Objective  To compare the biomechanical properties of distal radius fracture by volar or dorsal plate fixation.And provide theoretical basis for the strategy of treatment for the distal radius fracture.Methods  The unstable type of fracture were established in 10 distal radius specimens.The specimens were randomly assigned to volar or dorsal plate fixation groups (n＝5 in each group).Biomechanical testings were conducted in these specimens after plate fixation.Results  a) In the dorsal displacement type of distal radius fracture，there was no significant difference between volar and dorsal plate fixation groups in stress intensity，axial rigidity or shearing rigidity (P＞0.05).b) No significant difference was found in the torque or torsional rigidity between the volar and dorsal plate fixation groups (P＞0.05).c) In the axial stress testings，no significant difference was found in the ultimate strength of absorbed energy by bone between the two groups (P＞0.05).d) The present results were only 6% different from the theoretical analysis of combined rod stress，which proved the validity of the present experimental stress results.Conclusion  In the dorsal displacement type of distal radius fracture，the biomechanical properties were similar between the volar and dorsal plate fixation groups.Although dorsal plate fixation resulted in better outcomes，there were no significant differences between the two groups.In clinical practice，however，it is easier，more convenient，more practical and more effective to use the volar plate fixation.