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

Trying to choose between Baofeng DM-5R and Baofeng UV-5RA? 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 UV-5RA
Image
Radio NameBaofeng DM-5RBaofeng UV-5RA
Bands2m, 70cm2m, 70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm2.6/25/2
Digital ModeDMR-
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2000 mAh1800 mAh
Tested mAh mAh1210 mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAM-SMA
Height w/ant303 mm245 mm
Width58 mm59 mm
Thickness w/clip43 mm45 mm
Weight215 g215 g
Color ScreenNoNo
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book LinkLINKLINK
Price$15$25
Purchase LinkLINKLINK
CHIRP ProgramNoYes
Rating by PriceDC
Rating OverallFC
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.

The Baofeng UV-5RA is literally a UV-5R in slightly new clothes, nothing more. If you prefer the looks (I don’t like the shiny face), then buy this one. If you want something less shiny, get the UV-5R. Either way, excellent radio for the price.