I bought the Uniden R8 after watching a few of your videos. Detector arrived in the evening, so I got it hooked up and connected to R8 companion for my drive to work the next morning. Within the first block of leaving my neighbor hood there was a bogey lurking behind some shrubs before I could even make it to the first intersection. I was a little worried I wouldn't get to see a real signal for a while but it was literally the first signal identified on my R8!
I've been running a Uniden LRD detector for 10 years now (can't even remember what model, but it was the top of the line at the time) - I'm not really a speeder, I just like to know when cops are around as the police here have focused more and more on drivers doing just a fraction above the limit in recent decades instead of focusing on the real issues. It's never let me down - in 10 years I've only been pulled over once and that was because the cop was using instant on (I was doing 4km/h over the 100km/h speed limit on a dead quiet country road - so that's how bad it has got here - ridiculous $30 fine and 10 demerit points as well as an even more ridiculous lecture from the cop). Watching this video as I wondered if it was worth upgrading after a decade, I definitely think I might invest in the R8 too. Falsing has never been a problem for me, I have disabled the K band as the cops exclusively use KA band here - and speed cameras are mostly fixed, either that or you can spot them miles away as they always use the same vans.
I ran 4000 miles to California and back in my charger 🔌, used a v1g2 with jbv1, protected me against every encounter, I had plenty of time to slow down to psl and also awareness of a cop moving around, which I encountered in Louisiana against a lidar strike. My car will go from zero to prison time in just a few seconds, so it's important to have a quality RD when alot is at stake.
Nice setup man, I own an 04 Jaguar XJR and while she might not be quite as fast as your 392, she gets around 4.5 seconds to 60 Is the JBV1 a laser jammer or laser detector?
Been running the Uniden DFR7 since 2017 for my daily driver and its been a outstanding radar detector paired with Waze for the highway or rural driving. Just updated the firmware to 1.12 and database files today. I plan to purchase a sports car for 2024 and will be taking some road trips. I plan to purchase the Uniden R4, when the price drops back down to $300. All purchases, configurations, and pick for radars has come from Vortex channel. The Uniden detector has saved me numerous times from passing or making a minor mistake over the years that could have cost me thousands in insurance fees and fines. Thank you Vortex!
Long time v1 user, just got a g2, v1 g1 has saved me many times and the sounds a v1 makes it’s always clear when it’s a serious threat. The updates via BT and the supporting apps available made me stay loyal to the brand.
I still use my original Redline combined with Waze; drive 14 miles over the speed limit (79 in a 65) and have yet to get a ticket. The original Redline still has the range to get the job done. My only concern is Lidar which unfortunately none of the detectors protect you with. Waze has saved me twice re. Lidar, other than that the Redline always gets the job done and it is 15 years old. not in a hurry to switch it out. waiting on Theia LOLOLOL.😂
Bro, this is the most important question in the entire comment section and no facking answers.... I asked same thing just few min ago and then scrolled down later to read this with no answer and it was posted 7 months ago.
@@rajsteint6487 valentine one is the answer. Look at a bunch of videos and that’s the highest ranking one. I had the old one and it’s fantastic just sent off for the new one Make sure you buy it from them $598. If you buy it from someone else secondary sales it’s $800 with NO warranty. You don’t have to buy a new one every year, just send in your current one and for $50 or something they’ll upgrade it and send it back. With the JBM app it’s completely unbeatable
Great reviews Vortex. Running R7 with customized setting in expert mode and is very quiet. Tried all but still coming back for the R7. Radar detector users also need to know how police radar works and their limitations. Knowing their limitations adds protection to yourself. Also understand that radar detectors have their own limits too and seasoned LEO knows how to defeat radar detectors as well. Having a high end radar detector, a good knowledge, understanding of how police radar works, having good situatioan awareness and a rabbit will reduce chances of getting caught. NEVER DEPEND of your radar detector alone even if it is considered THE BEST. It is a false sense of security.
