In the rapidly evolving world of amateur radio handhelds, few radios have managed to balance comprehensive features with genuine usability as successfully as the Anytone AT-D878UVII Plus. This isn’t just another DMR handheld with impressive specifications—it’s a thoughtfully engineered communications platform that addresses the real-world needs of modern amateur radio operators who demand both digital capability and analog reliability.
- What's included: AT-D878UVII Plus Radio, 3100 mAh External Battery w/ Belt Clip, Charging Cable, AC Adapter, Charger Base, PTT Button, Programming Cable, Wrist Strap, FREE Handheld Training
- NOW includes the USB-C rechargeable Battery! You can now charge your battery on the go with the New USB-C Battery from AnyTone.
- Communicate over world-wide IP Based DMR digital radio networks. Frequency Range: Part 97 Amateur RX: 136-174MHz (VHF) , 400-480MHz (UHF), TX: 14-148MHz (VHF) , 420-450MHz (UHF)
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The Complete Digital Communications Platform
What distinguishes the AT-D878UVII Plus from simpler DMR radios is its approach to digital communications as a comprehensive system rather than just another mode. Operating on both 136–174 MHz (VHF) and 400–480 MHz (UHF) bands with full DMR Tier I and Tier II support alongside traditional analog FM/NFM modes, this radio seamlessly bridges the gap between traditional amateur radio and the digital future.
The radio’s memory capacity reflects this comprehensive approach: 4,000 memory channels, 10,000 DMR talk groups, and an impressive 500,000 digital contacts organized across 250 zones with up to 250 channels per zone. These aren’t just impressive numbers—they enable serious participation in complex DMR networks without the constant memory management that limits simpler radios.
Power and Performance That Scales
The AT-D878UVII Plus delivers thoughtful power management with four adjustable transmit levels: VHF operates at 7/5/2.5/1W while UHF provides 6/5/2.5/1W. This granular power control allows operators to optimize coverage and battery consumption based on specific operating conditions—a feature that proves invaluable during extended field operations or emergency communications.
The 3100mAh lithium-ion battery supports this power flexibility with impressive runtime, providing up to 35 hours of operation between charges. This exceptional battery life, combined with efficient power management, creates practical operating scenarios that simply aren’t possible with shorter-duration handhelds.
Connectivity That Actually Works
One of the AT-D878UVII Plus’s most significant advantages is its integrated Bluetooth capability that actually works reliably. While many radios offer Bluetooth as an afterthought, users consistently praise the AT-D878UVII Plus for its “reliable Bluetooth integration—a feature often poorly executed in rival models.”
The Bluetooth implementation supports hands-free operation with compatible headsets or speakers, including Bluetooth PTT (Push-to-Talk) functionality. For operators who spend significant time mobile or need hands-free operation, this reliable wireless connectivity transforms the operating experience from cumbersome to genuinely practical.
GPS and APRS Integration That Adds Value
The built-in GPS capability enables location tracking and supports APRS (Automatic Packet Reporting System) transmission and reception in both analog and DMR modes. This dual-mode APRS capability is particularly valuable, allowing position reporting and messaging within established analog APRS networks while also supporting modern DMR-based tracking systems.
Users highly value “the APRS functionality with both analog and DMR TX/RX for tracking and messaging within radio networks.” This flexibility ensures the radio remains useful across different network types and emergency communication scenarios where interoperability proves critical.
Roaming Capability for Mobile Operations
The automatic and manual repeater roaming functionality addresses a real challenge for mobile operators who need seamless connectivity as they travel between coverage areas. This feature enables the radio to automatically connect to the best available repeater, ensuring continuous communications during mobile operation—a capability that transforms the radio from a local communication tool into a true mobile platform.
User Experience and Interface Design
The 1.77-inch color TFT screen provides clear information display with selectable dual or single channel views optimized for both day and night use. While not the largest display available, it effectively presents the information needed for efficient operation without overwhelming the user interface.
The programming approach using enhanced Customer Programming Software (CPS) with direct input/export capabilities for channels, digital IDs, and talk groups provides comprehensive functionality. While some users note that the software “may have a learning curve for new users,” the capabilities justify the initial complexity for operators serious about DMR operation.
Build Quality and Durability
With IP54 water and dust resistance, the AT-D878UVII Plus provides practical protection for outdoor use without the bulk of fully waterproof alternatives. The 129 × 61 × 39 mm dimensions and 282g weight (with battery and antenna) create a substantial feel that users find reassuring rather than cumbersome.
