RadioRanked verdict
Updated Nov 2026Baofeng DM32 vs Retevis RA79
Our pick
Retevis RA79$34.99
The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner for most amateur radio operators. The single most important differentiator is the feature set: the DM32 includes DMR, APRS, and GPS capability, while the RA79 offers none of these digital modes. The DM32 also delivers significantly more transmit power at 8W versus an unknown specification on the RA79. Both radios share identical owner ratings of 4.5/5 stars based on substantial review counts, so buyers report comparable satisfaction with each. The RA79 costs $19 less and weighs 125g less, making it genuinely portable, and its CHIRP compatibility is convenient for programming. However, those advantages don't offset the functional gap for operators wanting digital mode capability. The DM32 is the better investment if you plan to use DMR networks or APRS tracking. Choose the RA79 only if you need a lightweight analog-only radio and can accept missing transmit power specifications and no digital mode support.
By use case
Which should you buy?
Budget-conscious buyer wanting the lowest entry cost
It costs less up front and covers VHF, UHF, and 1.25m for someone just exploring the hobby.
RA79First-time licensee learning on a simple radio
Its simpler controls and easier setup suit a new operator who wants to start transmitting without a steep learning curve.
RA79Lightweight field operator carrying a radio all day
At 225g it is noticeably lighter than the 350g alternative, which matters on long hikes or activations.
RA79DMR digital operator or hotspot user
It supports DMR and offers a higher features score, letting digital-mode operators use talkgroups and hotspots.
DM32 DMRHams needing large channel capacity
Its 4000-channel memory far exceeds the 200 channels offered by the alternative, suiting busy multi-site programming.
DM32 DMROperator wanting APRS and GPS features
Built-in APRS and GPS support let it handle position reporting, which the other radio cannot do.
DM32 DMR
Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32
- 20x more memory channels (4,000 vs 200)
- 79% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
- Has DMR digital mode
- Has APRS support
- Has built-in GPS
- FCC equipment authorization on file
Reasons to choose Retevis RA79
- 125g lighter (225g vs 350g)
Spec battle
Spec-by-spec breakdown
Made your choice?
Baofeng DM32PICK
Search on AmazonRetevis RA79
$34.99 on AmazonKeep researching
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