Thank you for all your hardwork. I just bought an R8 uniden because of your reviews and its already saved me so many times here in NY from state troppers
I marvel how incredibly detailed you are. My display on my DFR7 went out, and so I thought it was time for an upgrade anyway. (DFR7 went to girlfriend. We have a LD relationship now, so even more necessary for detectors). I have had detectors since the late 80s, starting with an Escort. I decided the R3 is definitely sufficient, since I need to have my eyes on the road more than I do fiddling with my phone (in a cradle where you keep yours). The upgrade from the DFR7 is totally worth it. The filtering is fantastic and the range is almost too good!! (Now I have to slow down a mile sooner!). Long story short, thank you for doing the best reviews of almost any product I've ever seen. I hope you make a lot of money doing this. You deserve it.
I really hope M. Valentine watches this and has a software update in the works that addresses some of your issues with the V1G2. Thanks for the excellent video.
The issues are pretty well known now and they’re definitely aware of them. Some things like Ka band issues they’ve been slowly releasing updates for. K band performance has been a known issue for years.
Started with a $80 cobra with a tons of false alerts Got a Uniden R3 and it saved me so many times. It basically paid for itself after 4 years of driving with no tickets. I just purchased the r8 over the r7 for the larger range detection and hoping it’s even better than the r3
The R3 I had has screen burnout so much that some of the led segments were completely missing. I moved up to the V1 Gen 2 with the V1 Driver app….very happy with that and no screen burn out
I bought a Uniden R4 a few years back when they first came out. I was highly disappointed with the amount of false alarms and the lack of detector adjustments, not to mention next to no updates from Uniden. I immediately ordered an Escort Redline 360c once back in stock, and I haven't looked back. I have owned a ton of Escort radar detectors, going back almost 20 years, and even though they can be a bit lazy at times, you really can't beat their integration of features.
Few years ago I had escorts flagship , eventually the speaker gave up on it . Then about 3 years ago I got the r7 but I felt there’s better stuff out there , so I got the v1 gen 2 about 2 years ago . For about a month I ran them simultaneously. I noticed the v1 had quite a bit longer range , less blind spot falses , and with the v1 driver app , the lockouts were much better. I also much prefer its build quality , footprint (quite a bit thinner ) and I love the sun visor mount that it comes with ! Keeps it out of the sun , out of the field of view, and disguises it pretty well (less likely people will break into the car to get it ) . Update process is sooo much better and easier as well . Will run it till the next gen comes out for sure.
Great break down of your experience, thanks. How is the V1 without the app? I still want to run Waze on my phone and for me it would be either Waze or the app.
Thank you . I have not used it much without the app , it’s just so effortless to use the app (I use v1 driver ) when I get in the car and turn it on , the app connects automatically, even if I have it closed , then it just runs in the background . I can still run Waze with the app connected . The biggest thing with the app is the filtering, I’ll bet the detector will be just a bit more chatty without it .
@@ibrahimc27810 interesting, I didn’t think about that. So it still functions and does all the filtering, you just don’t get the display. Are you missing out on much visuals or functionality by not having the app visible?
@@seashackf1 not for me no, Waze will be enough . I’m sure the android app got more features than the apps we have available on iPhones , but I haven’t used it . That detector is sooo quiet with the v1 driver app
@@ibrahimc27810 I guess that kind of puts to rest one of my biggest concerns about the V1. I was thinking since I’m also on an iPhone that it would be either V1 driver or Waze. Good to know you can still get the benefits of the app, which it seems the V1 does need, and still run Waze. Waze is great, but has its limitations just like RD’s do. Having both seems the way to go. Thanks again.
Vortex, I upgraded from the R3 to the R8. I've done all of updates and settings on the R8 from your setup video. One thing I've noticed is when I go through the city with the R3 it alerts me of all red light cameras. For some reason that is not the case for the R8. The R8 gives no red light camera alerts for going through the same area as the R3. This is my second R8 because the first one died for some reason but neither one would alert to red light cameras. Is there a setting I need to perform to get this feature active? Thanks for your help :)
Escort 360c with Wi-Fi in the car does not show the posted speed in Wisconsin. Works fine in other states and works using Bluetooth. I contacted tech support, and they knew the problem blaming ATT cell tower equipment.