The radio uses the popular Kenwood K1 2-pin connector style for speaker/microphone accessories, ensuring broad compatibility with available accessories. The 1-watt internal loudspeaker provides clear, loud audio that performs well even in noisy environments.
Real-World Performance and User Feedback
The amateur radio community has embraced the AT-D878UVII Plus with enthusiasm that reflects its successful execution of advanced features. Users consistently highlight several key strengths:
Bluetooth Reliability: The integrated Bluetooth functionality receives universal praise for actually working reliably, unlike many competing radios where Bluetooth feels like an afterthought.
Memory and Contact Capacity: The “expansive memory and contact list capacity allow users to store extensive data, supporting complex DMR network use” without the limitations that plague simpler radios.
Battery Performance: The “large battery and efficient power management provide impressive runtime, ideal for prolonged outdoor or mobile use” that enables extended operations impossible with shorter-duration alternatives.
Audio Quality: Users typically rate “audio clarity as good, with a loud internal speaker and clear reception” that performs well across various operating conditions.
APRS Integration: The dual-mode APRS capability receives particular praise for its practical utility in both analog and digital networks.
Areas for Consideration
While the AT-D878UVII Plus excels in most areas, potential buyers should consider some limitations:
Size and Weight: Some users note that “the radio is somewhat bulky compared to ultra-compact handhelds” though most find “its feature richness worth the size.” Operators prioritizing minimal size may find it substantial.
Programming Complexity: The comprehensive CPS software, while capable, presents a learning curve that may challenge newcomers to DMR operation.
Cost: As a feature-rich radio, it commands a premium price compared to basic DMR handhelds, though most users find the capabilities justify the investment.
Competitive Analysis: Leading the Category
When comparing the AT-D878UVII Plus to its competition, its comprehensive approach becomes apparent:
Versus the BAOFENG DM32: The BAOFENG offers lower cost, USB-C charging, and basic GPS/APRS functionality but can’t match the memory capacity, Bluetooth integration, or overall refinement of the AT-D878UVII Plus.
Versus the Retevis RT95 Plus: While cheaper and rugged with basic Bluetooth and APRS support, the Retevis has a smaller display, fewer channels/contacts, and less refined user interface.
Versus the TYT MD-UV380 Plus: Similar pricing with rugged design and dual PTT, but lacking APRS support, with less integrated Bluetooth and smaller contact capacity.
Versus the older AT-D878UV: The non-Plus model costs less but lacks the crucial Bluetooth capability, has a smaller battery, and reduced memory capacity that define the Plus model’s appeal.
Versus the Yaesu VX-6R: More rugged with IP67 waterproofing but limited to analog operation with no DMR capability, smaller display, and significantly reduced memory and contact capacity.
The pattern that emerges shows the AT-D878UVII Plus as “one of the most feature-rich and user-friendly DMR handhelds in its class, with better integration of GPS, APRS, Bluetooth, and memory than many rivals.”
The Professional Amateur Radio Experience
The AT-D878UVII Plus succeeds because it recognizes that modern amateur radio operators want professional-grade capabilities without professional-grade complexity or cost. By integrating reliable Bluetooth, comprehensive APRS support, extensive memory capacity, and thoughtful power management in a durable package, it delivers an experience that feels genuinely advanced.
The radio’s roaming capabilities, dual-mode APRS support, and reliable Bluetooth integration address real operational challenges that many radios ignore. For operators who participate in complex DMR networks, travel frequently, or need reliable emergency communications, these capabilities aren’t luxuries—they’re necessities.
The Verdict: Setting the Standard for DMR Handhelds
The Anytone AT-D878UVII Plus represents what DMR handhelds should be: comprehensive, reliable, and genuinely useful for serious amateur radio operation. While it commands a premium price, it delivers premium capabilities that justify the investment for operators who want more than basic DMR functionality.
For amateur radio operators serious about digital modes, emergency communicators who need reliable tools, or anyone building a comprehensive communications capability, the AT-D878UVII Plus deserves serious consideration. It’s not just another DMR radio—it’s evidence that amateur radio equipment can be both sophisticated and accessible.
The radio proves that the future of amateur radio lies not in choosing between analog and digital, or between basic and advanced features, but in thoughtful integration of all capabilities into tools that enhance rather than complicate the amateur radio experience. For operators ready for that future, the AT-D878UVII Plus is an excellent place to start.
