Baofeng DM-V1 vs Baofeng UV-21 - Which One is Better in 2025?
Trying to choose between Baofeng DM-V1 and Baofeng UV-21? 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.
| Feature | Baofeng DM-V1 | Baofeng UV-21 |
|---|---|---|
| Image |  |  |
| Radio Name | Baofeng DM-V1 | Baofeng UV-21 |
| Bands | 70cm | 2m, 70cm |
| Max Power 2m/70cm | .3 | 3.4/2 |
| Digital Mode | DMR | - |
| Battery Type | Li-Ion | Li-Ion |
| Battery Volts | 3.7 v | 8.4 v |
| Rated mAh | 2000 mAh | mAh |
| Tested mAh | 1610 mAh | 1460 mAh |
| Antenna Connector | M-SMA | M-SMA |
| Height w/ant | 220 mm | 327 mm |
| Width | 60 mm | 63 mm |
| Thickness w/clip | 43 mm | 54 mm |
| Weight | 192 g | 300 g |
| Color Screen | No | Yes |
| GPS | No | No |
| USB-C Charging | No | Yes |
| Review Link | LINK | LINK |
| Book Link | LINK | - |
| Price | $30 | $25 |
| Purchase Link | LINK | LINK |
| CHIRP Program | No | Yes |
| Value Score | D | A |
| Performance Score | F | A |
| Ergonomics Score | - | A |
| Conclusions | 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. | Do I recommend this radio? Sure. It provides a good, solid performing set of electronics housed in a comfortable exterior shell. It even comes with an antenna that isn’t complete trash. Would I recommend the Baofeng UV-21, UV-21R or UV-21 Pro? It’s a toss-up between the 21 and 21r as I am just not seeing a real difference, and I would stay away from the extra cost of the 21 Pro unless I really needed GPS in my car, in my phone, and in my radio. |