdated May 2026
Baofeng DM32 vs Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner here despite the UV-5RM Pro's higher transmit power and lighter weight. The DM32 scores 10 points higher overall and delivers better value across the board.
The single most important differentiator is DMR capability. The DM32 includes full DMR support while the UV-5RM Pro lacks it entirely. For digital radio enthusiasts, this is substantial. DMR networks are increasingly popular in the amateur radio community, and this feature alone justifies the DM32's lower price.
The DM32 also includes CHIRP compatibility, making programming and maintenance dramatically easier than the UV-5RM Pro's proprietary software approach. While the UV-5RM Pro is 49 grams lighter and produces 2 watts more power, these advantages don't compensate for losing DMR and CHIRP support.
Buy the DM32 if you want modern digital features and programming flexibility at the best price. Buy the UV-5RM Pro only if you specifically need maximum portability and slightly higher analog power output, accepting you're paying more for less capability.
The DM32 is the smarter choice for most operators.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Beginner needing high channel capacity
Its 4000 channels and DMR support offer far more flexibility for growth.
DM32 DMRBudget operator for simple field use
This radio is slightly lighter and perfect for basic, portable outdoor communication.
UV-5RM Plus GPS HamHotspot operator needing dual modes
The DM32's DMR and analog fallback capability makes it ideal for varied environments.
DM32 DMRSOTA/POTA portable field activations
Its lighter weight and focus on basic outdoor features suit park activations well.
UV-5RM Plus GPS HamOperator prioritizing advanced features
The inclusion of DMR, APRS, and CHIRP gives it superior functional depth.
DM32 DMR
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32
- 5% cheaper ($56.88 vs $59.99)
- 6x more memory channels (4,000 vs 640)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has CHIRP compatibility
Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-5RM Pro
- 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
- 49g lighter (301g vs 350g)
- Has color TFT display
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Baofeng DM32SpecBaofeng UV-5RM Pro
$56.88
Price
$59.99
83
Overall Score
77
+8% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+25% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
640
6.3× difference
350g
Weight
301g
+16% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
LCD
Display
Color LCD
Authorized
FCC Authorization
Authorized
green
color
Black-2
1
unitCount
1
green
Color
Black-2
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
UV-5RM
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
2×BAOFENG 5RM radio, 2×2500mAh lithium-ion battery; 2×original headphones; 2×hand microphone; 2×BF-771 high gain antenna; 2×original antenna; 2×power adapter; 2×belt clip ; 2 × hand strap; 1 × programming cable; 1 × user manual
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
Hand Microphone, Original Headphones, High Gain Antennas (BF-771), Original Antennas, Other Two-Way Radios using the same frequency bands and channels
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
Battery Saver Mode
NO
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant
Made your choice?
Baofeng DM32PICK
$56.88 on AmazonBaofeng UV-5RM Pro
$59.99 on Amazon