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RadioRanked verdict

Updated Oct 2026

Baofeng DM32 vs Yaesu FT-60R

Our pick

Baofeng DM32$49.99

The Baofeng DM32 is the clear winner for most users.

The single most important differentiator is the feature set. The DM32 includes DMR digital mode, APRS, and GPS; the FT-60R has none of these. The DM32 also offers higher TX power at 8W versus 5W, and supports CHIRP programming while the FT-60R does not. Both radios weigh essentially the same and neither has a published IP rating. Owners rate both at 4.5 out of 5 stars based on substantial review counts, so buyer satisfaction is effectively tied.

The catch is price: the DM32 costs $50 while the FT-60R costs $210. For that $160 difference, you lose digital capability, GPS, APRS, and programming flexibility with the Yaesu. The DM32 should appeal to users who want modern features, digital modes, and value; the FT-60R is worth considering only if you specifically need analog-only operation and believe Yaesu's analog design justifies the premium, though we cannot assess build quality or receiver performance from available data.

Buy the Baofeng DM32 unless you have a specific reason to prefer the FT-60R's approach to analog radio.

By use case

Which should you buy?

  • Budget-conscious new DMR operator

    The DM32 offers advanced digital modes and high capacity at a much lower price.

    DM32 DMR
  • Technician needing simple analog backup

    The FT-60R provides pure, reliable analog simplicity perfect for field backup use.

    FT-60R
  • Hotspot operator needing dual-mode flexibility

    The DM32's DMR and analog fallback capability makes it ideal for varied environments.

    DM32 DMR
  • Operator prioritizing pure analog simplicity

    The FT-60R's focus on analog VHF/UHF means fewer complex digital features to worry about.

    FT-60R
  • High-channel capacity enthusiast

    With 4000 channels, the DM32 provides vastly superior memory for complex networks.

    DM32 DMR

Reasons to choose Baofeng DM32

  • 76% cheaper ($49.99 vs $209.95)
  • 60% more TX power (8W vs 5W)
  • 4x more memory channels (4,000 vs 1,000)
  • 79% more battery (2500 mAh vs 1400 mAh)
  • 20g lighter (350g vs 370g)
  • Has DMR digital mode
  • Has APRS support
  • Has built-in GPS
  • Has CHIRP compatibility

Reasons to choose Yaesu FT-60R

  • No clear advantages in this comparison

Spec battle

Spec-by-spec breakdown

Baofeng DM32SpecYaesu FT-60R
$49.99
Price
$209.95
83
Overall Score
36
2.3× difference
8.00W
TX Power (High)
5.00W
+59% for winner
4000
Memory Channels
1000
4.0× difference
350g
Weight
370g
+5% difference
2500 mAh
Battery
1400 mAh
+79% for winner
LCD
Display
—
Covers land mobile only (Part 90)
FCC Authorization
Covers the electronics only (Part 15B)
green
color
Black
green
Color
Black
VHF UHF
Tuner Type
UHF, VHF
DM-32UV
Model Number
FT-60R
1 X Radio
Built-In Media
1400mA Battery, Charger, antenna, belt clip
Other BAOFENG devices, Headsets, Earpieces, External Antennas
Compatible Devices
MH-37A4B, MH-34B4B, E-DC-5B, EDC-6, CT-44, FBA-25A
Copy Frequency, Digital Display, Long Range
Additional Features
Weather Alert
NO
Warranty Description
3 Years
Not Water Resistant
Water Resistance Level
Water Resistant

Made your choice?

Baofeng DM32PICK

$49.99 on Amazon

Yaesu FT-60R

$209.95 on Amazon

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