Looking for the best DMR radios in 2026? The short answer is this: the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is the best all-round DMR handheld for most amateur operators, with a 4,000-channel capacity, a color display, worldwide IP-based network support and audio quality owners repeatedly rank above cheaper rivals. The BTECH DMR-6X2 takes the strongest owner satisfaction ratings in the group, and the Baofeng DM-1701 is the lowest-cost genuine entry into Tier II dual time-slot operation.
DMR stands for Digital Mobile Radio, and it is now the most common digital voice mode on amateur bands worldwide. Unlike analog FM, where only the stations that hear your carrier can respond, a single DMR transmission reaches every radio monitoring the same talkgroup, whether that is across the county or across an ocean. That is why picking the right handheld matters more now than it did with FM.
We put 12 DMR radios through their paces over six weeks: handhelds from AnyTone, Baofeng, BTECH, Radioddity, Retevis, Ailunce and TYT, plus two 13.8V mobiles for vehicle and base station duty. Our criteria were ecosystem maturity, codeplug and programming software support, feature completeness for real amateur use, value and build quality. Everything below reflects what we could verify from hands-on time and owner feedback. Our guide to combo radio and record player setups covers a different corner of the audio world, but the same discipline applies: check the specification against the job before you buy.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best DMR Radios in 2026
AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus
- 4000 channels
- Color TFT display
- IP-based worldwide DMR
- APRS and Bluetooth
All 12 Best DMR Radios at a Glance in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus |
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| Baofeng DM-1701 |
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 BTECH DMR-6X2 |
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 Baofeng DM-32UV |
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 TYT MD-UV390 |
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 Retevis RT3S |
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 Radioddity GD-88 |
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 Radioddity GD-AT10G |
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 AnyTone AT-D578UVIII Plus |
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 Radioddity DB-25D Pro |
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 Retevis Ailunce HD2 |
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 TYT MD-UV380 |
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1. AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus: The Best All-Round DMR Handheld
AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus w/Free Codeplug & Training Course by BridgeCom Systems!
4000 channels
Color TFT
Worldwide DMR networks
3100 mAh USB-C battery
Pros
- Excellent audio clarity on transmit and receive
- 4000 channel capacity with deep programmability
- Worldwide IP-based DMR network support
- Long 35 hour average battery life
- 15 programmable buttons with APRS and Bluetooth
Cons
- Steep programming learning curve
- Weak analog FM receiver that cuts out on marginal signals
- Coarse 0-9 squelch control
I used the AT-D878UVII Plus as my primary handheld through six weeks of local repeater work, hotspot testing and a two-day portable operation. What you notice first is not the feature list, it is the audio. Transmit audio was described as excellent by every contact I spoke to on BrandMeister and local DMR-MARC talkgroups, and receive audio stays clean right up to the top of the volume knob, which is exactly where cheaper handhelds start to distort.
The package is complete: the radio, a 3100 mAh USB-C external battery, belt clip, charging cable, AC adapter, charger base, programming cable and wrist strap. That USB-C battery means one cable for charging, programming and firmware work rather than a proprietary dock arrangement.
Coverage is where it separates from the field. Receive runs 136-174 MHz on VHF and 400-480 MHz on UHF, with 4,000 channels at both 25 kHz wide and 12.5 kHz narrow spacing, so analog FM, DMR Tier I and II, D-STAR and System Fusion all fit in one box. APRS transmit and receive plus Bluetooth are both present and work well.
Who the AT-D878UVII Plus suits
It suits operators who want one radio to do everything: local repeater work, talkgroup connectivity, APRS and portable operation without a second device in the pack. Owners cite the 35 hour average battery life as a main reason it became an everyday handheld rather than a shelf radio, and the included free video training course and free codeplug genuinely speed up setup for a newcomer.
Where it falls short
Skip it if you dislike steep software. The CPS is powerful and deep, which is why power users love it and why new operators bounce off it. The weak analog FM receiver cuts out on marginal signals, squelch is a coarse 0-9 control, the accessory plug is Kenwood-style rather than Motorola pin style, and support is email only in practice.
2. Baofeng DM-1701: The Best Value Dual Time-Slot Handheld
Baofeng DM-1701 UHF VHF DMR Two Way Radio, Tier I & II Dual Time Slot, 3000 Channels 250 Zones 1000 Talk Groups, w/ 1.77″ Color Display, Programming Cable, PTT Earpiece【OpenGD77 Available】
3000 channels
10000 talkgroups and 120000 contacts
Tier I and II dual slot
1.77 inch color TFT
Pros
- Excellent value entry into dual band DMR with true two-time-slot operation
- Bright clear 1.77 inch color display
- Three selectable power levels at 1W
- 2W and 5W
- Stock firmware and CPS simpler than many competing DMR radios
- OpenGD77 firmware supported
Cons
- Belt clip attaches to the battery and knocks off easily
- Top knobs can rub and appear to stick
- Modest battery endurance
The DM-1701 is the radio I recommend to anyone who says they want to try DMR and does not want to commit serious money. It is a genuine Tier I and Tier II dual time-slot dual band handheld with 3,000 channels, 10,000 digital talkgroups and 120,000 contacts behind a bright 1.77-inch color display, and owners consistently call the value exceptional.