Recently or ever? AT&T shouldn’t have anything to do with it, assuming you can connect via WiFi. Sometimes Escort’s server goes down, and it happened again recently, which means a detector can’t reference PSL data until the server comes back up.
I have talked with at least 3 different support people who have given me the same answer for the past 2 years. I usually activate my car Wi-Fi before I go to Florida end of January and deactivate it at the end of March when I return to Wisconsin. I'm wasting my time calling the support team hoping for a resolution.@@VortexRadar
I have not had any issues with updating the Uniden's with the R1 Tools. I find that they work really well. I think there the best Detectors for the Money. Escort seems to be overpriced. Thanks for Your Videos.
I've had the R7 since it came out, and so far I'm not seeing anything compelling to change to another detector, at least for my needs. However, I do like do like hearing Cobra is trying to step up and make a higher quality product.
@@Airbag1010674 The problem is that the R8 isn't another $600-$700 better than the R7. Is it better? YES...is it "better enough" to justify the cost? I don't think so. I'm not buying another one until my R7 either dies or some new technology comes out that just absolutely makes it obsolete.
Uniden r8 if you want arrows on the unit. Uniden r4 if no arrows are needed. That's his preferred tip pics. I got the R4 and find it the best bang for your buck if you can do without the arrows that point the direction of the radar or laser threat.
Nice, Thanks for making. I do see the second delay on the redline compared the the R7/8. Does the LEO lock onto your car that quick? It might take a few seconds to keep a tracer on you, no? Let me know.
I bought both the uniden R8 & the Escort Red Line 360C. Both of them work perfectly. I returned the R8 on account of its made of cheap quality. The Escort Redline 360C is the best. It just is the best, the R8 is just annoying and does give many false alarms.
Could you make a video about using the new integration of Waze alerts for V1Driver for the Uniden R8. I followed the instructions from the developers video but am not receiving any Waze alerts through V1Driver so am continuing to use both Waze and V1Driver at the same time.
V1G2 paired with V1companion for the win. V1companion Settings: Silence KA 12 Silence K 8 Silence X 5 Urgency alert (on) @ 2 bars Silence X/K inc KA @ 30mph GPS warning (off) Advance false (on) Silence all rear K (off) Silence all rear X (off) Flash v1 (off) Flash v1 (off) Dark mode (on) Override dark mode (on) Dark mode for passive (off) Prioritize Alerts (off) Enable (on) Enable (on) Enable (on) Units (English) V1G2 settings: All bogeys All filters OFF (zero filters!!) Scanning K & KA & L (X off) Fast laser on This will open up your V1G2. Your K band range will GREATLY increase. You will not get a lot of falsing… about the same “chirps” as you do now, maybe less in regards to falsing. Keep your phone mounted and app running to always be aware of your surroundings. When the v1 lights turn on, it’s definitely time to pay attention.
I spoke to a R7 guy in my county… he told me that our sheriff deputies don’t use K anymore, that he doesn’t ever get hit by k anymore. Told him that his R7 must be filtering them out because the sheriff’s department is DEFINITELY running K band. They’re running mostly between 24.110 to 24.080 but I’ve seen them twice now at 23.995. 🤷🏻♂️
Love my V1 G2! I was noticing how strong the rear antenna is. Have you ever tested the differences in distance with front antenna facing forward vs. rear antenna facing forward? Would be interesting!
I live in Thailand and 99% of the speed detection is by cameras. I have a Uniden R3 which is about 30% effective, firmware is all up to date. Can you recommend a detector which is good on camera detection.
Sorry I don’t know which cameras you have, which detectors would work best for you, if an app would be better, if an international detector or firmware would be better, etc. You’d need to ask someone from your area.
