Everything You Need to Know About Radar Detectors

Radar detectors have evolved significantly over the years. Modern units offer GPS integration, smartphone connectivity, and advanced filtering to reduce false alerts. Here is everything you need to know before buying.

How Radar Detectors Work

Radar detectors scan for radio frequencies used by police radar guns:

X-Band: Oldest, rarely used by police today
K-Band: Common police frequency, also used by door openers
Ka-Band: Most common police radar, multiple frequencies
Laser (LIDAR): Instant speed measurement, harder to detect

Key Features to Look For

Detection Range

Longer range gives you more time to react. Premium detectors can detect signals from over a mile away.

False Alert Filtering

Modern cars have many radar-based systems (adaptive cruise, blind spot monitoring) that trigger false alerts. Look for:

GPS lockout for known false alert locations
Auto-learn technology
Signal fingerprinting

GPS Features

Red light and speed camera alerts
Speed-based auto-mute
Marked location memory

Legal Considerations

Radar detector laws vary by state and country:

Legal: Most US states for passenger vehicles
Illegal: Virginia, Washington DC, military bases
Commercial Vehicles: Illegal in all states

Top Picks for 2024

Best Overall: Escort MAX 360 MKII - $499.95
Best Value: Uniden R3 - $299.99
Best Budget: Cobra RAD 480i - $135.99