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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Radtel RT-4D DMR

Our pick

Baofeng DM32$54.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner for most users. While both radios are budget-friendly, the DM32 delivers better overall capability for only four dollars more.

The single most important differentiator is transmission power. The DM32's 8W output versus the RT-4D's 5W means significantly better range and reliability in real-world conditions, especially in urban or mountainous terrain. That 60% power advantage translates directly to practical performance gains you'll notice immediately.

The DM32 also includes APRS functionality that the RT-4D lacks, plus CHIRP compatibility for easier programming. The RT-4D's lighter weight of 198g versus 350g matters only if you're seriously weight-conscious, and that advantage doesn't offset the performance gap.

The RT-4D makes sense only if you prioritize minimal weight and have a tight $50 budget with no flexibility whatsoever. The DM32 should be your choice if you want a capable handheld that performs well for a negligible price premium. The four-dollar savings with the RT-4D isn't worth the compromises in power, features, and programmability.

Recommendation: Buy the Baofeng DM32.

Winner
Baofeng DM32
Runner-up
Radtel RT-4D DMR

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious, high-channel capacity user

    The DM32 offers significantly more memory and features for the price.

    DM32 DMR
  • Operator prioritizing portability and low weight

    The Radtel is noticeably lighter at 198g, making it better for long treks.

    RT-4D DMR
  • Advanced user needing maximum features and modes

    The DM32 supports more modes like APRS and has higher TX power.

    DM32 DMR
  • New user needing simple, reliable, and compact radio

    Its smaller size and simpler feature set make it less overwhelming for beginners.

    RT-4D DMR
  • Ham needing high channel capacity for multiple groups

    With 4000 channels, the DM32 easily handles complex operating environments.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 60% more TX power (8W vs 5W)
  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,024)
  • Has APRS support
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Radtel RT-4D DMR

  • 9% cheaper ($49.99 vs $54.99)
  • 40% more battery (3500 mAh vs 2500 mAh)
  • 152g lighter (198g vs 350g)
  • Has Bluetooth

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecRadtel RT-4D DMR
$54.99
Price
$49.99
83
Overall Score
77
+8% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+59% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
1024
3.8× difference
350g
Weight
198g
+75% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
3500 mAh
+41% for winner
LCD
Display
LCD
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
1
unitCount
1
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF/VHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
RT-4D
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
1x Rt-4d Radio, 1x 3500mAh Li-ion battery, 1x Desktop charger, 1x USB-C cable, 1x Dual band antenna, 1x belt clip, 1x Eng user manual
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
Two-way radios on 144-148/420-450MHz frequency bands, compatible headsets, and external antennas
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
Dual Band Analog/Digital , Type C charger, DMR/Analog,, Single Call/Group Call, NOAA, Two-Time Slot,Spectrum, FM Radio
NO
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM32PICK

$54.99 on Amazon

Radtel RT-4D DMR

$49.99 on Amazon

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