Radar detectors are in-car devices specifically designed to warn you of police presence and the use of speed detection hardware. Picking one can be a tough decision, as the cheaper models tend to be less accurate, while the ones that offer directional indicators, GPS functionality, and more can get pricey. Don’t worry, though, as we have you covered. Read on to see our favorite radar detectors.

Uniden R7 Long Range Radar Detector

Best Overall

You’ll love the Uniden R7 Long Range Radar Detector as its dual antennas tell you exactly which direction the radar signal is coming from. Its color screen shows you whether the threat is coming from ahead, from behind, or the side, and it notes which type of signal is picked up, which can make a big difference. You can see the strength of the signal, too, so you know if it’s too late or if you’ve got time to slow down.

Smart and preloaded with red light and speed camera locations, it instantly rings the alarm should your vehicle approach close to either. Moreover, it can remember and mute false alarms, meaning you don’t need to worry about the local bank’s alarm system setting it off. What’s more, is that it gets free firmware updates to guarantee that it’s always up-to-date.

Why we love it:

• With a high-grade false alert filtering system that ensures accurate readings
• It has a voice alert feature for a more focused driving experience
• It comes with a conveniently legible OLED display

Something to consider:

Use caution when installing, removing, or transporting the item as the casing is susceptible to damage.

Cobra RAD 480i Laser Radar Detector

Best Value

The Cobra RAD 480i Laser Radar Detector is equipped with all the necessary features you need to assist you when it comes to driving. Its LaserEye technology offers front and rear detection signals, so you’re sure to be protected wherever you go. In addition, its iRadar App will give you early warning signals on upcoming red lights, speed cameras, or law enforcement activities, all from a community of over three million drivers.

The radar detector comes with a hook-and-loop fastener for a firm mount on your dash. On the other hand, it also has a suction cup that you can use for a windshield mount if that will work better. Further, a 12-volt power cord is also included.

Why we love it:

• Has filtering modes to let you choose the number of notifications you’ll receive
• With a broad scope of detection paired with anti-falsing circuitry to lessen false alerts
• It gives the user better awareness of their surroundings

Something to consider:

Disconnecting the device from the windshield mount may be a bit difficult. Pressing down with some pressure may help.

Radenso XP Radar Detector

Best in Durability

For an option that will surely last a long time and accompany you for many miles, turn to the Radenso XP Radar Detector. Aside from being a tenacious choice, this radar detector will also automatically mute any speed that’s lower than the user-selected standard. Concurrently, its long range picks up radar alerts even from several miles away, letting you know in advance whether to carry on or to slow down.

It also has a reliable traffic monitor filtering system that blocks any false alerts. Moreover, it has an easily activated GPS lockout feature that allows the device to save common false alerts so you won’t need to hear them again. And, best of all,

Why we love it:

• It comes with its red light and speed camera database that will be frequently updated for free
• The voice alerts have more than 200 varied messages
• Has highway, city, and auto-city modes for different kinds of drives

Something to consider:

Only the suction cup mount comes with the package. Should you need or want a visor mount, you’ll have to purchase it separately.

Escort Max 360 Laser Radar Detector

Best Response Time

The Escort Max 360 Laser Radar Detector comes packed with nearly every feature available on a radar detector today. This includes dual antennas, directional arrows that point out threats, and smartphone compatibility to help you network with other speedsters in your area. It features a powerful digital signal processor (DSP) that uses a microchip to automatically recognize and prioritize radar bands usually used by law enforcement. This ensures that random signals from automatic doors and blind-spot detection systems won’t interrupt your commute. In addition, the Max 360 boasts a GPS-powered AutoLearn feature that cuts down on false alerts by logging frivolous emissions and ignoring them the next time you drive by.

Another thing that sets this radar detector apart from the others is community-based protection. It uses Bluetooth to link itself to smartphones, giving users access to a community-based ticket protection program called Escort Live. Escort Live is a downloadable app that notifies you of nearby alerts, red light camera locations, local speed limit data, and even your own over-speed violations.

Why we love it:

• It comes with a suction mount for a hassle-free installation
• Can detect threats accurately and quickly, giving you a sufficient amount of time to slow down
• Equipped with an extensive database of red lights and speed camera locations

Something to consider:

The mobile app may drain a phone’s battery when opened for quite some time. It’s best to immediately exit the app as soon as it’s not in use anymore. Or, for longer drives, you may need to keep your phone plugged into a power source.

It’s crucial to operate within the letter of the law, no matter where you live, and use your vehicle according to all safety rules and regulations. If you must have radar detection, then the radar detectors on this list give you several excellent options to use. They offer powerful performance, smart features, and Bluetooth connectivity. Find the one that’s best for you, and remember to drive safe.

Why doesn’t the radar detector go off when passing by highway patrolmen?

The authorities themselves need to turn their radar-emitting devices on before your detector can pick up the waves. If their device is off, then the officer won’t know precisely how fast you’re going.

Where should radar detectors be placed?

They should have breathing room to pick up radar waves correctly, so it’s best to affix them to the highest possible location within the car. Typical spots include around the middle of the rearview mirror or at the front windshield.

Some helpful tips:

Here are some standard radar detector terms you may not know:

• DSP: Short for digital signal processing, which utilizes a microchip to automatically recognize and prioritize radar bands typically used by law enforcement.
• K-Band: A standard frequency for handheld radar guns, operating between 24.05 and 24.25 gigahertz.
• Ka-Band: The most popular frequency used by cops today, generally operating between 33.4 and 36.0 gigahertz.
• Laser: To catch speeders, some police officers have made the switch from radar to laser. While expensive, laser guns are far quicker and more accurate at measuring a vehicle’s location and speed.
• Laser defuser: A technology that detects police radars and jams the signal emitted by police laser guns. Note laser jammers are illegal in some states.
• X-Band: It’s a catch-all radar band used by everything from traffic sensors to law enforcement to automatic supermarket doors. It operates from 10.5 to 10.55 gigahertz and is one of the easiest bands to detect.

About the author:

Rusty Davis has been a tech lover for as long as he can remember. From the early days of gaming consoles to the introduction of the smartphone, portable computers, and more, he’s always wanted to get his hands on the latest and greatest. He has years upon years of experience reviewing and testing everything from phone cases to smartwatches, the latest phones and tablets to gaming computers, and even desks. If it’s a piece of tech or tech-adjacent, he’s interested in how it works and who it works best for. He’s now here sharing all of his knowledge with you to help you make the best decision for yourself.

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The Digital Trends team prides itself in offering expert product recommendations in ways that everyone can understand. Our team of experts is constantly using and reviewing the latest and greatest consumer tech, smart home gadgets, televisions, and so much more to offer insights to help guide your purchasing decision. We have vigorously tested thousands of different products across these categories, and we’ve distilled our lists to bring you the best of the best. If we feel a product does not live up to our expectations, it doesn’t make the list. We are humans though, and realize that not every recommended product will be perfect for everyone, so we do our best to call out important features that may impact your choices. Below our top picks we’ve included additional product information to ensure that you are making the right choice for your unique needs. The products in this guide have been carefully curated by our team of experts and enthusiasts who understand the value and quality needed for the best options.