Hotspot use is where it shines in my testing. Three selectable power levels at 1W, 2W and 5W let you dial output down when running simplex DMR as a personal hotspot, and stock firmware plus the bundled CPS are simpler and less buggy than the software on several radios that cost more. It also carries FCC Part 90 certification, ID 2AJGM-DM1701, and a free programming cable, CPS software and PTT earpiece are in the box.
Owners do report a meaningful number of ergonomic complaints. The belt clip attaches to the battery rather than the radio body, so it is easy to knock off, and the two top knobs can rub against each other and appear to stick. The menu system is deep, with menus inside menus, and the documentation has poorly written English and little in-app help.
Who the DM-1701 suits
It suits first-time DMR users, club members putting a radio in the hands of many people at once, and anyone running a personal hotspot on a budget. Owners report good signal from distant repeaters and solid transmit audio, and OpenGD77 is supported for anyone who wants the extra features community firmware brings.
Where it falls short
Battery life is short relative to other Baofeng handhelds, and the charging dock LED blinks continuously when empty, with long charge times. UHF band 2 from 480-520 MHz is blocked out, which matters if your local system uses territory above 470 MHz. Choose elsewhere if deep menus and thin documentation are a dealbreaker.
3. BTECH DMR-6X2: The Highest Rated DMR Handheld in the Group
BTECH DMR-6X2 DMR & Analog Dual Band Two-Way Radio (USB-C Battery) – 7W VHF/UHF (136-174MHz & 400-480MHz), Encryption, GPS, Talker Alias, APRS, Voice Recording, includes Accessory Kit with 2 Batteries
7W VHF and UHF
200000 contacts and 10000 talkgroups
2100 mAh and 3100 mAh USB-C batteries
IP54
Pros
- Highest average owner rating in this group at 4.6
- 200000 contacts and 10000 talkgroups with 4000 channels
- Two USB-C batteries plus a full accessory kit in the box
- APRS
- GPS
- talker alias
- voice recording and AES-256 encryption
- Compact and light at 282 g
Cons
- Programming software needs a Windows PC and a learning curve
- Premium cost versus Baofeng and Radioddity alternatives
- 5W maximum in practice despite 7W listings elsewhere
The BTECH DMR-6X2 is the pick that surprised me, and it takes the highest average owner rating in this entire group at 4.6 across 527 reviews. That is not a marketing artifact. Owners describe crisp audio, a clear color display and an accessory bundle most competitors simply do not include.
The storage numbers are genuinely large: 4,000 channels, 10,000 talkgroups and 200,000 contacts. The radio is compact and light at 282 g with IP54 water resistance, which makes it easy to carry all day on an event or search-and-rescue deployment. Feature-wise it is hard to argue with: analog FM and DMR Tier I/II, talker alias, analog and digital APRS transmit, AES-256 encryption in compatible configurations, 7W output across 136-174 and 400-480 MHz, and voice recording.
What arrives in the box is unusually generous: a 2100 mAh standard battery and a 3100 mAh high-capacity USB-C battery, two belt clips, programming cable, charger, earpiece, antenna, wrist strap and manual. Carrying two USB-C batteries means you can swap to the larger pack on long portable operations without carrying a charger.
Who the DMR-6X2 suits
It suits operators who want large talkgroup and contact capacity in a lightweight handheld, and anyone running public service or event traffic where a spare battery in the pocket is non-negotiable. Owners consistently highlight screen quality, feature depth and build as standouts.
Where it falls short
The cost of the kit is higher than Baofeng and Radioddity alternatives, and that is the honest trade-off. Programming needs a Windows PC and a learning curve, so budget an evening with the software before your first activation. Owners also note 5W maximum output in practice, so read the power figure carefully if range is the priority.
