Long range detection and fast response time are what every driver needs to keep from getting tickets. In this post, we take you through 10 of the best radar detectors for the money in 2019 out there.
If you are reading this, it goes without saying that you want to stay on the right side of the law and not break it. Speeding, after all, is dangerous, but if it is ever to happen, having a radar detector will save you from a speeding ticket. Here you will need a device with fast response and reliable alerts.
Top Pick
Uniden R3DSP R3 Dsp
It has a built-in GPS with high radar range. Operates on 1 lithium-ion battery. Extremely light-weight and portable. Digitally processes the signal and comes with free database updates.
Check Latest PriceAfter a variety of tests and lots of research, we settled on the Escort Max 360 as our best radar detector for the money. Apart from ticking all the boxes, it offers one of the longest ranges you can get on the freeway. It’ll cost you a bit more in comparison to the other radar detectors but It’s worth. We have tested each detector at our Lab, please read all the radar detector reviews and give your valuable feedback.
Top 10 Radar Detectors for the Money
Uniden R3 Extreme Radar Laser Detector – Best Overall
Lastly, let’s take a look at Uniden R3. This here is a radar detector that claims to have a 360-degree digital signal processor.
Features
To back up its claim, the Uniden R3 packs an extremely long-range radar detector not to mention a free GPS database that can be updated with ease. The OLED color display works well even in direct sunlight and the fact that you can set your won auto-mute or speed makes it a must-have for drivers.
Performance
In the package, the Uniden R3 comes with a carry case, a cigarette adapter, and a USB jack to add to the convenience you receive. Be careful to activate the super-secret cop detector features or else you won’t receive warning when you get close to the cops.
Verdict
Overall, this Uniden radar detector is a decent device with all the necessary features to protect you from getting tickets. It boasts of a capacity to detect a variety of bands however all these features come at a steep price tag.
Pros
- Detects a variety of bands
- Reliable bright display
- Carry case included
- Decent sensitivity performance
Cons
- A bit pricey but worth it
Escort Max 360 Laser Radar Detector – Premium Pick
Escort has been in the business of making high definition radar detectors for over 4 decades. Simply put, this manufacturer has raised the bar and the Escort Max 360c with its patented anti-falsing technology not to mention 360-degree protection enables you to hear only what is important.
Features
With this product, you can use your iPhone or Android device to receive warnings of police threats around your location. You also get unique voice warnings for hands-free driving. In fact, you can easily stay ahead of threats with the ESCORT Advantage that includes pre-loaded locations that let you add your own hot spots. In case you need a backup, this device allows you to connect to your MAC or PC and download the most updated threat locations.
Performance
Driving is made safe when you don’t have to worry about buttons. Gladly, this detector comes with a clear voice alert, giving you the chance to operate your car hands-free. Most users appreciate these alerts as they help in fitting into your location comfortably. Also, with the front and rare antennas, the Escort Max 360 has unmatched detection enabling you to find threats faster and more accurately with the lightning fast focus of Digital Signal Processing.
Verdict
This is by far the best escort radar detector. It ensures you have the quietest ride and also provides seamless connectivity via Bluetooth to its Escort live app. However, we noticed that at times it might lock up with the signal display and fails to alert the user of future signals.
Pros
- Comes with clear voice alerts.
- Has a defender database.
- Comes with a premium travel case.
- Has standard, intelligent and custom filtering.
- Has a directional arrow.
Cons
- Signal display locks up hence failing to give alerts on future signals.
Beltronics V10 Laser Collector
If you want to make the best electronic investment for your car, then Beltronics V10 radar laser detector might be for you. This manufacturer has a reputation for ensuring that its radar detectors work as expected.
Features
The Beltronics V10 Laser collector comes with a programmable design that is easy to customize. The auto scan technology enables quiet performance and with a 33Mhz bandwidth, this radar detector is precisely what you need to detect faraway radars and laser signals. It also packs a digital voice alert that lets you keep your eyes on the road while making it easy to respond quickly. Sounds interesting right?
Performance
While you need a decent level of performance, you also need to be budget conscious. This radar detector fits right in place for those who need a balance of performance and affordability. You can never go wrong with the auto scan technology that comes along with the V10 laser collector. This auto scan technology ensures that you have a quiet and comfortable performance throughout your drive which is great.
Verdict
To top it all, the digital voice alert that helps keep your eyes on the road while driving is a great add-on for safe driving. Plus, the radar detector is designed to fit your own driving style. Needless to say, nothing is ever perfect. It comes with a short cord. Apart from that, it has features that support safe driving.
Pros
- Comes with a programmable design.
