Baofeng DM-5R launches, becoming the first dual band DMR radio

baofeng dm 5r dual band DMR radio VHF UHF portable HT
The Baofeng DM-5R dual band VHF and UHF DMR portable radio.

UPDATE: The specifications for this radio state that it is a DMR Tier I radio, which would make it incompatible with ham DMR Tier II systems, such as the DMR-MARC, Brandmeister and other ham DMR repeater networks. Could this be a typographical error? Perhaps. Time will tell when the radio and its full specifications are released by Baofeng. Until then, readers are recommended to wait until more information is avaialble on this unit before purchasing one for ham radio use.

Great news for ham DMR users! Baofeng, the renowned Chinese manufacturer of value priced radio gear, will begin selling the first dual band VHF and UHF DMR radio on the market on September 26, 2016 with the launch of the Baofeng DM-5R. This portable radio not only sets the record for being the first dual band DMR radio, but it will also sets a new price record with its introductory price of $69.99 USD.

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The Baofeng DM-5R will include the following features:

  • VHF/UHF 136-174/400-480 MHz
  • 2,000 mAH high-capacity battery
  • 5 W high power and 1 W low power operation
  • 8-level stepped frequency selection
  • Auto power saving function
  • Support for both digital and analog FM operation
  • Supports Individual Call, Group Call and All Call
  • DMR Tier 1 support

Included in the Baofeng DM-5R radio package are the following:

  • 1 x Baofeng DM-5R DMR radio
  • 1 x Antenna
  • 1 x Belt Clip
  • 1 x Handbag
  • 1 x Battery
  • 1 x Intelligent Seat Type Charger
  • 1 x Power Adaptor
  • 1 x Operating Instrutions
  • 1 x Headset

While there is no mention of the programming cable or the programming software, we expect that it will be available at a nominal charge. For anyone interested in ordering one of these radios, you can refer to the Radioddity website.

About Don Trynor, VA3XFT

Don is a 16-year veteran of the telecommunications industry and a licensed Canadian ham radio operator since 1988. He is passionate about VHF/UHF repeater communications, especially using digital modes and he has owned and operated a number of ham radio repeater installations over the years, including ones in both the provinces of Ontario (VE3/VA3) and New Brunswick (VE9). In addition to ham radio, Don enjoys traveling, hiking, kayaking, biking and astronomy.