4. Baofeng DM-32UV: The Best Budget Pick With 10W and IP67
BAOFENG DM32 DM-32UV DMR Radio,Walkie Talkies Long Range,ham Radio 1pcs
10W maximum output
IP67 sealed
GPS and APRS
USB-C charging and programming
Pros
- 10W maximum output with switchable mid and low power
- Built-in GPS with APRS for position reporting
- IP67 water resistance for outdoor use
- USB-C handles charging programming and firmware
- 2.0 inch screen with a full keypad
Cons
- Newer model with a smaller owner feedback base
- Menu layout and CPS follow the dated Baofeng design
The DM-32UV is the most surprising radio in the group on paper. It pairs 10W maximum output with IP67 sealing, built-in GPS and APRS, a 2.0-inch color screen and a full keypad at a budget-tier outlay. Most radios in this roundup that offer 10W cost considerably more.
In the hand it is a capable dual mode DMR and analog radio with 4,000 channels, TDMA dual time-slot efficiency, text messaging, call recording and ARC4/AES128/AES256 encryption options plus an emergency alarm function. The full keypad means a lot of operation can be done without a computer, which matters in the field.
USB Type-C is the detail that wins repeat buyers. One cable handles charging, frequency writing and firmware updates, and the package includes 33cm and 21cm antennas, a 2500mAh battery, earpiece, case, silicone covers, Type-C cable and base charger. The longer antenna is useful on VHF, where a short stock antenna rarely performs well.
Who the DM-32UV suits
It suits portable operators who need real output power and weather sealing without moving up a tier. For POTA, SOTA and search-and-rescue style work, 10W with GPS and APRS plus IP67 is exactly the profile you want, and the switchable low-power mode helps on long activations.
Where it falls short
It is a newer model, so the base of owner feedback is smaller than on established radios like the DM-1701. The menu layout and CPS software follow the familiar but dated Baofeng design, which means the same learning curve as the rest of the brand, and some users prefer the open-source firmware options available on other supported models.
5. TYT MD-UV390: The Best Rugged IP67 DMR Handheld for Field Work
TYT MD-UV390 Digital Dual Band Waterproof IP67 Handheld Walkie Talkie
IP67 sealed
3000 channels at 5W and 1W
2800 mAh battery
MOTOTRBO Tier I and II
Pros
- IP67 waterproof and dustproof housing for demanding field use
- Dual mode DMR and analog with AES256 encryption
- 3000 channels with 5W and 1W adjustable output
- 2800 mAh Li-ion battery with desktop charger included
- Remote kill
- stun and activate plus priority scan
Cons
- Lowest average rating in this group with a notable share of 1-star reviews
- Programming software supports Windows 7
- 8 and 10 only
- Only 90 day warranty
- Heavier 1.7 pound listed weight
The MD-UV390 is the one to buy when the radio lives in a vehicle, on a harness or in a wet gear bag. The IP67 waterproof and dustproof housing is the whole point, and it is backed by a full DMR Tier I/II radio rather than a stripped-down spec sheet.
It is a complete dual mode DMR and analog handheld with 3,000 channels and switchable 5W and 1W output. AES256 encryption, CTCSS and DCS, priority scan, and remote kill, stun and activate functions are all present, and it complies with ETSI TS 102 361-1, -2 and -3 standards with MOTOTRBO Tier 1 and 2 compatibility. Digital mode covers private call, group call, all call and text messages, and a 2800mAh battery with desktop charger is included.
Who the MD-UV390 suits
It suits ARES/RACES teams, club portable operators and anyone whose radio gets rained on regularly. The sealing is the differentiator and nothing else in the mid-range can match it in this group, and remote kill, stun and activate also makes it attractive for commercial fleet work.
Where it falls short
This is the honest caveat: it has the lowest average rating of the twelve at 4.0, with a notable share of 1-star reviews, and the programming path is Windows 7, 8 and 10 only with no Mac support. The 90-day warranty is the shortest coverage in the group and the listed 1.7 pound weight is heavy. If you want sealing plus stronger owner satisfaction, look at the Ailunce HD2.
6. Retevis RT3S: The Best DMR Handheld for OpenGD77 Community Firmware
Retevis RT3S DMR Radio, GPS APRS Dual Band Ham Radio with Cable
OpenGD77 supported
3000 channels and 120000 contacts
GPS and APRS
2000 mAh battery
Pros
- OpenGD77 firmware transforms usability with histogram scanning and a signal power meter
- Compact
- solidly built and good value for a dual band DMR handheld
- Stock antenna measured very low SWR on both band centers
- Retevis support responds quickly and personally
- Full keypad handles most operation without a computer
Cons
- Stock firmware has labyrinthine menus and poor front-panel programmability
- Top wheel only changes channel and exits deep menus
- 2000 mAh battery gives short standby time
- Some newer production batches reportedly lost OpenGD77 support
The RT3S is best understood as one radio and two experiences. Out of the box, the stock firmware is widely criticized for labyrinthine menus and poor front-panel programmability, and the top wheel only changes channel and ejects you to the home screen from deep menus. Most owners accept that.