Thanks for the detailed review. I have used Passport for a long time and I am kind of biased about it. But as I am planning to buy a new one I need an objective review on current brands. This definitely helped. Some measurement numbers would've been better through. Like using multiple detectors (at least the long range high end ones) and showing which one detects how far away, how many false alerts each shows etc. By the way, it seems you live pretty close to where I live. I was surprising to see all familiar highways and backroads on a YT video. :)
haha yeah I and others have done a tooooon of tests over the years if you’d like to see some numbers. They vary based on a variety of factors, but you can check out tons of test results. :)
@VortexRadar i am going to go with the R8 i have the R3 now but when they had problems with the screen it is now pretty dim on the brightness on hi. Hope the R8 dont do this. Looked a best buy but they dont say it it has the blur tooth. So im on rd site checking them out.
Idk if its just me but i feel like placement is key for RD. My cobra rad 450 sits up high where my body or seats block any possible signal. Everytime someone tells me that RD dont work is because the have it sitting on the dash at a weird angle. Flat, level and up high i have never had issues.
Asking for a friend: person lives in MA/RI area, has a C8 Vette. only "Horse-plays" on the highway, not a fan of permanent mounts, would prefer visor mount, has an android phone, what RD works best against MA/RI "StormTroopers" speed enforcement devices? They say the R8 looks too large for a C8 windshield? Thank you
saw a cop in the weirdest spot today on my totally under the speed limit heavily detoured commute to work this morning, I'm lucky he didn't turn on his lights but it seems from this video that my original plan to pick up an R8 after work remains unchanged 😂
R8 or Redline 360? After spending 3 days looking at radars and reading the forums I am even more confused. I like "quite" but then I live in Utah and not sure if they have a lot of instant on but, definitely hilly and windy roads. If I go with the redline I would be hoping that they will continue to provide updates to help with the responsiveness. My heart thinks redline but my brain says R8. False alerts may cause me to toss it out the window and simply stick to my laser eyes and pray before I lay it down. lol
Thanks for the informative videos. My 1 question is "which one would be BEST for KA bands for trucking"? I Drive a big truck and i currently have the escort 360 and honestly it picks up highway patrol even coming behind me from what seems to be a pretty good distance. I need quick and Far! Im just looking to upgrade since i have had the same detector since around 2017. Seems it will be between the redline, the valentine, or the R8. Thanks in advance!
I find it interesting that redline is having issues with IO... especially when almost a decade ago, the original redline was named "sleeping beauty" due to this same issue.
I need help! I’m in the market for my first radar detector. My buddy has the escort redline 360 and the performance was awesome so that’s what I was going to get. I just bought a new 2024 Silverado and there isn’t a cigarette charger in it. Can I plug the escort into the usb port? I’ve heard that the usb port isn’t strong enough to power the radar detectors. What should I do? I don’t know if im smart enough to try to wire it into the rearview mirror. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.
It’s my understanding Waze is still a necessity. If so and you couldn’t run both Waze and an app at the same time would you choose it over an app? I’m also stuck with iOS and it’s apps to configure the detectors with so JBV1 isn’t even an option for me. Given those limitations which detector is the best one to run then?
Great video! Still running the r7 and love it. Do you have any videos on how activating different features affects performance? For example, does leaving Ka POP on make my detector's reaction time noticably slower to a regular Ka signal? Or is it only a few ms slower? Same question for using other less common features such as MRCD/T, X band, TSF, and K band. I'm seeing a lot of differing thoughts on this question, especially as new software updates come out. I like the security of having more options on in case PDs in my state decide to try something new, but don't want to drastically reduce my detector's reaction time to the more common Ka signal.
best rule of thumb is shut off what you dont need. in my state WY, KA 34.7 is all thats used by LEO's so i shut off as much as i can since my understanding is that allows it to scan quicker, farther, and less falses because its scanning fewer frequencies.
@@_AndromedaGalaxy_ None of that is really an issue for the R7...it has been tested extensively and things like TSF on actually reduces false alerts while not slowing it down at all.
Probably going to sell all my detectors as the cops don't enforce much if any of the road speeds or much if any rules of the roads anymore since the pandemic. haven't seen any radar anywhere I have traveled in the state for about a year now.
