The Best Radar Detectors

A radar detector allows you to always know when radar enforcement is nearby, giving you peace of mind that you can adjust your driving and avoid getting a ticket before you’re even in view of law enforcement.

Finding the best radar detector for your vehicle means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available styles and configurations. With the right radar detector, you’ll always know when radar enforcement is nearby.

We reviewed dozens of radar detectors to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated radar detectors drivers can purchase to ensure they always know when radar enforcement is nearby.

Best Radar Detector Overall
Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector
Industry leading performance with advanced false alert filtering.

We’ve identified Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector as the best radar detector out there. With industry-leading performance and advanced false alert filtering, this radar detector is one that will keep your driving experience in tip-top shape. These benefits allow drivers to know when radar enforcement is nearby, so they can adjust their driving style appropriately.

The 5 Top-Rated Radar Detectors

Editor's PicksBrandRating
Best Radar Detector OverallUniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector4.5
Best Corded Radar DetectorUniden DFR7 Super Long Range Wide Band Laser/Radar Detector4.4
Best Budget Radar DetectorEscort Passport S55 Radar Detector4.1
Best 360-Degree Radar DetectorEscort MAX360 Laser Radar Detector4.2
Best Extended Range Radar DetectorUniden R7 Extreme Long Range Radar Detector4.6

*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change

Best Radar Detector Overall: Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector

The Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector took the top spot on our list of the best radar detectors and boasts industry-leading performance and advanced false alert filtering. It features internal GPS technology which allows you to mark hot spots for reminders next time you’re in the area. It also allows you to mute common false alerts such as retail store automatic doors or vehicle blind spots, in order to avoid recurring false alarms. It comes preloaded with red light and speed camera locations, with access to free updates to ensure it is never out of date.

Those who purchased and reviewed this radar detector appreciated that it was easy to install and said they were “very impressed” with its range. People also like the “dark mode” display which “makes it that less visible” to law enforcement. They also liked the durable mount and muting feature.

With a price tag of about $300, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has excellent ratings with thousands of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing drivers to make the investment.

Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector Key Features:

  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included
  • Multi-color OLED display
  • Voice alerts for hands-free operation

Best Corded Radar Detector: Uniden DFR7 Super Long Range Wide Band Laser/Radar Detector

Best Corded Radar Detector
Uniden DFR7 Super Long Range Wide Band Laser/Radar Detector
Wide band protection from all radar and laser guns.

The Uniden DFR7 Super Long Range Wide Band Laser/Radar Detector took the runner-up spot on our list of the best radar detectors. It offers wide band protection from all types of radar and laser guns and features advanced filtering to help cut down on false alerts. It comes preloaded with red light and speed camera locations, with access to free updates to ensure it is never out of date. It also offers the ability to mute common false alerts for added convenience.

Those who purchased and reviewed this radar detector appreciated that it offered the ability to mute false alerts, and was easy to set up. One user commented that it offered, “Great filtering, yet keeping the range with sensitivity.” Most people were impressed with the range on this unit, saying, “This thing sees around buildings, trees, traffic, and way before you see the cop.”

At a cost of around $170, it’s not outrageously expensive but is still a bit of an investment. That said, the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing drivers to make the investment.

Uniden DFR7 Super Long Range Wide Band Laser/Radar Detector Key Features:

  • Voice alerts for hands-free operation
  • Mounting kit and power cord included
  • Easy-to-read OLED display

Best Budget Radar Detector: Escort Passport S55 Radar Detector

Best Budget Radar Detector
Escort Passport S55 Radar Detector
A budget-friendly option with a sleek and simple design.

The Escort Passport S55 Radar Detector is an excellent choice for those looking for a radar detector that won’t break the bank. It boasts a long-range warning on all radar and laser bands, including long-range K and Ka-band radar performance. It can also detect instant-on POP radar technology. Its auto-sensitivity feature intelligently filters out false alarms, and there is a selection of three other settings.

