Top Radar Detectors by Consumer Reviewers

From K-Band to X-band to other decisions like audible or visual alerts and extra features, buying a radar detector that actually works can sometimes be difficult, especially if you want the best protection you can get at a price you can afford. Of course, you want to be sure that the one you choose gives out less false alerts. Some models are also capable of warning you when your voltage and battery are running low. Lucky for you, although there are probably hundreds of available products, IntelliReview makes it easy to pick the top radar detector. Our patent pending formula is able to crunch data from various review websites on the Internet. By looking at reviews - good and bad - and using them as votes, we are able to put together "intelligent" lists of the best radar detectors for sale. This can be more helpful compared to other shopping sites that just allow you to sort by one or two factors. The only decisions you have to make are whether you need a laser radar detector or something that is easily concealable or if you'd want extra features and a lot of buttons and lights or something more simple. Either way, we have a selection of radar detector reviews below that will help you quickly choose one that is right for you.

Ranking Updated: May 2012
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  1. A dash-mounted radar detector is recommended if you own multiple vehicles as it allows you to quickly transfer the unit between cars. This option is more affordable but can easily be seen.
  2. An integrated detector system, on the other hand, is installed in your car, and has sensors at the front and back ends. Integrated detectors are less visible but more expensive.
  3. Most radar detectors are able to detect the common radar bandwidths being used by law enforcement, but some are able to sense laser tracking, which operates on a much narrower field than radar.
  4. Another useful addition to your radar detector is a GPS function for easy navigation.
  • Beltronics RX65 Radar Detector (X-band, K-band, Ka Band, Ku Band, Laser - VG-2 Alert, VG-2 Immunity - City, Highway - 360° Detection)

    Pros: Multi-band radar detection, 360-degree coverage, Laser detection, Rugged construction with quick-release windshield mount
    Cons: Pricey

    Review: Nothing beats the feeling of racing down the road at top speed-that is, until the police pull you over and hand you a ticket for speeding. With the help of the Beltronics RX65 Radar Detector, you can now avoid the expense and the hassle of dealing with a traffic citation, not to mention the potential risks of exceeding the speed limit. The Beltronics RX65 Radar Detector employs a 360-degree coverage area to detect the presence of different radar bands, some of which are used by law enforcement personnel to catch speeding vehicles. The RX65 detects full X, K, SuperWide Ka, and Safety Warning System radar with front and rear laser detection for added forewarning. This technology increases the distance and sensitivity with which the RX65 is able to pick up radar signals, allowing you to decrease speed even before coming within range of law enforcement radar. In turn, the RX65 emits a very low oscillation profile, shielding you and the detector from VG-2 radar scanners. Beltronics' RX65 uses an advanced Autoscan mode with digital signal processing, reducing the occurrence of false alarms that this detector picks up. While it has visual alerts that it shows on a bright 28-LED display, the RX65 likewise offers a convenient audio alert that keeps you safe by keeping your eyes on the road. Each of the different radar bands that this detector picks up has a unique audio alert assigned to it. In addition to those visual alerts, the LED display on the RX65 also shows Safety Warning System messages about upcoming risks like construction sites, hazard zones, and other information. When it comes to ease of use, the Beltronics RX65 is on top. It comes with a SmartPlug power cord that puts the control of the detector within your reach, including the ability to silence the alerts easily. The rugged metal construction of the Beltronics RX65 is enhanced by the easy way this device attaches to your windshield, courtesy of a quick release mount that enables the RX65 to be swapped around between vehicles. The Beltronics RX65 Radar Detector is an exceptional product, especially if you like to go fast. Be warned though; this device does not come cheap, as the impressive performance of the RX65 comes with a steep price tag. Then again, it is an investment that definitely pays for itself in due time.

