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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Aug 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Y23UV-98PLUS

Our pick

Baofeng DM32$54.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner here. It outperforms the Y23UV-98PLUS across nearly every meaningful dimension while costing significantly less, making this an unusually straightforward choice.

The single most important differentiator is the overall score gap combined with pricing. The DM32 scores 82/100 versus 72/100 while being $31 cheaper. This isn't close.

The DM32's advantages compound further: it includes DMR capability that the Y23UV-98PLUS lacks, CHIRP support for easier programming, known weight specifications, and marginally lower power consumption with only slightly less output. The Y23UV-98PLUS offers nothing compelling in return except slightly higher TX power, which matters less than you might think for handheld operations.

The DM32 should appeal to budget-conscious operators and anyone wanting solid DMR support with programming flexibility. The Y23UV-98PLUS makes sense only if you specifically need higher transmit power and already know its weight works for your needs, though these arguments are weak given the price and feature gap.

Buy the Baofeng DM32. It's the better radio at a better price.

Winner
Baofeng DM32
Runner-up
Y23UV-98PLUS

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious DMR enthusiast

    The DM32 offers superior features and channel capacity for minimal cost.

    DM32 DMR
  • Absolute beginner needing simple setup

    The Y23UV is designed for easy entry into amateur radio operations.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Hotspot operator needing dual-mode comms

    Its DMR and analog fallback modes provide excellent operational flexibility.

    DM32 DMR
  • Portable field use and camping

    The Y23UV's design focuses on portability and basic APRS tracking.

    Y23UV-98PLUS
  • Advanced user needing high channel capacity

    With 4000 channels, the DM32 supports massive operational scale.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 43% cheaper ($54.99 vs $96.85)
  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,024)
  • 4% more battery (2500 mAh vs 2400 mAh)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has CHIRP compatibility
  • FCC equipment authorization on file

Reasons to choose Y23UV-98PLUS

  • 25% more TX power (10W vs 8W)
  • Has color TFT display

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecY23UV-98PLUS
$54.99
Price
$96.85
83
Overall Score
70
+19% for winner
8.00W
TX Power (High)
10.00W
+25% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
1024
3.8× difference
350g
Weight
2500 mAh
Battery
2400 mAh
+4% for winner
LCD
Display
TFT Color
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
FCC Authorization
No grant found
green
color
Standard
1
unitCount
1
green
Color
Standard
DM-32UV
Model Number
Y23UV-98PLUS
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
1x Y23UV-98PLUS Main unit, 1x 2400mAh Li-ion Battery,1x Dual band antenna,1x Belt Clip, 1x Type C charging Cable,1x Power supple with USB port,1x MW Antenna, 1x SW Antenna,1x English User Manual
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
FRS Radios on 144-148Mhz/420-450Mhz frequencies
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
1024 Chlannels, AM FM SSB R Eeception, Adjustable Receiver Sensitivity, Cross Band Repeater, GPS/APRS
NO
Warranty Description
1 Year
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Not Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM32PICK

$54.99 on Amazon

Y23UV-98PLUS

$96.85 on Amazon

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