Those who purchased and reviewed this radar detector appreciated that it was easy to install, and felt that the construction was of a quality nature. People were impressed by the range of this unit, with one reviewer saying, “I’m extremely impressed for the price how great the range is on this passport.” Some people found it picked up retail automatic doors a bit too much but said the auto-mute function helped with this issue.

With a cost of approximately $129, this radar detector is a solid choice for those looking for a radar detector option on a budget. It has great ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing drivers that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at detecting radar guns as its more expensive counterparts.

Escort Passport S55 Radar Detector Key Features:

  • Compatible with Escort Live app
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included
  • Provides audible and visual alerts

Best 360-Degree Radar Detector: Escort MAX360 Laser Radar Detector

Best 360-Degree Radar Detector
Escort MAX360 Laser Radar Detector
Forward and rear-facing antennas pinpoint threats around the entire vehicle.

The Escort MAX360 Laser Radar Detector is an excellent choice for those looking for a radar detector to keep them protected from all angles. It is available with or without a dashcam for added flexibility and safety. It can be customized to your driving style and comes complete with IVT filtering, and auto-sensitivity to help cut down on false alerts. Forward and rear-facing antennas detect threats, and alert you to the direction via on-screen arrows.

Those who purchased and reviewed this radar detector appreciated that the mounting system was easy to install and quite secure, and found this detector to be very accurate. People also liked the false alert filters and visual alerts, with one reviewer saying, “The unit does an amazing job filtering false K band BSM alerts which is important these days. The arrows are key to know if the threat is behind or in front of so you can adjust as needed.” Some people found the unit to be rather large, but it offers a lot of functionality for the size.

With a price tag of about $500, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has very good ratings with hundreds of people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing drivers to make the investment.

Escort MAX360 Laser Radar Detector Key Features:

  • Compatible with Escort Live app
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included
  • True digital signal processing (DSP) provides fastest response rate

Best Extended Range Radar Detector: Uniden R7 Extreme Long Range Radar Detector

Best Extended Range Radar Detector
Uniden R7 Extreme Long Range Radar Detector
Built-in GPS marks geographical points where you may typically encounter radar alerts.

The Uniden R7 Extreme Long Range Radar Detector is a solid pick for people who want a radar detector with extended range. It comes complete with dual antennas and directional arrows in order to detect threats all around the vehicle and alerts you to their direction via the large, multi-color OLED display. It comes preloaded with red light and speed camera locations, with access to free updates to ensure it is never out of date.

Those who purchased and reviewed this radar detector appreciated that it was easy to install and set up, and offered excellent accuracy. One user commented that “Just the directional arrows alone make it so much better because now I’m not looking around to see where the cop might be.” Several people mentioned that the firmware will need updating before first use, which is a common thing with many electronics these days.

At a cost of around $430, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has really good ratings from hundreds of people who’ve reviewed it, which we think goes a long way in convincing drivers to make the investment.

Uniden R7 Extreme Long Range Radar Detector Key Features:

  • Displays up to four signal simultaneously
  • Voice alerts for hands-free operation
  • Internal GPS to mute common false alerts

Who Should Buy a Radar Detector

A radar detector is an ideal choice for those looking for peace of mind while driving. Today’s radar detectors combine smart design with many of the latest technologies including Bluetooth, GPS, and smartphone integration in order to provide affordable, convenient protection against speeding tickets and driving hazards.

Additionally, a radar detector is also a good choice for those who do a lot of driving and want to ensure they stay on the right side of the law. They can alert you to police radar within your area so that you are aware of your driving and take any steps to correct yourself, if necessary.

Finally, some people find that radar detectors are a handy tool to keep them from speeding. Many of today’s models provide an alert to the driver when they are over the recommended speed limit, which can prompt them to slow down if they weren’t aware of their speed.

And if you’re looking for information on other vehicle accessories, such as finding the best OBD2 scanners, the best tires, the best alarm systems, or the best dash cams, we have in-depth guides that can help make it easier.

