Baofeng DM-5R vs Baofeng DM-V1 - Which One is Better in 2025?

Trying to choose between Baofeng DM-5R and Baofeng DM-V1? Below you'll find a side-by-side comparison of key features, specifications, and performance to help you decide which handheld radio best fits your needs. Click the link below for a full review and detailed test results.

FeatureBaofeng DM-5RBaofeng DM-V1
Image
Radio NameBaofeng DM-5RBaofeng DM-V1
Bands2m, 70cm70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm2.6/2.3
Digital ModeDMRDMR
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v3.7 v
Rated mAh2000 mAh2000 mAh
Tested mAh mAh1610 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant303 mm220 mm
Width58 mm60 mm
Thickness w/clip43 mm43 mm
Weight215 g192 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINKLINK
Price$15$30
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoNo
Rating by PriceFD
Rating OverallCF
Rating ErgonomicsB-
Conclusions

If you are wanting to get into DMR digital radio as cheap as possible, the Baofeng DM-5R Plus is the radio for you. The antenna is junk on 2m but most hotspots are on 70cm anyway. I am not sure I would replace the antenna even though it feels like it will come apart any second, mainly because the analog signal the radio produces is so horrible a new antenna probably won't do any good anyway.

All of that being said, it does just fine on DMR. Want a cheap way to add DMR to your ham shack and don't plan on spending a lot of time using it? Then the Baofeng DM-5R Plus might be the perfect solution, but if it was something I was going to carry, I believe I would look elsewhere.

Just no, do not buy a Baofeng DM-V1. If you somehow wind up with a Baofeng DM-V1 in your possession, do not waste your time and just dump it in the nearest electronics recycling bin. Personally, I have dreams of more of a Viking funeral, but there hasn’t been much rain around here lately, and I have a lot of pine trees.