I just took my r4 from one car and put in another but the suction cup is now dirty. Is it possible to clean this sticky suction cup on the r4 mount so I can resuse it? i seen some said use alcohol and others said use soap and water. I wanted to to be sure of the best option before I try. The manual has no mention of this unfortunately.
Which functions will I get and not get if I don't have CarPlay? I don't like how functionality has been unloaded onto apps; if I don't have CarPlay or simply don't want to F with it, what am I getting?
I've been using an adroid phone for 2 years for my V1 G2 with an active line.THE V1 G2 was working great with the JBV1, now it stopped connecting to the phone . it will connect to iphone no problem or a different android phone. do you know by any chance what causes this and how to fix it.
I live in LA, CA. Do mostly city driving, some highway. Like the idea of set it and forget it along with these features: Bluetooth, GPS, photo radar, Apple Car play integration, minimum false alerts - quieter, directional arrows, windshield mount. Which one should I buy? Escort seems easiest but Im not sure which model. Uniden? Thanks!
Yep, sounds like an Escort is a good fit. I don’t think you’ll need photo radar detection in CA. The Redline 360c is their best one geni.us/Redline360c but if you wanna save some money and don't need the WiFi features, you can get the Max 360 Mk II. geni.us/Max360MkII Its range is less than the Redline, but it saves a good bit of $$.
So these detectors that work with various phone apps, do the apps work inside of something like Apple Carplay so it integrates directly into my car's infotainment? Or do I have to screw around mounting the phone?
Escort has an app that interacts with CarPlay, but it’s not particularly useful IMO. With these apps I either run them foregrounded or backgrounded on my phone as appropriate and use CarPlay for Waze, Google Maps, Spotify, etc.
I did some research on the redline escort based on it it says it’s only 10 to 15% better at receiving signals in front of you but the rear radar is not nearly as good as the regular escort max 360. Have you noticed that compared to the redline version
There’s been lots and lots of tests on this over the years. The Redline is more sensitive and does give more range. How much more depends on a variety of factors.
The very generic question: but as another person local to the Seattle area and a driver with a heavy foot in the car this would go in: for this area would you suggest the R8 or Redline 360c? Thanks!
I have the R8 and its saved me quite a few times but i just recently got a ticket from a trooper that was using laser. On my way back from getting that ticket. The cop was in the same place and my detector did not give me an alert again. I realized I have never gotten a laser alert with this detector. Gotten every other type including red light cameras. But I'm wondering does it need to be updated or is something wrong with it. The laser is turned on, on the detector. Please advise. Thank you
Unfortunately that’s super common. ua-cam.com/video/75fsXgZDdK0/v-deo.html You’ll want to run Waze and a laser jammer alongside your R8 for that reason.
I bought the R8 after seeing your review. however is there a way to display the speed limit as opposed to current speed? I was hoping to see the limit with this one but I guess I should have gotten the escort?
Why nothing was said about Radenso? It was on the list but nothing was mentioned why it’s worse than uniden? I just recently purchased one and thinking about returning and getting uniden. Is it make sense or not? Which benefits I’m getting with uniden vs radenso?? Thank you
I bought the Uniden R8 after watching a few of your videos. Detector arrived in the evening, so I got it hooked up and connected to R8 companion for my drive to work the next morning. Within the first block of leaving my neighbor hood there was a bogey lurking behind some shrubs before I could even make it to the first intersection. I was a little worried I wouldn't get to see a real signal for a while but it was literally the first signal identified on my R8!
I've been running a Uniden LRD detector for 10 years now (can't even remember what model, but it was the top of the line at the time) - I'm not really a speeder, I just like to know when cops are around as the police here have focused more and more on drivers doing just a fraction above the limit in recent decades instead of focusing on the real issues. It's never let me down - in 10 years I've only been pulled over once and that was because the cop was using instant on (I was doing 4km/h over the 100km/h speed limit on a dead quiet country road - so that's how bad it has got here - ridiculous $30 fine and 10 demerit points as well as an even more ridiculous lecture from the cop). Watching this video as I wondered if it was worth upgrading after a decade, I definitely think I might invest in the R8 too.