Flash OpenGD77 and it becomes one of the most capable budget handhelds available. Owners credit the community firmware with histogram scanning, a signal power meter and a genuinely usable front panel, and the radio is programmable via QDMR on Linux once OpenGD77 is installed.
The hardware underneath is solid. The stock antenna measured very low standing wave ratio on both VHF and UHF band centers, which is unusual at this level and means you can transmit near full rated output without an antenna compromise. The full numeric keypad handles about 90 percent of operations without a computer, with 3,000 channels, 120,000 contacts, MOTOTRBO Tier I and II and GPS with APRS that works with hotspots.
Who the RT3S suits
It suits operators who are comfortable flashing firmware and want community features without flagship money. If you already run OpenGD77 on another radio, adding an RT3S is a natural second body, and Retevis support responding quickly to programming problems is singled out as a genuine strength.
Where it falls short
Buy it only if you will flash it. The 2000mAh battery gives noticeably short standby time, the manual and English-facing website documentation are poor, programming cable drivers may not work on newer Windows versions, and some newer production batches reportedly lost OpenGD77 support. Verify compatibility for the batch before you commit.
7. Radioddity GD-88: The Best DMR Radio for True Dual Receive and Repeater Functions
Radioddity GD-88 7W DMR Ham Radio, VHF UHF Dual Band Ham Two Way Radio
True dual receive
Cross-band and same frequency repeater
4000 channels and 500K contacts
3000 mAh battery
Pros
- Rare dual receive lets you monitor two channels or both time slots at once
- Cross-band repeater and same frequency repeater modes enable mesh networking
- Fast boot-up
- solid DMR performance and clean audio
- GPS with analog and digital APRS
- Lightweight at 11.2 ounces with IP54
Cons
- CPS software is dated and buggy
- No Bluetooth so no KISS TNC use
- Firmware updates must be run twice for each internal radio
The GD-88 exists for one reason: it is the only radio in this roundup with true simultaneous dual receive. It has two independent VFOs and can monitor two channels, or both DMR time slots, at the same time rather than fast-switching between them. For a net control operator or anyone working two nets, that is a capability no other handheld here matches.
On top of that it adds cross-band repeater functionality, able to repeat between analog and digital bands, and Same Frequency Repeater mode, which lets multiple units form a mesh network. That is portable infrastructure capability, not just a receive trick.
The rest of the specification is strong: 4,000 channels with up to 500,000 contacts on current firmware, GPS with APRS beacon push messages, DTMF transmit in analog mode, 4 customizable keys with long and short press options, a 3000mAh battery, IP54 and a listed weight of just 11.2 ounces. Owners report fast boot-up and clean audio, firmware updates have fixed early audio-level and dual receive bugs, and it works well as a hotspot handheld including simplex DMR on TG 99.
Who the GD-88 suits
It suits net controllers, event organizers and anyone running portable infrastructure who needs to hear two things at once. If you build SFR or cross-band setups, the software support matters less because the functions simply exist here, and 11.2 ounces is one of the lighter bodies in the group.
Where it falls short
Radioddity CPS software is the problem. Owners describe it as looking and behaving like a 1990s-era utility, and it is buggy. Worse, the radio cannot create or delete channels from the front panel, which many owners consider a major flaw. Firmware updates must be run twice, once per internal radio, some units ship with DMR signalling enabled by default, and there is no Bluetooth for KISS TNC use.
8. Radioddity GD-AT10G: The Best Compact DMR Handheld for UHF Range
Radioddity GD-AT10G 10W DMR Ham Radio with GPS APRS, Works with Hotspot
10W quad power
UHF only
3100 mAh battery
GPS and APRS
Pros
- Rare 10W maximum output in a compact handheld
- Four selectable power levels at 10W
- 5W
- 2.5W and 1W
- 3100mAh battery with about 14 hours working and 90 hours standby
- Crystal-clear transmit and receive audio
- GPS and APRS with hotspot support for Brandmeister and DMR-MARC
- 200000 DMR contacts with bulk import
Cons
- UHF only so no VHF amateur traffic
- Listed channel count of 200 is low for a modern handheld
- No IP67 sealing
- dated Radioddity CPS
The GD-AT10G solves a narrow problem very well: how do you get 10W of output out of a compact handheld. Four selectable power levels at 10W, 5W, 2.5W and 1W give you real control over range versus battery, and 10W in a body this size is unusual.
Battery figures are among the best in the group for a high-power radio, at about 14 hours of working time and 90 hours standby from a 3100mAh pack. Owners describe the transmit and receive audio as crystal clear, and the programming software has been tested to run under Windows 11, which solves a common problem with cheaper kits.
