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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Radioddity GD-168

Our pick

Radioddity GD-168$139.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the winner for most users. The single most important differentiator is price paired with features: the DM32 costs $50 versus $140 for the Radioddity GD-168, delivers higher transmit power at 8W versus 5W, and includes GPS where the GD-168 does not. Both radios support DMR and APRS. The DM32 is also programmable via CHIRP, which the GD-168 lacks. The GD-168's advantage is weight, at 220g versus 350g, which matters only if portability is your priority.

Owners report favorably on both radios. The DM32 has stronger owner feedback with 4.5 stars from 196 reviews; the GD-168 has 4.2 stars from 12 reviews. The smaller sample for the GD-168 means less buyer evidence to evaluate.

Buy the Baofeng DM32 if you want more power, GPS capability, CHIRP compatibility, and substantial owner feedback at the lowest price. Buy the Radioddity GD-168 only if you prioritize the lightest possible handheld and can accept lower transmit power and no GPS. For nearly everyone else, the DM32 offers better value.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained buyer starting with DMR

    It costs considerably less while still offering DMR, APRS, and GPS for digital operating on a tight budget.

    DM32 DMR
  • Hotspot operator needing dual-mode radio

    Its combined DMR and analog support with 8W output suits operators who switch between digital and FM modes.

    DM32 DMR
  • Operator needing maximum channel capacity

    Both radios store 4000 channels, but the DM32 also adds GPS and a higher feature score for busy programming needs.

    DM32 DMR
  • Buyer wanting a lightweight pocket radio

    At 220g it is noticeably lighter than the 350g DM32, making it easier to carry on hikes or all day.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Technician or General digital user wanting a color screen

    It pairs DMR and APRS with a color display and a better portability score for everyday digital contacts.

    Radioddity GD-168
  • Buyer who needs built-in GPS for portable ops

    Only the DM32 includes GPS, which matters for POTA or SOTA activations and position reporting.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 60% more TX power (8W vs 5W)
  • 39% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1800 mAh)
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Radioddity GD-168

  • 130g lighter (220g vs 350g)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecRadioddity GD-168
—
Price
$139.99
75
Overall Score
72
+4% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+59% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
4000
350g
Weight
220g
+59% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
1800 mAh
+39% for winner
LCD
Display
1.77in TFT Color
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
small
size
103.5×53.5×35.5mm (with battery pack)
green
color
Black
1
unitCount
1
green
Color
Black
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF VHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
GD-168
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
1 x 1800mAh Battery, 1 x 2600mAh Battery, 1 x Belt Clip, 1 x Adaptor, 1 x Desktop Charger Base, 1 x Type-C Cable (for programming & charging), 1 x GD-168 DMR Radio, 1 x Standard ANT, 1 x 15’’ Long ANT
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
DMR devices, FM radios, compatible accessories
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
Digital Display, Long Range, Noise Reduction, USB-C Rechargeable & Programmable, Voice Operated Transmission
NO
Warranty Description
18 month warranty
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

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Radioddity GD-168

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