Best Radar Detector Overall
Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector
Industry leading performance with advanced false alert filtering

Important Features to Consider

Not all radar detectors are created equal. A radar detector should be easy to install and offer excellent alerts without too many false alarms. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best radar detector for your vehicle:

  • Type. One of the more practical considerations when buying the best radar detector for your vehicle is the type. There are three main types of radar detectors: corded, cordless, and remote-mount. Corded radar detectors usually mount on the windshield or dashboard of your vehicle, plugging into the cigarette lighter. They offer the best range. Cordless radar detectors can easily move between vehicles and offer a cleaner-looking installation. Remote-mount radar detectors are permanently mounted to the vehicle for a clean, undetectable installation.
  • Bands. The Federal Communications Commission mandates that police radar must operate on specific frequency bands: X-band, K-band, Ka-band, Ka wide-band, and Ka super wide-band. Look for a radar detector that can detect all these bands for the best coverage and protection.
  • Lasers. A radar detector will have at least one laser sensor, which will detect threats ahead of you. For 360-degree protection, look for a radar detector with two laser sensors. They will be more expensive than basic models but offer more protection.
  • Sensitivity and selectivity. The ability to adjust the sensitivity of your radar detector will be helpful in preventing false alerts. Most models have a choice of “highway” or “city” mode. The city will decrease the range for fewer false alarms. A radar detector with high selectivity can differentiate between the different brands of radar and laser for even more accurate reporting. Most detectors with this feature will display the signal type and strength on the display.
  • Alerts. While most radar detectors offer an audible alert, upgraded models can provide voice and/or visual alerts. This way, you don’t need to take your eyes off the road to check the alert.
  • Radar detector detection. In areas where radar detectors are illegal, police make use of radar detector detection (RDD) technology. Many radar detector manufacturers now have models that will shut down when they detect an RDD system in use.
  • Bluetooth/smartphone compatibility. A radar detector with Bluetooth/smartphone connectivity allows users to mark known enforcement areas in real-time in order to alert other drivers.
  • GPS. A radar detector with GPS is handy, as it can calculate where you are and how fast you’re going at any given time. Using this info, it can adjust its sensitivity in order to help cut down on false alerts. It is also helpful for marking areas where you frequently encounter false alarms, such as from automatic retail doors. You can also download frequent enforcement areas or known camera locations for added convenience.
  • Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a radar detector. Radar detectors vary in price from $25-$500 or more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a radar detector and how does it work?

A radar detector is an electronic accessory that is installed in a vehicle in order to provide alerts to nearby radar detector technologies. A radar detector works by emitting a radio wave, which bounces off objects in its path in order to determine your speed. Radar detectors also act as a radio receiver, identifying radar devices (such as radar guns used by police) based on the radio waves they emit. Some radar detectors can also identify the presence of laser-speed guns, which traditional radar detectors may miss.

Do radar detectors work anymore?

Yes, radar detectors still work. Even with changes and updates to police radar technology, there are many manufacturers who are updating their units in order to be compatible with these technologies. Using a radar detector combined with a real-time alert software such as Waze or Escort Live will improve its accuracy and usefulness. Finally, keep in mind that many radar detectors are sensitive to not only police radar signals, but those emitted by vehicle blind spot sensors and automatic retail doors. This means there is a higher chance of false alerts, but many models have the ability to program frequent false alerts so they don’t go off.

Can police tell if you have a radar detector?

Because a radar detector needs to be mounted in your vehicle with an unobstructed view in order to work properly, police will likely be able to tell if you have a radar detector installed in your vehicle. Some police make use of radar detector detection (RDD) technology, which alerts them to the presence of nearby radar detectors.

Can you get a ticket for using a radar detector?