Falsing has never been a problem for me, I have disabled the K band as the cops exclusively use KA band here - and speed cameras are mostly fixed, either that or you can spot them miles away as they always use the same vans.
@Beer_Dad1975 what country are you in
I ran 4000 miles to California and back in my charger 🔌, used a v1g2 with jbv1, protected me against every encounter, I had plenty of time to slow down to psl and also awareness of a cop moving around, which I encountered in Louisiana against a lidar strike. My car will go from zero to prison time in just a few seconds, so it's important to have a quality RD when alot is at stake.
Nice setup man, I own an 04 Jaguar XJR and while she might not be quite as fast as your 392, she gets around 4.5 seconds to 60
Is the JBV1 a laser jammer or laser detector?
@jaynikk758 I think in the video he said it's jams too being undecteable but that doesn't really matter in the us
@@jaynikk758jbv1 is an app to use with the radar detector itself
It does not jam. Being undetectable has nothing to do with jamming. Undetectable from radar detector detectors.
@@jaynikk758JBV1 is an app on your phone. Not a jammer or detector in any way.
About 3 years ago I bought the R7 based on your reviews and it has saved me time and time again. I feel naked driving without it lol
I agree, I bought it around 3 years ago as well and I've gotten very used to driving with it. I'd totally buy it again.
@@andrewtateisacharliemale4399 yea at this point i want a dedicated one for my daily and one for my motorcycle lol
Been running the Uniden DFR7 since 2017 for my daily driver and its been a outstanding radar detector paired with Waze for the highway or rural driving. Just updated the firmware to 1.12 and database files today. I plan to purchase a sports car for 2024 and will be taking some road trips. I plan to purchase the Uniden R4, when the price drops back down to $300. All purchases, configurations, and pick for radars has come from Vortex channel. The Uniden detector has saved me numerous times from passing or making a minor mistake over the years that could have cost me thousands in insurance fees and fines. Thank you Vortex!
Long time v1 user, just got a g2, v1 g1 has saved me many times and the sounds a v1 makes it’s always clear when it’s a serious threat. The updates via BT and the supporting apps available made me stay loyal to the brand.
Bought a R8 based on your videos. Hands down way better than my escort max 360. It’s almost too good because I slow down MILES before I need lol.
When it comes to radars, I don’t skimp.
The police just need to catch you once; you need to catch them everytime
Perfectly stated. Don't go cheap, as it could be a very expensive bad decision.
R3 was cheap and saved my bacon countless times.
I still use my original Redline combined with Waze; drive 14 miles over the speed limit (79 in a 65) and have yet to get a ticket. The original Redline still has the range to get the job done. My only concern is Lidar which unfortunately none of the detectors protect you with. Waze has saved me twice re. Lidar, other than that the Redline always gets the job done and it is 15 years old. not in a hurry to switch it out. waiting on Theia LOLOLOL.😂
Ill spend as much as needed to keep myself out of Jail.
It's been 5 years of any day now we should have some more news to release. Last news release was 2019. Can't wait!!! @@dyinbreedband
Uniden r4 i picked up for 289 at sams club
So the question is… if you could only pick ONE radar detector, which would it be? One detector for everything. R8 or the Redline?
Yea really didn’t answer that question did they
Bro, this is the most important question in the entire comment section and no facking answers.... I asked same thing just few min ago and then scrolled down later to read this with no answer and it was posted 7 months ago.
@@rajsteint6487 valentine one is the answer. Look at a bunch of videos and that’s the highest ranking one. I had the old one and it’s fantastic just sent off for the new one
Make sure you buy it from them $598. If you buy it from someone else secondary sales it’s $800 with NO warranty. You don’t have to buy a new one every year, just send in
your current one and for $50 or something they’ll upgrade it and send it back. With the JBM app it’s completely unbeatable
R8 Numbnut
@@ccuellar6212 lol
I love my cobra 480i, it does pick up false alerts on the Ka band around red light cameras but i get good range from it and its never failed me.