- Has an auto scan technology.
- Comes with digital voice alerts.
Cons
- Some complaint of a short-supplied cord.
Cobra DSP9200BT Radar Detector
Cobra manufacturers never disappoint. With the most advanced, first digital detector, this company came up with DSP 9200 BT radar detector which is affordable and helps to eliminate unwanted alerts thanks to the features that we will broadly discuss below.
Features
With this cobra radar detector, you get features such as the Auto-Mute Mode and the QuietDrive that help you get rid of false alarms. This detector comes with a powerful algorithm that keeps you one step ahead with its capacity to amount huge amounts of historical user data. Basically, the detector is able to process a lot of data to determine a threat level. With the iRadar app that comes with the package, you get real-time alerts that also include live police activity.
Performance
You might judge it by its small size, but hey, this radar has massive performance since it can detect a variety of bands, laser guns, and cameras. In fact with the iRadar app that it comes with you get to be ahead of the game no matter your region as it offers real-time alerts.
Verdict
You should expect this Cobra radar detector to have all the premium features of an expensive detector. After all, it comes at a hefty price and with a premium level of performance with revolutionary accuracy even with its small size. However, there are complaints about its suction cup appearing to be flimsy. Nevertheless, this is nothing to worry about.
Pros
- Very easy to use.
- It is affordable.
- Has big performance.
- Comes with advanced frequency display mode.
- Doesn’t go off with the sensors of the car such as Audi and GM.
Cons
- Small and weak suction cups.
Uniden DFR5 Long Range – best radar detector under $200
Uniden is among the best performing radar detector out there in the market. So, if you are looking for affordable radars, especially if you are driving on highways, then this uniden radar detector is the best for you.
Features
Just like any radar, Uniden DFR5 has a balance of incredible features. These include of all key factors such as extended range laser radar detection just to mention but a few.
Performance
With the builtin GPS feature that comes along with DFR5, you will never go wrong with that since it works great in filtering out the false alerts.
Verdict
Uniden DFR5 was top on the list back in 2015 up to 2016 but still entails almost all key factors of a decent option. Even though there are noted complaints about its window mount, If you are looking for a radar detector that is very sensitive on K and Ka-band, the Uniden DFR5 is a good choice.
Pros
- Enables easy to Read Dot Matrix Display.
- Comes with an advanced K band filter.
- Has a DC charging cable and a suction mount as well.
- Comes with an extended range Laser Radar Detection.
Cons
- Its window mounting can be problematic.
Beltronics PRO200 Laser Detector
Beltronics is a great innovator when it comes to radar detectors. If you are looking for a detector that provides eight times the sensitivity of any detector, then this is a solid choice.
Features
Just like most radars, the PRO 200 has a clear voice alert which keeps you fully informed without taking your eyes off the road. Plus, you can easily reduce the volume level thanks to the AutoMute circuitry. Its intuitive display makes it easy to read at any angle and the traffic sensor rejection works well to keep false alerts at bay.
Performance
Using the easy-to-use selectable options, you can meet your specific driving style with the PRO 200. Also, the TSR (Traffic Sense Rejection) and AutoScan reject unwanted false alerts giving you a perfect balance of sensitivity and selectivity. Here is the great news; it has a lightning fast microprocessor which delivers an alert in 500 milliseconds or less. Sounds amazing! Right?
Verdict
This Beltronics radar detector will not disappoint when it comes to overall performance. However, under some conditions, it might be difficult to stick it to your windshield.
Pros
- Comes with a clear voice alert which keeps you informed without getting your eyes off the road.
- Has AutoScan and TSR technology.
- Comes with a preset at the factory.
Cons
- Has a narrow-angle of activity.
Whistler CR90 High-Performance Laser Radar Detector for Money
If you need a laser radar detector that will help you detect all lasers in the North America region, the Whistler CR90 is a decent pick. After all, it hails from a brand that is a leader in the art of making mobile electronics and automotive detection systems.
Features
It is designed to detect Super Wideband Ka, X band, and 4 bands. It also features laser protection not to mention an advanced speed trap detection capacity capable of responding to quick bursts of radar. Its coverage is equipped up to 360 degrees and with complete perimeter protection; this device provides an easy way of detecting signals from all directions (rear, front and sides)
Performance
Performance wise, the Whistler CR90 works well to keep you informed of locations where highway safety transmitters are located. It is designed to show you the most important signal so that you only focus on what matters. Finally, thanks to its high gain lens, you get an increased field of view for longer range detection.
