Part of our Handheld Radios (HTs) guide.
Looking for your first DMR handheld? After comparing today’s budget-friendly options, the Anytone AT-D168UV stands out as the one I recommend to most new amateur radio operators.
If you’ve been thinking about getting into DMR (Digital Mobile Radio), you’ve probably noticed there are dozens of handheld radios available. Some cost less than $100, while others approach $400 or more. For a new ham, it can be difficult to know which one is actually worth buying.
After using several DMR radios over the years and helping new operators get started, one radio consistently rises to the top of my recommendation list: the Anytone AT-D168UV.
It offers nearly everything a new DMR operator needs without paying flagship prices, and unlike some cheaper alternatives, it’s a radio you won’t outgrow after a few months.
Why Choose DMR?
If you’ve only operated analog FM, DMR opens the door to a much larger amateur radio community.
With a DMR handheld, you can:
- Talk on local digital repeaters
- Join worldwide talk groups
- Access thousands of linked repeaters
- Switch between analog FM and DMR
- Use individual and group calling
- Take advantage of crystal-clear digital audio
There is a bit of a learning curve—especially when it comes to code plugs and talk groups—but once you understand the basics, DMR becomes one of the most enjoyable modes in amateur radio.
Why the Anytone AT-D168UV Is My Top Pick
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Typical Price: $150–180
The AT-D168UV hits what I think is the sweet spot between affordability, features, and ease of use.
Unlike many entry-level DMR radios that feel stripped down, the D168UV includes features that you’ll continue to appreciate long after you’ve learned the basics.
What I Like
- Dual-band VHF/UHF operation
- Analog FM and DMR in one radio
- Bright, easy-to-read color display
- Excellent transmit and receive audio
- USB-C charging
- Good battery life
- Straightforward menu system
- Strong receiver performance
- Reliable firmware and software support from Anytone
One of the biggest advantages is how approachable it is. Many budget DMR radios can be frustrating for new users because of confusing menus and dated software. The D168UV feels much more refined, making it easier to focus on learning DMR instead of fighting with your radio.
A Radio You Can Grow Into
One mistake many new hams make is buying the absolute cheapest DMR radio they can find.
Six months later, they’re shopping for a replacement.
The Anytone D168UV is different. It has enough capability that it can easily remain your primary handheld long after you’ve earned your General or Extra license. Whether you’re checking into local nets, using a hotspot at home, or traveling with a DMR code plug loaded for multiple states, it continues to perform well.
In my opinion, it’s worth spending a little more upfront to buy a radio you’ll enjoy using for years.
How It Compares to Other Budget DMR Radios
There are certainly other good choices in the budget category.
Baofeng DM-32UV
The DM-32UV is one of the least expensive ways to get on DMR.
While it works well enough for casual use, its programming software and user interface aren’t nearly as polished as the Anytone. If every dollar matters, it’s a reasonable choice—but if your budget allows, I’d spend a little more for the better experience.
TYT MD-UV390 Plus
The MD-UV390 has built a reputation for being extremely rugged. Its IP67 waterproof rating makes it a great option for emergency communications, outdoor adventures, and public service events.
However, I find the menus and programming workflow less intuitive than the Anytone, especially for someone learning DMR for the first time.
BTECH DMR-6X2 PRO
The DMR-6X2 PRO is another outstanding radio and one I’d recommend without hesitation.
The reason it isn’t my top budget recommendation is simply price. By the time you purchase one, you’re getting close to premium handheld territory. If your budget stretches that far, it’s an excellent choice, but for most new operators, I think the D168UV offers the better value.
What Else You’ll Need
No matter which DMR radio you buy, you’ll also want to have:
- A free DMR ID from RadioID.net
- A programming cable if your radio doesn’t include one
- A good code plug for your area
- Access to a local DMR repeater or a personal hotspot
- A quality aftermarket antenna for improved handheld performance
Having these items ready before your radio arrives will make getting on the air much easier.
Who Is the D168UV Perfect For?
I recommend the Anytone AT-D168UV for:
- Newly licensed Technician operators
- Hams buying their first DMR radio
- Operators who want both analog and digital capability
- Travelers who use DMR hotspots
- Emergency communications volunteers
- Anyone looking for a dependable everyday handheld
Whether you’re checking into local nets or talking with operators across the country through BrandMeister or other DMR networks, the D168UV handles it with ease.
Final Thoughts
If someone asks me, “What’s the best budget DMR handheld to buy today?” my answer is simple: the Anytone AT-D168UV.
It offers the best combination of performance, usability, reliability, and value in its price range. While there are cheaper radios available, many require compromises in software, build quality, or user experience that can make learning DMR more frustrating than it needs to be.
Spend a little more, buy a radio you’ll enjoy using for years, and focus on what really matters—getting on the air and making contacts.
For most new DMR operators, I believe the Anytone AT-D168UV is the smartest investment you can make.
Once your radio arrives, Getting Started with DMR covers Brandmeister, TGIF, and hotspots, and Building Your First DMR Codeplug walks through programming it.