The r7 has been my detector of choice for a year or so and Ill say it is a very solid detector
I've been running the V1G2 since a couple of months after its release. Paired with JBV1, the duo has been absolutely outstanding.
Love my R4. Excellent performance at a great price point.
To me it's the best bang for your buck of them all unless you just gotta have arrows. I never had arrows so I don't know what I'm missing.
Great reviews Vortex. Running R7 with customized setting in expert mode and is very quiet. Tried all but still coming back for the R7. Radar detector users also need to know how police radar works and their limitations. Knowing their limitations adds protection to yourself. Also understand that radar detectors have their own limits too and seasoned LEO knows how to defeat radar detectors as well. Having a high end radar detector, a good knowledge, understanding of how police radar works, having good situatioan awareness and a rabbit will reduce chances of getting caught. NEVER DEPEND of your radar detector alone even if it is considered THE BEST. It is a false sense of security.
Thank you for all your hardwork. I just bought an R8 uniden because of your reviews and its already saved me so many times here in NY from state troppers
I marvel how incredibly detailed you are. My display on my DFR7 went out, and so I thought it was time for an upgrade anyway. (DFR7 went to girlfriend. We have a LD relationship now, so even more necessary for detectors). I have had detectors since the late 80s, starting with an Escort. I decided the R3 is definitely sufficient, since I need to have my eyes on the road more than I do fiddling with my phone (in a cradle where you keep yours). The upgrade from the DFR7 is totally worth it. The filtering is fantastic and the range is almost too good!! (Now I have to slow down a mile sooner!). Long story short, thank you for doing the best reviews of almost any product I've ever seen. I hope you make a lot of money doing this. You deserve it.
I have a R4 and for the $ that in my opinion is the absolute best bang for your buck for no directional arrows.Love mine ❤❤ thanks for the video. 😊
Same
I really hope M. Valentine watches this and has a software update in the works that addresses some of your issues with the V1G2. Thanks for the excellent video.
The issues are pretty well known now and they’re definitely aware of them. Some things like Ka band issues they’ve been slowly releasing updates for. K band performance has been a known issue for years.
Ka band has definitely been getting a lot better.
Wish they would just release a new unit and include all the features the unidens do.
I have three V1 gen2, one in each vehicle so yeah I'm fan. Love JBV1.
Started with a $80 cobra with a tons of false alerts
Got a Uniden R3 and it saved me so many times. It basically paid for itself after 4 years of driving with no tickets.
I just purchased the r8 over the r7 for the larger range detection and hoping it’s even better than the r3
The R3 I had has screen burnout so much that some of the led segments were completely missing. I moved up to the V1 Gen 2 with the V1 Driver app….very happy with that and no screen burn out
Ran my R3 in dark mode for 5 years. No screen burnout.
The DS1 is my preferred RD and it’s never let me down.
I have a radenso ds1 and a pro M, they both work like champs.
I am surprised he didn't mention the ds1.
That’s OK everybody likes what they like and it doesn’t have arrows and I think he prefers arrows can’t blame him there.
I believe in previous years he did mention the ds1 as a budget pick. I think it's still an excellent budget pick today.
I’ve had my r8 since it first came out. Saved me plenty of times. Never been pulled over 10/10
Any update on when the laser jammers for the r8 coming out?
Must watch channel for comprehensive comparisons of RDs. Thanks!
I bought a Uniden R4 a few years back when they first came out. I was highly disappointed with the amount of false alarms and the lack of detector adjustments, not to mention next to no updates from Uniden. I immediately ordered an Escort Redline 360c once back in stock, and I haven't looked back. I have owned a ton of Escort radar detectors, going back almost 20 years, and even though they can be a bit lazy at times, you really can't beat their integration of features.
They must have been slow to update at first but now it's got several and they update it regularly.
Valentine 1 hands down!