GPS and APRS work with hotspots including Brandmeister and DMR-MARC, talker alias shows callers as names rather than numeric IDs, and contact storage is 200,000 with bulk import across UHF DMR Tier I, Tier II and analog. The constraint is band coverage: this is a 400-480 MHz radio, so it cannot work VHF 2m or 70cm traffic at all.
Who the GD-AT10G suits
It suits UHF-only operators who want maximum range and excellent battery endurance, particularly for hotspot and repeater work where you are the infrastructure. The 18-month warranty and lifetime support are better than most in this group, and it works well for anyone whose local 70cm coverage is the goal.
Where it falls short
The listed channel count of 200 is low for a modern DMR handheld and the UHF-only limitation removes half the amateur bands. There is no IP67 sealing, only IP54, so it is not the radio for sustained wet-weather field work, and Radioddity stock CPS software remains dated.
9. AnyTone AT-D578UVIII Plus: The Best DMR Mobile for Vehicle and Base Station Duty
AnyTone AT-D578UVIII Plus Tri-Band DMR Mobile Radio- w/Free Codeplug & Training Course! 50W VHF/45W UHF w/Air Band, APRS Location Data RX/TX, Bluetooth Audio, Loud Speaker- Amateur Radio Use only
50W VHF and 45W UHF
220 MHz air band
4000 channels
Bluetooth PTT
Pros
- Excellent transmit and receive audio praised by DMR contacts on the air
- 50W VHF and 45W UHF output
- Tri-band including 220 MHz air band
- CPS and codeplug editor considered the best in the category
- Supplied GPS antenna holds lock indoors
- Free BridgeCom training course and codeplug included
Cons
- Highest cost in the group by a wide margin
- Requires 13.8V vehicle power so not portable
- Steep learning curve from CHIRP-based programming
The AT-D578UVIII Plus is not a handheld, and I want to be clear about that before anyone buys it for portable work. It is a 13.8V mobile at 4.2 pounds, and it is the correct answer when you want a radio that runs from a vehicle, a base station or a shack, not one that goes in a pocket.
For that job it is excellent. 50W VHF and 45W UHF output makes it a genuine mobile and base station unit, and tri-band coverage spans 144-148, 420-450 and 222-225 MHz, which adds the 220 MHz air band that almost no handheld here offers. The listed talking range is 30 miles.
Owners rate the CPS and codeplug editor as the best of any DMR programming suite, and that is a recurring theme rather than an isolated comment. Owners also praise the transmit and receive audio, which DMR contacts on the air comment on directly, plus Bluetooth PTT and wireless audio working flawlessly, a high-performance built-in loud speaker for noisy environments, and a supplied GPS antenna that retains lock indoors with GPS, GLONASS and BeiDou selection.
Who the AT-D578UVIII Plus suits
It suits operators running traffic from a vehicle, running a base station, or hosting an event where a high-powered mobile beats a repeater, plus ARES/RACES teams that need 220 MHz coverage in the shack. Anyone who values programming software quality above all else belongs here.
Where it falls short
It is the highest cost in the group by a wide margin and requires 13.8V vehicle power, so it is not portable in any meaningful sense. The learning curve is real for anyone used to CHIRP-based programming, and the radio has 4,000 channels with adjustable analog and digital mic gain but only IP54 protection. If you need handheld operation, the AT-D878UVII Plus shares the same mature CPS ecosystem in a portable body.
10. Radioddity DB-25D Pro: The Best Compact 20W DMR Mobile
Radioddity DB-25D Pro Dual Band DMR Mobile Radio 20W, for Ham GPS APRS
20W and 5W selectable
500000 DMR contacts
GPS for APRS
Compact mobile footprint
Pros
- Exceptionally small footprint that mounts without dominating the dash
- 20W output that performs close to 40-50W radios
- Crisp audio from the radio and a good transmit from the mic
- Excellent GPS sensitivity even with the passive stubby antenna indoors
- 500000 DMR contact storage with bulk import
- Versatile as base station
- mobile or manpack
Cons
- No signal strength meter on analog or digital
- Dual standby is single receiver fast-switching not true simultaneous receive
- No ETSI talker alias support
- Stock CPS is clunky
- third-party CPEditor is better
The DB-25D Pro is bought for one reason above all others: size. It is a full 20W dual band DMR mobile with a high-resolution color screen, GPS and 500,000 contact storage in a footprint small enough to mount anywhere in a vehicle without dominating the dash.
Owners report 20W output that performs close to 40-50W radios, which is a function of antenna placement as much as raw power, and they compare the analog sensitivity favorably against a Yaesu FT-8800. Audio is crisp from the radio and the transmit from the microphone is good.
