Radar detectors are an in-car device, like a portable GPS or dash camera, that’s specifically designed to warn you of police presence and the use of speed detection hardware. Radar guns, or the devices police use to gauge a driver’s speed at a distance, operate exclusively on specific radio waves, and radar detectors warn you of the presence of those radio waves based on proximity.

Picking a radar detector can be tough decision since they aren’t exactly cheap, and there are a lot of different models on the market. But, when it comes to radar detectors, it’s a strong case of you get what you pay for, in terms of functionality and accuracy.

Cheaper models tend to be less accurate and more prone to false readings, while more expensive and top-range radar detectors can offer directional indicators, GPS functionality, and “smart technologies” that can identify false radar signals. False signals may come from other sensory systems using similar radio wave-based detection, such as automatic sliding doors at the local supermarket, or even blind-spot detection systems on some newer vehicles. Scroll through to check our favourite radar detectors.

It might be cumbersome to try to memorise speed limits for each area you drive into. Saphe’s radar detector solves this problem by being equipped with a reliable database containing speed limit information throughout the United Kingdom, and across Europe too. It can also receive speed limit updates, and local crashes, from other users of the device on the roads. The radar detector can also give live updates and information based on GPS location, as well as alert you when you’re over-speeding. Guaranteeing the speed limit data is the device’s laser gun detection.

Why we love it:

— Sunlight readable screen — Has a built-in Bluetooth — High-quality, compact design

By pairing it with your smartphone, Saphe One’s radar detector automatically starts upon your departure via Bluetooth for a hassle-free drive. The radar allows you to become part of a large traffic community in Europe where you can gain access to the location data of about 100,000 fixed speed cameras. This device also comes with extended features to further enhance your driving safety including the detection of road accidents, roadworks ahead, or cars on the shoulder.

Why we love it:

— No subscription fee — Built-in battery lasts two years — Non-distracting alarm system

Aguri’s DX1000 radar detector features a 360-degree, super-high sensitivity to various speed traps scattered around the United Kingdom, which means you will be informed ahead of time of an area’s speed limit, so you can adjust accordingly. This device is preloaded with the latest database so you can use it straight out of the box. It’s also equipped with a dash cam, so you can record everything you need, and in high-definition 1296P too.

Why we love it:

— Easy to install and use — Modern unit design — Adjustable alerts setting

This radar detector by DriveSmart offers a wide range of options to suit each user’s preferences. It’s a given that this device can detect speed cameras, and what makes it much better is that you can adjust what over-speed alerts to receive, the warning distance relative to the speed camera location, the device’s volume, and its brightness settings. This detector is also designed to recognise only speed traps so you are spared from receiving false alarms.

Why we love it:

— Detects radar and digital speed cameras — Convenient voice and visual warnings — Comes with a dash mount

Here are some common radar detector terms you may not know:

It is very important to operate within the letter of the law, no matter where you live, and to operate your vehicle in accordance with all safety rules and regulations. If you must have radar detection, the radar detectors on this list give you several very good options to use. They offer powerful performance, ‘smart’ features, and Bluetooth connectivity. Find the one that’s best for you, and remember to drive safe!