What’s New in Radar Tech This Year

When it comes to radar detectors, 2025 is marked by enhancements in core technologies rather than radical new devices. Think about how far these devices have advanced in just a few short years, with GPS location data, crowd-sourced alerts, and adaptive filtering. This year, buyers can expect improvements in sensitivity and range, especially on the Ka band. At the same time, updated filtering reduces the false alerts triggered by the advanced safety systems in modern vehicles.

In addition, more models are introducing Wi-Fi capabilities for over-the-air updates to firmware and GPS databases that store red-light and speed camera information. This feature isn’t a game-changer but improves convenience by allowing the detector to stay current without connecting to a computer.

Another ongoing issue is laser detection, due to the narrowness of a LIDAR beam. As a result, radar detector manufacturers have been making incremental gains in sensor speeds and signal processing, enabling newer units to provide quicker reaction times. Machine-learning-based filtering is also improving, letting detectors “learn” which signals are harmless based on location and driving patterns.

Our Top 5 Radar Detectors

Here are our top picks at a glance, followed by a more detailed review.

Valentine V1 Gen2

The directional alert arrows from the original Valentine unit are still front and center with the Gen2 edition. The company has added technology to improve Ka-band sensitivity and false alert filtering. Users can take advantage of Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone-based configuration and access to community-shared alerts. Valentine has also incorporated a module design with the V1 Gen2, making future software upgrades and potential hardware changes convenient. Users give this unit high marks for its long-range warnings and no-brainer approach to showing where a threat is located. On the downside, the alert signals can take time to master. Regardless, the Valentine V1 Gen2 is a dependable choice, especially for drivers preferring radar detectors with laser detection.

Escort Redline 360c

Escort’s Redline 360c’s premium price comes from numerous advanced standard features like front and rear antennas for 360-degree radar coverage. It also has GPS filtering to reduce false alerts and automatic speed-based sensitivity. Meanwhile, the Escort Live app enables users to share and receive real-time enforcement alerts, review enforcement history, and identify speed camera locations. Built-in Wi-Fi provides over-the-air updates, eliminating the need for a computer connection. If ever there was truth in the adage “You get what you pay for,” the Escort Redline 360C proves it. It’s a solid device with wide coverage and a strong detection range.

Uniden R7

We’ll be the first to say that the Uniden R8 is a top-notch detector, but adding another flagship unit to this list seemed counterproductive. Instead, we opted for the Uniden R7, a great mid-range device with notable features. The R7’s technology includes dual antennas for long-range detection, directional arrows, an OLED display, and GPS-based signal muting. Users can also create lockouts for frequent locations with false alerts, and the detailed menu provides enough customization options without overwhelming novice users. The greatest trade-off with the R7 is that updates are handled through a USB interface.

Cobra RAD 700i

You don’t have to spend significant money to enjoy good radar protection. The Cobra RAD 700i is ideal for a first-time device or for a vehicle that’s being driven less. Users still benefit from improved false alert filtering, enhanced detection range (although not as far-reaching as pricier detectors), and a full-color display. The Bluetooth-based Drive Smarter app is an unexpected feature that provides access to real-time enforcement data, speed camera alerts, and firmware updates. Meanwhile, GPS-based muting keeps repetitive alerts from fixed sources to a minimum, and voice notifications avoid distractions.

Radenso XP

The Radenso XP shares many of the same cost advantages of the Cobra RAD 700i, and given the matching prices, we’d be challenged to choose between the two. This budget-friendly pick has GPS signal lockouts, speed-based muting (at lower speeds), and an OLED display. The SP’s secret weapon is a built-in red-light and speed-camera database with lifetime updates. You’ll just need to remember to connect the device to a computer via USB to ensure this information is current.

Laser vs Radar: What You Need to Know

Staying ahead of speed enforcement requires understanding the differences in detection systems.

Ideally, you want a detector that can handle both detection systems, which is standard in most capable units.

How to Mount Radar Detectors Discreetly

While mounting a radar detector on the windshield is common, it may not be the best approach. Not only is windshield mounting illegal (of any device) in some states, but a suction-cup system can lead to device instability, affecting performance. In addition, prominently positioning your radar detector can draw unwanted attention from law enforcement and would-be thieves.

SUPERMOUNTS is a mirror-based platform that solves many of these issues by securing the detector in a higher and centered position while providing stability. Importantly, SUPERMOUNTS is engineered for specific vehicles to enable a factory-like installation that doesn’t interfere with visibility or vehicle controls.

Read: Radar Detector 101: Best Practices for Mounting and Using Detectors in High-Performance Cars

Are Radar Detectors Legal in Your State?

Radar detectors are banned explicitly in Virginia and Washington, DC. In addition, federal law also prohibits radar detectors in commercial vehicles over 10,000 pounds, and they’re not allowed on military bases. You may want to research what other states (such as California, Florida, New York, and Texas) have to say on the matter. Keep in mind that regulations change, so before buying a radar detector, check with local law enforcement or your state’s transportation department to confirm the latest rules on these devices.

SUPERMOUNTS: Designed for Your Devices

Whether you drive with a radar detector or hit the track with an action camera, the SUPERMOUNTS system is engineered to mount your device securely and safely. Explore your options at the RoadSpy store or connect with the RoadSpy customer support team for help.

Read the RoadSpy Blog to learn more about track day preparations, the best performance cars on a budget, and other insightful topics.