Baofeng DR-1801 vs TYT MD-380 - Which One is Better in 2026?

Trying to choose between Baofeng DR-1801 and TYT MD-380? 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 DR-1801TYT MD-380
Image
Radio NameBaofeng DR-1801TYT MD-380
Bands2m, 70cm70cm
Max Power 2m/70cm3.9/30/1.9
Digital ModeDMRDMR
Battery TypeLi-IonLi-Ion
Battery Volts7.4 v7.4 v
Rated mAh2200 mAh2000 mAh
Tested mAh1780 mAh mAh
Antenna ConnectorM-SMAF-SMA
Height w/ant267 mm207 mm
Width61 mm61 mm
Thickness w/clip45 mm53 mm
Weight265 g289 g
Color ScreenNoYes
GPSNoNo
USB-C ChargingNoNo
Review LinkLINKLINK
Book Link-LINK
Price$57$100
Rating by PriceC of 5C of 5
Rating OverallC of 5C of 5
EMPTYNoNo
EMPTY123/123-
Conclusions

So now it’s time to ask if I would recommend the bow thing dr – 1801? Like with most radios, that depends. I think this radio is an excellent introduction to DMR for its price. Intermediate to advanced users will want to look somewhere else. As a successor to the DM – 1801 it is an improvement, but clearly just an iteration on a theme.

To make a long story short, if you are new to DMR, and on a budget, or are not sure how into DMR you want to get, then this is an excellent choice.

If you are looking for a nice little radio that you are going to use primarily for DMR that won’t break the bank, the TYT MD-380 might just be your perfect little handheld. You could also go with the TYT MD-UV380 dual-band version if having 2m and 70cm bands appeals to you.

You might could find a TYT MD-380 used from someone who was upgrading to a dual-band radio, in which case you could get a real deal on a great little radio.

Rating ErgonomicsB-