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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Baofeng UV-82

Our pick

Baofeng DM32$54.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner for most users. While both radios share identical transmit power and price competitiveness, the DM32's feature set decisively outperforms the UV-82 across nearly every meaningful dimension.

The single most important differentiator is the DM32's inclusion of DMR, APRS, and GPS functionality versus the UV-82's complete absence of these capabilities. These aren't minor additions—they represent fundamentally different operational capacities. DMR opens access to modern digital networks, APRS enables location tracking and messaging, and GPS provides navigation. The DM32's overall score of 82 versus 67 reflects this substantial gap.

The only legitimate advantage the UV-82 holds is weight, coming in 90 grams lighter. For users with severe portability constraints or those with physical limitations, this matters. However, the difference is modest enough that few should compromise on features for this margin.

The UV-82 suits only those explicitly seeking an analog-only radio with minimal weight or those operating on extreme budgets where the six dollar difference justifies losing digital capability.

Buy the DM32 unless weight is genuinely critical to your operation. It's the smarter investment at virtually the same price point with substantially greater capability and proven higher user satisfaction.

Winner
Baofeng DM32
Runner-up
Baofeng UV-82

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • New DMR operator needing high capacity

    The DM32 offers superior channel memory and advanced DMR features for serious operation.

    DM32 DMR
  • Technician license beginner for local comms

    The UV-82 is simpler and lighter, perfect for basic VHF/UHF local monitoring and camping.

    UV-82
  • Hotspot operator needing multiple modes

    Its support for DMR, APRS, and GPS makes it a versatile choice for specialized field work.

    DM32 DMR
  • Budget buyer prioritizing simplicity and weight

    The UV-82 is significantly lighter and ideal for basic, low-complexity local radio use.

    UV-82
  • Advanced user needing high channel count

    With 4000 channels, the DM32 provides vastly superior memory for complex repeater access.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 8% cheaper ($54.99 vs $59.99)
  • 31x more memory channels (4,000 vs 128)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS

Reasons to choose Baofeng UV-82

  • 12% more battery (2800 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • 90g lighter (260g vs 350g)
  • IP54 water resistance

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecBaofeng UV-82
$54.99
Price
$59.99
83
Overall Score
67
+23% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
8.00W
4000
Memory Channels
128
33.3× difference
350g
Weight
260g
+35% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2800 mAh
+12% for winner
LCD
Display
LCD
IP Rating
IP54
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
Covers GMRS only (Part 95E)
small
size
10 x 8 x 5
green
color
Black
green
Color
Black
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
VHF/UHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
BAOFENG UV-82
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
2 x Baofeng uv-82 charger, 2 X Antenna, 2 x Hand Speaker Mic, 2 X Walkie Talkie Earpiece, 2 x baofeng uv-82 radio, Battery, Cable
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
Baofeng UV-5R,Baofeng BF-F8HP,Baofeng UV-82HP,Baofeng 5RX,5RM,K5PLUS Ham Radio etc.
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
Battery Saver Mode, Dual Band Two Way Radio, Emergency Alarm

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM32PICK

$54.99 on Amazon

Baofeng UV-82

$59.99 on Amazon

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