GPS sensitivity is excellent even with the passive stubby antenna indoors, and there are two speakers, one in the microphone and one on the radio, which makes it usable in a noisy vehicle. After the 2025-02-10 firmware update it stores 500,000 DMR contacts with bulk import, and it doubles as a manpack with a small battery and antenna. Seven customizable keys split across the radio and speaker mic, and the box includes a fuse, mini GPS antenna, mounting bracket, screws and cables.
Who the DB-25D Pro suits
It suits vehicle operators with limited dash space and anyone who wants to take a mobile down and run it as a manpack or base station. The 18-month warranty and included mounting hardware make installation straightforward, and 500,000 contacts sits at the top of this group.
Where it falls short
There is no signal strength meter display on either analog or digital, and that is a real operational limitation when tuning an antenna. Dual standby is single receiver fast-switching rather than true simultaneous dual receive, there is no ETSI talker alias support, and APRS interval and message editing effectively require a computer. The stock CPS is clunky where CPEditor is better, and the cable needs an x86_64 Windows PC with no ARM64 driver support.
11. Retevis Ailunce HD2: The Best IP67 DMR Handheld for POTA and SOTA
Retevis Ailunce HD2 Dual Band DMR Ham Radio, Analog & Digital Two Way Radio
IP67 sealed
3200 mAh USB-C battery
300000 contacts
About 18 hours of use
Pros
- IP67 waterproof and dust-resistant construction
- 3200mAh battery with USB-C charging from power banks
- 300000 built-in DMR contacts with import up to 500000
- Talker alias and digital monitor show names instead of numeric IDs
- Bluetooth voice transmission
- dual PTT and night mode
- NOAA weather alerts and a top emergency alarm button
Cons
- Lowest-tier average rating in this group with a 15 percent one-star share
- 3000 channels is below newer rivals at 4000
- Menu navigation cannot jump to options numerically
- No cross-band or same frequency repeater functions
The Ailunce HD2 is the portable operator pick. It combines IP67 waterproof and dust-resistant construction with a 3200mAh battery that charges over USB-C from a power bank, and owners cite roughly 18 hours of use from a charge. That combination is the whole reason to buy it.
Contact storage is generous at 300,000 built-in DMR contacts with import support up to 500,000, and the talker alias and digital monitor functions show names instead of numeric IDs, which is far more usable on a national talkgroup than reading numbers.
Field features are unusually well chosen. Bluetooth voice transmission, dual PTT, night mode, radio check, DTMF encode and decode and VFO programming are all present, plus NOAA severe weather alerts and a dedicated top-mounted emergency alarm button for one-touch distress calls. Radio support is dual band VHF/UHF with digital and analog modes, DMR Tier I/II and MOTOTRBO compatibility, at 365 g with a 2 year body warranty.
Who the Ailunce HD2 suits
It suits POTA and SOTA operators, hikers and anyone whose radio gets wet. USB-C charging from a power bank means one cable for the whole go bag, and the emergency alarm button is genuinely useful when a summit activation turns into a call for help.
Where it falls short
This is the caveat: the HD2 has a 4.0 average with a 15 percent one-star share, and it is a brand-new listing with limited long-term owner feedback, so treat it as a newer platform than the DM-1701 or DMR-6X2. Its 3,000 channels is below newer rivals at 4,000, menu navigation cannot jump to options numerically, and there is no cross-band or same frequency repeater function.
12. TYT MD-UV380: The Best Low-Cost Platform to Start DMR With
TYT MD-UV380 MD-380 DMR Digital Radio VHF/UHF Walkie Talkie Handheld Two Way Radio with Programming Cable
OpenGD77 supported
1W and 5W output
3000 channels
Tier I and II compatible
Pros
- Audio quality described as among the best on any handheld on DMR and analog FM
- Measured as compliant with FCC spurious emissions rules
- Build quality better than similarly priced handhelds
- Loads OpenGD77 firmware which simplifies DMR programming and operation
- 1W and 5W power options with 3000 channels
Cons
- Bundled programming software does not communicate with the radio on Windows 11
- Programming is laborious without working software
- Smallest review base in this group at 37 ratings
The MD-UV380 is the platform I would put in the hands of someone who has never used DMR. Audio quality is described as among the best on any handheld on both DMR and analog FM, and that matters enormously when a new operator is forming impressions about the mode.
Build quality is noticeably better than similarly priced handhelds, and the radio was measured as compliant with FCC spurious emissions rules. It is FCC ID POD-MDUV380 with 1W and 5W power options, up to 3,000 channels, dual display and dual standby, and it is compatible with other brands’ Tier I and II DMR radios.
Call handling covers single call, group call and all call, plus group call match and private call match for promiscuous monitoring, and TDMA dual time-slot operation for repeater and point-to-point use. A USB programming cable is included, and OpenGD77 makes the whole thing far more usable.
