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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Nov 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Retevis A3

Our pick

Retevis A3$109.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner for most users.

The single most important differentiator is feature set. The DM32 includes DMR, APRS, and GPS functionality, while the A3 offers none of these digital modes or location capability. The DM32 also delivers significantly more transmit power at 8W versus an unknown specification for the A3. At half the price of the Retevis, the DM32 combines more capability with better documented owner feedback: 4.5 stars from 196 Amazon reviews versus 3.6 stars from just 31 reviews. Owners report satisfaction with the DM32's feature set and value proposition.

The A3 should appeal only to buyers who specifically need a lightweight handheld under 286 grams and have no requirement for digital modes or GPS. The DM32 suits anyone who wants digital radio capability, location features, and reliable owner-reported performance at an entry-level price point.

Buy the Baofeng DM32 unless weight is your primary constraint and you don't need any digital modes. The combination of features, power output, price, and owner satisfaction makes it the stronger choice for nearly all amateur radio applications.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-constrained buyer wanting maximum features

    It costs less and offers a far higher feature set, including DMR, APRS, and GPS, for the money.

    DM32 DMR
  • Digital voice newcomer entering DMR

    DMR support and 4000 memory channels let a new digital operator start on talkgroups without buying a second radio.

    DM32 DMR
  • Hotspot operator needing dual-mode handheld

    Its DMR and analog capability pairs well with hotspot workflows that need both digital and analog access.

    DM32 DMR
  • Licensed technician wanting NOAA and repeater use

    Its simple analog VHF and UHF interface and 6m coverage suit NOAA monitoring and repeater use without digital complexity.

    A3
  • Lightweight carry for casual analog operation

    At 286g it weighs noticeably less than the 350g Baofeng, making it easier to carry all day.

    A3
  • Experimenter wanting basic multi-band coverage

    Its 6m band alongside VHF and UHF gives broader analog coverage for experimenting on a simple radio.

    A3

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 999)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Retevis A3

  • 64g lighter (286g vs 350g)

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecRetevis A3
—
Price
$109.99
75
Overall Score
27
2.8× difference
8.00W
TX Power (High)
—
4000
Memory Channels
999
4.0× difference
350g
Weight
286g
+22% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
2500 mAh
LCD
Display
—
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
green
color
Green
1
unitCount
1

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