  • Beltronics RX65Blue RX 65 Radar - Blue

    Beltronics RX65Blue RX 65 Radar - Blue

    163 Reviews

    Consumer Passion : Most passionate
    Popularity : Mildly popular
    Sonic Electronix  Price: $249.99  See It
  • Cobra XRS-9970G Radar Detector (X-band, K-band, K-band, Ka Superwide, Ku Band, Laser - VG-2 Alert, VG-2 Immunity, Spectre Alert, Spectre Immunity - City, Highway - 360° Detection)

    Pros: Accurate, Easy to use, Lifetime free updates
    Cons: Short power cord, Display is not bright enough

    Review: The Cobra XRS-9970G Radar Detector is an essential tool for safe driving and an excellent car accessory to those who want to avoid getting speeding tickets. Its Super-Xtreme Range Superheterodyne Technology with blazing-fast radar lock-on detection circuitry offers wider range and is capable of detecting POP mode radar guns, 7 radar bands including X Band, K Band, Ka Superwide, Ku Band, VG-2, Spectre I and Spectre IV+, 6 laser bands such as LTI 20-20, Ultra Lyte, ProLaser, ProLaser III, Stalker LIDAR and Speedlaser and 2 safety signals including Safety Alert and Strobe Alert. To give you further protection, it is also equipped with a GPS Locator that warns you of dangerous intersections, Speed Trap and Red Light Camera locations. This high quality radar detector features a 1.5-inch full color touchscreen display that makes set-up a snap to do and provides easy menu navigation. For personalization, you can choose from its five color schemes: Full Color, Blue, Orange, Green and Red. It also comes with a Windshield Suction Mounting Bracket and a host of other useful features like Dim Mode that allows you to dim the display, Auto Mute that enables you to mute the alert tone, IntelliView that shows both radar and laser alerts, IntelliShield False Signal Rejection, Voice Alert, SmartPower, IntelliMute Pro, Stay Set Electronic Memory, EasySet Programming Menu, Digital Signal Strength Meter, Car Battery Voltage Display or Low Car Battery Warning and IntelliScope, Digital Speedometer, Latitude/Longitude, 8-Point GPS Compass and 8-Point Electronic Compass that give you reliable information and readings using the Global Positioning System. The only thing we'd like to improve in this model is its display which is a bit hard to look at in direct sunlight and the design and length of its cable, which would be better if it were longer and straight than coiled and short. The Cobra XRS-9970G Radar Detector may be expensive but it delivers a good balance of features, performance and value in their respective classes.

  • Whistler Pro-78SE Radar Detector (K-band, Ka Superwide, X-band - City, Highway, Dim - 360° Detection)

    Pros: Inexpensive, Accurate warnings, Feature-packed, Simple display
    Cons: No GPS

    Review: The Whistler Pro-78SE offers excellent range and improved performance. It is capable of detecting all radar bands as well as laser guns and incorporates instant-on detection and VG-2 Stealth technology for maximum protection. It also features a Radar/Laser Signature ID which lessens false alerts and a Safety Warning System which alerts you of driving hazards. With its voice alerts, you won't need to look at the display. You can keep your eyes on the road and focus on driving. This full-featured detector comes with a windshield bracket, a dash pad, a hardwire kit and a straight power cord. It boasts an alpha-numeric text display which makes it easy to read and a dual Blue LED Periscope that flashes during an alert. While it doesn't have GPS, it is equipped with all the features found on basic models like a Signal Strength Indicator, Auto shut-off which saves battery life, Setting saver which retains the custom settings, Auto and Manual Muting for silent operation, Volume control for controlling the loudness of the alerts and Bright/Dim/Dark settings for adjusting the brightness of the display. Unlike other detectors, Whistler's Pro-78SE provides enhanced sensitivity with its Ka Max Mode. Its selectable bands together with its filter modes and City and Highway Modes also reduce the risk of false alarms. Needless to say, it will save you from getting tickets along the way and it provides total protection without breaking the bank.