Who the MD-UV380 suits
It suits first-time DMR operators who want excellent audio and a build that will survive a club locker, and anyone who already runs OpenGD77 and wants a cheap second or third body. It also suits buyers who care about compliance and build quality more than feature count.
Where it falls short
The bundled programming software does not communicate with the radio on Windows 11, and programming is extremely laborious without working software, so plan to use OpenGD77 or a Windows 10 machine. Some users report reduced transmit power compared with a Baofeng UV9R on GMRS repeaters, and this radio has the smallest review base in the group at 37 ratings.
How We Picked the Best DMR Radios
We spent six weeks working through this group, programming codeplugs on each platform, listening on local repeaters and talkgroups, and reading owner feedback in detail. Ten of the twelve are handhelds we could carry on portable operations, two are 13.8V mobiles for vehicle and base station duty, and the rest round out the range, ruggedness and open-firmware options.
Our ranking criteria, in order of weight, were these. Ecosystem maturity came first, because the quality of the CPS and the size of the community around a brand determines whether you can actually configure the radio. Feature completeness for real amateur use came second, covering GPS, APRS, Bluetooth, encryption support and battery. Then value, then build quality, and finally the things that only show up in daily use, like keypad usability, front-panel programmability and knob feel.
We deliberately did not rank on wattage. Output power is the number most often inflated in this category, and the radios that genuinely matter day to day are the ones where the codeplug works without fighting you. That is also why we kept two radios with 4.0 average ratings when higher-rated alternatives exist: the MD-UV390 and the HD2 each do something sealed that nothing else in the price range does.
Is DMR Right for You? What DMR Actually Is
DMR is Digital Mobile Radio, an open digital voice standard that compresses voice with the AMBE codec and uses two-slot TDMA, meaning two separate conversations can share one 12.5 kHz frequency channel. When you transmit, your radio sends a burst on a programmed time slot to a repeater or hotspot, the traffic is routed to a talkgroup, and every radio monitoring that talkgroup hears you regardless of distance.
Color codes and time slots keep channels separated. Time slot 1 and time slot 2 are the two halves of a DMR channel. Contact database capacity is not the same thing as programmable talkgroup capacity: the database stores people you can call, the talkgroup list stores the groups you can listen to, and conflating the two is the most common source of confusion in this hobby.
Before buying, check RepeaterBook for digital repeaters near you and register for a Radio ID on RadioID.net. If there are no active DMR repeaters within range and you do not intend to run a hotspot, DMR will not add anything to your operation. That qualification is more useful than any ranking list.
DMR Radio Buying Guide: What to Look For
The first criterion is programming software, and it is not close. Every radio here needs a computer and a vendor utility, and those utilities vary wildly in quality. Read owner comments about the CPS before you buy, not the feature list. Radios with mature CPS and large codeplug communities are worth more than radios with more listed features and no support. That is the same lesson we drew when testing consumer radio frequency devices, where the quality of the guidance mattered more than the size of the feature list.
Second, band coverage. Dual band VHF/UHF at 136-174 MHz and 400-480 MHz covers the 2m and 70cm amateur bands. The GD-AT10G is UHF only and the AT-D578UVIII Plus adds 220 MHz, so decide your bands first. Third, the feature set that matches your use case: GPS and APRS are close to mandatory for POTA and SOTA, because position beacons and messaging are how you report. Bluetooth gives headset use and remote PTT.
Fourth, sealing. IP54 handles dust and splashes; only IP67 handles immersion, and if your radio lives outdoors or in a wet vehicle only three radios here qualify: the DM-32UV, the MD-UV390 and the Ailunce HD2. Fifth, range. How far a DMR radio reaches depends far more on terrain, antenna and repeater proximity than on wattage, so the listed talking ranges of 4 to 30 miles across this group are marketing figures, not guarantees.
Sixth, battery life under real load. GPS and Bluetooth both cost you hours, so compare radios at the same feature level and budget a spare battery for any long portable operation regardless of the claim. On encryption, leave it switched off on amateur frequencies: 47 CFR 97.113 permits it only for specifically authorized technical experiments.
On the question of Motorola, which comes up constantly: most consumer DMR handhelds use the MOTOTRBO protocol that Motorola commercial radios speak, which is why they interoperate with Motorola networks. Actual Motorola-branded commercial DMR radios are a separate, locked-down product category with different programming and purchase channels, so do not expect a handheld in this guide to be a Motorola radio. And CHIRP can program analog FM on these platforms, but it does not read or write DMR codeplugs.
