How to Compare Radar Detectors
The police use radar technology to track the speed of moving vehicles. Many motorists, in turn, use radar detectors to track the presence of a nearby police radar. Selecting a radar detector involves a comparison of many product features. Buyers should learn the important features of detectors and use those features to compare different brands and models. They can then choose the most suitable radar detector for their needs.
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Instructions
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Determine a price range and necessary technology features. As of 2010, radar-detector prices range from less than $100 to over $500 for certain models. You may need a GPS-enabled model to detect the more modern red-light and speed-camera technologies. You should try to determine if your state or area police departments use these technologies to decide whether you need a GPS radar detector. Look to buy a detector with the most advanced features if you frequently travel in different states.
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Use the RadarTest buyer's guide to determine important features of radar detectors (see first item under References). The buyer's guide analyzes features of GPS-enabled radar detectors. However, many of the features also exist on non-GPS models. Some features add little to no value to a radar detector. For example, detection of the Ku bandwidth does not add value to a detector in the United States because police agencies do not use these frequencies. Other features can be very important for effective use against police lasers and radars. Compile a list of important features to look for when you compare radar detectors.
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Compare reliability with RadarTest radar-detector reviews (see second item under References). RadarTest conducts field tests of detectors. Many buyers consider reliability to be the most important factor in choosing a detector. RadarTest has reviews based on detector type and price ranges. You can also use these reviews to determine whether you can rely on the cheaper models of radar detectors. Make a short list of reliable radar detectors in your price range.
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Use RadarBusters to get expert and user ratings and reviews (see third item under References). Run a search or browse through the radar detectors. You can see user ratings and a link to read all the user reviews on each product page. The website also provides its own radar-detector ratings for each model.
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Use the BuyRadarDetectors side-by-side comparisons to compare features of the detectors on your short list (see Resources). Choose two detectors at a time from the drop-down menus. Do several comparisons to compile a list of additional desired features. Each comparison page lists features and prices.
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Make a buying decision based on your price range, reliability and additional features. Consider a cheaper model only if it rates well in reliability testing.
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Tips & Warnings
Use multiple sources when comparing prices. The other features do not change, but retailers often have different prices for individual models.
Check your local laws to determine the legality of using a radar detector. Some states have outlawed radar detectors for all vehicles or certain commercial vehicles.