Depending on where you are driving, you may get a ticket for using a radar detector. Radar detectors are legal in most states, with a few exceptions. Radar detectors are illegal in Washington, D.C, and in Virginia, you will be ticketed and possibly have your device confiscated if you’re caught using it. In California and Minnesota, you can use a radar detector, but it cannot be mounted on the inside of the windshield. In Illinois, New Jersey, and New York, radar detectors are legal in all private vehicles, but not commercial or public vehicles. Federal laws also prohibit the use of radar detectors in commercial vehicles exceeding 10,000 pounds.

Other Radar Detectors We Reviewed

Best Radar Detector Overall
Uniden R3 Extreme Long Range Laser/Radar Detector
Industry leading performance with advanced false alert filtering

We looked at 20 other radar detectors. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best radar detectors list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your vehicle. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.

360-Degree Radar Detector

HoomDirect Radar Detector

HoomDirect Radar Detector

This 360-degree radar detector boasts an audible alert that lets you know when you’re approaching a radar device anywhere from 200-1,000m ahead.

Key Features:

  • Easy to install
  • Approximately 90% accuracy
  • Includes an anti-slip mat and car charger

Cost: $27

Whistler CR93 High Performance Laser Radar Detector

Whistler CR93 High Performance Laser Radar Detector

This 360-degree radar detector boasts the ability to detect any radar gun currently in use and features real voice alerts in both English and Spanish.

Key Features:

  • Choice of 6 filter modes
  • Internal GPS
  • Mounting kit and power cord included

Cost: $146

HoomDirect Radar Detectors with LED Display

HoomDirect Radar Detectors with LED Display

This 360-degree radar detector boasts the ability to detect any mobile speed monitor device anywhere from 250-2,500m ahead and virtually eliminates false alerts.

Key Features:

  • Shutdown feature
  • Internal GPS
  • Includes an anti-slip mat and car charger

Cost: $24

Whistler CR65 Laser Radar Detector

Whistler CR65 Laser Radar Detector

This 360-degree radar detector boasts the ability to detect signals from all angles, against all radar gun types. The traffic flow signal rejection technology helps eliminate false alerts.

Key Features:

  • Mounting kit and power cord included
  • Flashing LED for visual notification
  • Choice of three modes

Cost: $52

MASO New Car Speed Radar Detector

MASO New Car Speed Radar Detector

This 360-degree radar detector boasts the ability to accurately detect any stable or mobile radial speed monitor anywhere from 250-2,500m ahead.

Key Features:

  • Digital signal strength indicator
  • Automatic mute system
  • Includes an anti-slip mat and car charger

Cost: $18

Whistler 5050EX High Performance Laser Radar Detector

Whistler 5050EX High Performance Laser Radar Detector

This 360-degree radar detector boasts real voice alerts that notify you of your proximity to all of the latest radar guns in use today.

Key Features:

  • Blue OLED text display
  • Internal GPS
  • Four filters help eliminate false alarms

Cost: $101

Cordless Radar Detector

Escort Solo S4 Radar Detector

Escort Solo S4 Radar Detector

This cordless radar detector boasts an easy to read OLED display and comes complete with a selection of 9 user-programmable features to customize the device to your driving style.

Key Features:

  • Stored settings for ease of use
  • Warns against all radar bands
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Cost: $200

Extended Range Radar Detector

Escort Passport 8500 X50 Radar Detector

Escort Passport 8500 X50 Radar Detector

This extended range radar detector boasts the ability to automatically adjust sensitivity while in the city or on the highway in order to help eliminate false alerts.

Key Features:

  • Audible alerts
  • Mounting kit and power cord included
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Cost: $181

Uniden Uniden R1 Extreme Long Range Radar Laser Detector

Uniden Uniden R1 Extreme Long Range Radar Laser Detector

This extended range radar detector offers 360-degree protection and provides real voice alerts against the latest radar technologies. It offers band segmentation and filtering to cut down on false alerts.