Verdict
Well, to be honest, even though the Whistler CR90 has a decent level of performance, it has some shortcoming, especially when compared to the XTR-435. First of all, even though the unit is quite accurate, the display light might disappoint as it is not that bright in the sun. Furthermore, when you leave it on default it might set off some false alarms.
Pros
- Covers 360 degrees of perimeter protection
- Comes with a traffic flow signal rejection
- Capable of detecting all modern laser guns
- Features a safety warning system
Cons
- Some users complain about the display light
- Its default settings can set off false alarms
Beltronics RX65-Red Professional Series Radar Detector
Beltronics is known for making excellent radar detectors. Its detection systems provide stealth defense performance that keeps you invisible against any type of radar detector while offering a fast response time.
Features
With the Beltronics RX65, you get ultra long detection that includes a digital voice alert not to mention an integrated Laser Pro 905 that blocks out lasers. It offers the detection of SuperWide, Full X and K bandwidths plus you get to enjoy a shadow technology that makes it invisible to law enforcement agents. With its bright LED display, you get reliable visual alerts that show signal strength so that you precisely how to respond.
Performance
The Beltronics RX65 is one of the easiest radar detectors to use out there. It comes with a tech display that easily shows you the metric radar frequency no matter the radar signal you are detecting. The rugged design gives you great levels of control with a SmartPlug power cord included. In fact, the device is designed to let you easily program bands so that it fits into your region conveniently.
Verdict
When it all said and done, most users will prefer a radar detector that keeps them invisible from the authorities. Well, that is precisely what the Beltronics RX65 is designed to do. This device is easy to program and with a one-year limited warranty, you can be sure of reliable performance no matter your region. When it comes to price, it is one of the best radar detector for the money.
Pros
- Easily programmable
- Immune to law enforcement detectors
- Superior detection
- 1-year warranty
- Windshield mount included
Cons
- In some areas, it does not provide enough warning distance
Cobra XRS9370 High-Performance Radar/Laser Detector
Apart from its high performance, the Cobra XRS9370 comes with sweep circuitry for long range and fast warning. It can detect 14 radar bands which is great.
Features
In its compact design, it comes with a ready cord, a mounting bracket, an electrical cable, and a suction cup. With its VG-2 and Spectre Alert, you will get an alert whenever you are under surveillance and with that comes an advanced warning for fast response. The detector is able to detect KU bands that are popular in Europe and soon to hit the US. Furthermore, the overall 14 bands provide extra detection range which is great
Performance
The fact that this unit comes ready with all the mounting gear makes it quite convenient. It is one of the most affordable options on our list yet it features a “voice” features to give you hands-free operation.
Verdict
The Cobra XRS9370 is a decent radar detector the only downfall is that it does not come with 360-degree radar protection. Plus its display is not the brightest in direct sunlight. However, it works well for users looking for an easy and affordable solution.
Pros
- Comes with the necessary mounting gear
- Budget-friendly price
- Reliable alerts
- Detects up to 14 laser bands
Cons
- Accuracy could be better
Escort Solo S4 Radar Detector
For a long time, Escort has held strong to its reputation for quality radar detectors. The Escort Solo S4 is certainly no exception. It is designed to give you long-range protection from all radar and laser guns including X-band, K Band, and Superwide Ka-band.
Features
The Escort Solo S4 is built for superb performance with its cordless convenience. Yes the entire unit is easily portable and all you have to do is place it on the dashboard or windshield of your car and you are ready to get started. The OLED display is reliable the E-Z programmable design works great even if it’s your first time using it.
Performance
With statistics showing over 20 percent of drivers getting tickets each year, getting a radar detector is quickly becoming a necessity for most car owners. if you travel a lot, or mostly use rental cars, getting the Escort Solo S4 will be a plus. The reason is simple, its cordless convenience makes it ideal for travel and its ease of use makes it easily compatible with any car and in any region.
Verdict
Well, the Solo S4 is a must have for those drivers looking to avoid getting more tickets in their region. The device offers a high-resolution display and a cordless convenience that is reliable. The only problem is that even with its fast performance, it does not come with voice alerts for hands-free operation.
Pros
- Comes with cordless freedom
- Fast and reliable protection
- Up to 9 customizable features
- Easy to mount on the dashboard
Cons
- Does not come with voice alerts
How To Properly Use Your Radar Detector To Enhance Safe Driving?
Conclusion
So there you have it. If you are on a tight budget we recommend you go with the Cobra XRS9370. It comes at a fairly affordable price with all the features for a reliable detector. AS mentioned above our top pick, the Escort Max 360 stands out from the pack but also coming pretty close is the Beltronics V10 which provides a nearly similar level of convenience.