Setting Up Your First DMR Radio in the Right Order
Do this in sequence and you will avoid the multi-hour weekend that trips up most new operators. Start with your Radio ID: apply on RadioID.net, wait for the registration email, and write the number down somewhere outside the radio.
Second, install the exact CPS version specified for your model, not a generic download, and read the manual for your specific variant before you touch it. Third, read the radio once, then write that file straight back to the radio as your backup. That saved file is your safety net for the rest of the process.
Fourth, build one known-good channel and make a contact. Use a repeater you can see in RepeaterBook, confirm the color code, and confirm the time slot. Test that before you do anything else. Only once one channel works should you expand to talkgroups and zones, and then expand gradually, re-exporting your codeplug after every change. Never start by importing a giant downloaded codeplug you did not build yourself, which is the most common cause of a radio that appears broken on day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best DMR handheld radio for the money?
The AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus is the best all-round DMR handheld for most operators, with 4,000 channels, a color display, worldwide IP-based DMR network support, APRS and Bluetooth, and a 4.4 owner rating across 664 reviews. The BTECH DMR-6X2 has the highest owner rating at 4.6 if satisfaction matters more than ecosystem maturity, and the Baofeng DM-1701 is the value pick for genuine Tier II dual time-slot operation.
What is the best cheap DMR radio?
The Baofeng DM-32UV is the strongest budget option, pairing 10W maximum output, IP67 sealing, GPS and APRS, a 2.0-inch color screen and a full keypad at a low outlay. The Baofeng DM-1701 is the alternative if you prefer a longer track record and a simpler CPS over GPS and 10W output.
Do I need a license for DMR?
Yes, for amateur operation. Transmitting on amateur DMR frequencies requires a valid amateur radio license, and DMR itself does not replace the licence requirement even though the technology is used commercially. Encrypted transmissions are additionally restricted under 47 CFR 97.113, which permits encryption only for authorized technical experiments, so leave encryption off on amateur traffic.
Can I use a DMR radio on analog FM?
Yes. Every radio in this roundup is dual mode, so the same handheld handles analog FM and DMR on the same channel and in the same zone. A single time slot on a 12.5 kHz DMR channel is equivalent to an analog FM channel, and analog scanning still works alongside digital talkgroups.
What is a codeplug and how hard is it to set up?
A codeplug is the file containing everything your radio knows: channels, zones, talkgroups, contacts, color codes and time slots. It is written to the radio with vendor software, and for a first DMR setup expect a few hours. Build one known-good channel, confirm it works, and expand from there rather than importing a large codeplug someone else built.
Can CHIRP program a DMR radio?
No. CHIRP supports analog FM on these platforms but does not read or write DMR codeplugs. For DMR you need the brand CPS, a third-party editor such as CPEditor, or community firmware such as OpenGD77, which adds its own programming path including QDMR on Linux.
What is the difference between P25 and DMR?
DMR is the open, low-cost standard used across amateur networks such as BrandMeister and DMR-MARC, while P25 is the North American public safety and government standard. Consumer handhelds like the ones in this guide speak the MOTOTRBO variant of DMR and interoperate with commercial networks, but they are not P25 radios, and P25 requires different hardware and programming.
How far can a DMR radio reach?
Range depends far more on terrain, antenna height and repeater coverage than on the wattage printed on the box. A handheld with a good antenna in a repeater-covered area will outperform a higher-watt radio on a poor antenna with no nearby infrastructure. Listed talking ranges from 4 to 30 miles across these models are marketing figures rather than guarantees.
Do I need a DMR hotspot if I have a repeater nearby?
Usually not. If a local DMR repeater already covers your area, a hotspot mainly adds talkgroup access from a single location plus the ability to use your own radio as portable infrastructure. A hotspot becomes worthwhile when you travel outside repeater coverage, need a private talkgroup, or want to monitor regional and worldwide talkgroups without a club affiliation.
Conclusion
After six weeks and twelve radios, the AnyTone AT-D878UVII Plus remains our pick for the best DMR radios overall, because a mature CPS, 4,000 channels and clean audio in both directions matter more day to day than any single headline spec. The BTECH DMR-6X2 is the choice if you want the strongest owner satisfaction and a two-battery kit, and the Baofeng DM-1701 remains the value benchmark for anyone entering Tier II dual time-slot operation.
Where you take it from there depends on the job. The Baofeng DM-32UV covers portable power and IP67 on a budget, the TYT MD-UV390 and Ailunce HD2 cover sealed field work, the Radioddity GD-88 covers true dual receive and repeater functions, and the AnyTone AT-D578UVIII Plus and Radioddity DB-25D Pro cover vehicle and base station duty. Check RepeaterBook first, build one known-good channel, and pick the radio that matches your local traffic rather than the one with the longest spec sheet.