Key Features:

  • Internal GPS
  • Available in a choice of two colors
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included

Cost: $190

Escort IXC Laser Radar Detector

Escort IXC Laser Radar Detector

This extended range radar detector boasts WiFi connectivity in order to be compatible with connected cars. This allows for real-time, user-generated alerts.

Key Features:

  • Customize to your driving style
  • Clear voice alerts
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included

Cost: $450

Uniden DFR1 Long Range Laser and Radar Detection

Uniden DFR1 Long Range Laser and Radar Detection

This extended range radar detector boasts signal strength meter bars combined with an easy-to-read icon display for protection against the latest radar technologies.

Key Features:

  • Mounting kit and power cord included
  • 360-degree protection
  • Advanced K band filter

Cost: $47

Bluetooth Compatible Radar Detector

ESCORT IX Laser Radar Detector

ESCORT IX Laser Radar Detector

This Bluetooth compatible radar detector boasts IVT filtering and automatic sensitivity adjustments to help prevent false alerts and allows for hands-free operation thanks to voice alerts.

Key Features:

  • Internal GPS
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included
  • Multi-color OLED display

Cost: $450

Cobra Road Scout Dash Cam and Radar Detector

Cobra Road Scout Dash Cam and Radar Detector

This Bluetooth compatible radar detector boasts a unique 2-in-1 design that functions as both a radar detector and dashcam recorder. It is compatible with the iRadar app for real-time alerts and updates.

Key Features:

  • Full 1080p video
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included
  • Internal GPS

Cost: $450

Cobra RAD 480i Laser Radar Detector

Cobra RAD 480i Laser Radar Detector

This Bluetooth compatible radar detector boasts front and rear sensors for improved detection and comes complete with a mounting kit and power cord.

Key Features:

  • Compatible with the iRadar app
  • Next-generation updateable IVT Filter
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Cost: $150

Radar Detector with GPS

Radenso XP Radar Detector with GPS 

Radenso XP Radar Detector with GPS 

This radar detector with GPS boasts the ability to alert you to danger several miles away and features integrated safety features to help prevent false alarms.

Key Features:

  • Low-speed muting
  • Mounting kit and power cord included
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Cost: $250

Escort Passport S75 Radar Detector with GPS with Auto Lock

Escort Passport S75 Radar Detector with GPS with Auto Lock

This radar detector with GPS boasts all-band protection and multiple laser sensors to provide increased protection. It comes pre-loaded with several hot spots and offers the ability to add your own.

Key Features:

  • High-resolution display
  • Web-ready for ease of updates
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Cost: $390

Radenso Pro M Radar Detector with GPS

Radenso Pro M Radar Detector with GPS

This radar detector with GPS boasts a range of several miles and analyzes the DNA of radar signatures in order to filter out most false alerts.

Key Features:

  • Includes a 1-year warranty
  • Low-speed muting
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included

Cost: $450

ESCORT MAX II – Radar Laser Detector

ESCORT MAX II - Radar Laser Detector

This radar detector with GPS boasts a patented technology that helps to cut down on false alerts. It comes pre-loaded with several hot spots and offers the ability to add your own.

Key Features:

  • Clear voice alerts
  • Bluetooth-equipped for access to Escort Live app
  • Multi-color OLED display

Cost: $280

K40 RLS2 Portable Radar/Laser Detector with GPS

K40 RLS2 Portable Radar/Laser Detector with GPS

This radar detector with GPS boasts an adjustable display and comes complete with a fully-adjustable windshield mounting bracket and two power cords for hardwired or plugged-in use.

Key Features:

  • Low-speed muting
  • Intelligent K-Band filter
  • Audible and visual warnings

Cost: $400

Uniden DFR9 Super Long Range Laser and Radar Detection

Uniden DFR9 Super Long Range Laser and Radar Detection

This radar detector with GPS boasts voice alerts for both red light cameras and speed cameras and comes complete with an ultra-bright color OLED display.

Key Features:

  • Max speed warning
  • Upgradeable firmware
  • Mounting kit, travel case, and power cord included

Cost: $263