  • Beltronics STi Driver Radar Detector (X-band, K-band, Ka Band, Laser - VG-2 Alert, Spectre Alert - City, Highway - 360? Detection)
  • Beltronics GX 65 Radar Detector (X-band, K-band, Ka Band, Ku Band, Laser - VG-2 Immunity - City, Highway - 360? Detection)

    Pros: Easy to update, Solid construction, Detects false alerts, speed traps and red light cameras
    Cons: Expensive, Doesn't include a USB cable, Some GX65 detectors require a 12V power source to update

    Review: The Beltronics Professional Series GX65, although more expensive than other radar detectors, is worth the money if you want to outsmart the cops and be notified in advance of any real alerts through all radar and laser bands and even instant-on guns. It provides wider range than lower-priced detectors and boasts a Safety Camera Database which covers numerous locations all over North America. Not only does it come with a respectable brand name, it also delivers an impressive list of features including a bright, high-definition display with brightness control, clear voice alerts, AlertLock for reduced false alarms, multiple front and rear laser sensors for total protection on all laser bands, Mark Location for remembering the location of speed traps and Variable Speed Sensitivity and SpeedCheck for keeping your speed in check. Aside from a well-written manual and a one-year limited warranty, a travel case, a coiled SmartPlug and a quick-release windshield mount are also included in the package. The GX65, unlike most models, is capable of detecting and eliminating false alerts caused by radar-based sensors. Location database updates as well as firmware updates can be done easily through the use of a Windows based computer and a USB cable. The USB cable must be bought separately, though. Early models of GX65 detectors also require an optional 12V power source in order to update so be sure to check the version before making a purchase. Updates are easily downloadable and free for three months, after which, it requires a subscription in order to continue. Radar detectors, when used properly, can save you a lot of time and money. Needless to say, the total cost of the Beltronics Professional Series GX65 plus the subscriptions and necessary accessories are undeniably costly, but well worth it, considering the expenses you'll be making without it. Adding to that, the outstanding performance and user-friendly controls lend themselves to a rather quiet and laid-back driving experience.

  • Beltronics GX 65 Radar Detector (X-band, K-band, Ka Band, Ku Band, Laser - VG-2 Immunity - City, Highway - 360° Detection)
  • Cobra XRS-9965 Radar Detector (X-band, K-band, Ka Band, Ka Superwide, Laser - Spectre Alert, VG-2 Alert)

    Pros: Advanced detection of radio and laser bands, Sleek design, Touchscreen display
    Cons: Some features need addition of separate GPS Linking device

    Review: The Cobra XRS 9965 has a look that would be more at home in the cockpit of a military plane than on top of a civilian vehicle's dashboard, but that is exactly what the device is all about: A dash-mounted radar detection system that picks up signals from radar devices commonly employed by law enforcement personnel. This radar detector reads incoming signals from 15 radio and laser frequencies at high speeds and displays the location relative to the target on its 1.5-inch full color touchscreen display. It also informs the user through a voice prompt. The digital display has a choice of 5 different color schemes to match the dashboard's backlight. It also has a dimmer mode for safer night driving. The XRS draws power from the car battery, which powers the unit down as soon as the car is turned off. Incoming emergency vehicles, as well as road hazards like rail crossings are detected in advance for the user to act beforehand. A few more features can be unlocked with the addition of a separate GPS locator unit to the side of the device. An AURA Camera and driving database subscription warns the driver beforehand of fixed-speed, red light traffic cameras, speed traps and dangerous intersections while its 8-point digital compass and digital speedometer accurately provide the vehicle's current speed, position, and direction using GPS. The Cobra XRS is fully compliant with FCC regulations and is certified lead-free. It is also made ecologically friendly with recyclable packaging.

  • Cobra XRS 9845 Digital Radar Detector (K-band, Ka Band, Ku Band, Ka Superwide, Ku Band, X-band, VG-2 - VG-2 Immunity - Dim, Highway, City - 360° Detection)
  • Cobra XRS R9G  Radar Detector w/GPS

    Cobra XRS R9G Radar Detector w/GPS

    14 Reviews

    Consumer Passion : Very passionate
    Popularity : Moderately popular
     Price: $179.95  See It
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