Valentine is trash. It is outdated, and doesn't perform well against the big dawg (Uniden). 😂🫵🤡
I have my R3 for 3 years and saves my ass all the time. Definitely made my money back on it.
what r3 settings do u use? i followed many instructions and configurations but i get many false alerts and no actual alerts
Few years ago I had escorts flagship , eventually the speaker gave up on it . Then about 3 years ago I got the r7 but I felt there’s better stuff out there , so I got the v1 gen 2 about 2 years ago . For about a month I ran them simultaneously. I noticed the v1 had quite a bit longer range , less blind spot falses , and with the v1 driver app , the lockouts were much better. I also much prefer its build quality , footprint (quite a bit thinner ) and I love the sun visor mount that it comes with ! Keeps it out of the sun , out of the field of view, and disguises it pretty well (less likely people will break into the car to get it ) . Update process is sooo much better and easier as well . Will run it till the next gen comes out for sure.
Great break down of your experience, thanks. How is the V1 without the app? I still want to run Waze on my phone and for me it would be either Waze or the app.
Thank you . I have not used it much without the app , it’s just so effortless to use the app (I use v1 driver ) when I get in the car and turn it on , the app connects automatically, even if I have it closed , then it just runs in the background . I can still run Waze with the app connected . The biggest thing with the app is the filtering, I’ll bet the detector will be just a bit more chatty without it .
@@ibrahimc27810 interesting, I didn’t think about that. So it still functions and does all the filtering, you just don’t get the display. Are you missing out on much visuals or functionality by not having the app visible?
@@seashackf1 not for me no, Waze will be enough . I’m sure the android app got more features than the apps we have available on iPhones , but I haven’t used it . That detector is sooo quiet with the v1 driver app
@@ibrahimc27810 I guess that kind of puts to rest one of my biggest concerns about the V1. I was thinking since I’m also on an iPhone that it would be either V1 driver or Waze. Good to know you can still get the benefits of the app, which it seems the V1 does need, and still run Waze. Waze is great, but has its limitations just like RD’s do. Having both seems the way to go. Thanks again.
Vortex, I upgraded from the R3 to the R8. I've done all of updates and settings on the R8 from your setup video. One thing I've noticed is when I go through the city with the R3 it alerts me of all red light cameras. For some reason that is not the case for the R8. The R8 gives no red light camera alerts for going through the same area as the R3. This is my second R8 because the first one died for some reason but neither one would alert to red light cameras. Is there a setting I need to perform to get this feature active?
Thanks for your help :)
Escort 360c with Wi-Fi in the car does not show the posted speed in Wisconsin. Works fine in other states and works using Bluetooth. I contacted tech support, and they knew the problem blaming ATT cell tower equipment.
Recently or ever? AT&T shouldn’t have anything to do with it, assuming you can connect via WiFi. Sometimes Escort’s server goes down, and it happened again recently, which means a detector can’t reference PSL data until the server comes back up.
I have talked with at least 3 different support people who have given me the same answer for the past 2 years. I usually activate my car Wi-Fi before I go to Florida end of January and deactivate it at the end of March when I return to Wisconsin. I'm wasting my time calling the support team hoping for a resolution.@@VortexRadar
The ATT may have just been an excuse.
Thank you for making this video Vortex!
Valentine used to be "we'll alert literally everything....now the v2 i still think doesn't alert on many Ka from our LA state troopers.
I have not had any issues with updating the Uniden's with the R1 Tools. I find that they work really well.
I think there the best Detectors for the Money. Escort seems to be overpriced. Thanks for Your Videos.
here in WY ive consistently gotten about 2mi of range with my R3, even a faint signal up to 2.5mi. instant on is the only method that can defeat it.
I've had the R7 since it came out, and so far I'm not seeing anything compelling to change to another detector, at least for my needs. However, I do like do like hearing Cobra is trying to step up and make a higher quality product.
I have R7 and R8, R8 is much quieter/way less false K band
@@Airbag1010674 The problem is that the R8 isn't another $600-$700 better than the R7. Is it better? YES...is it "better enough" to justify the cost? I don't think so. I'm not buying another one until my R7 either dies or some new technology comes out that just absolutely makes it obsolete.
Well, since you tested all of them, which one would you recommend to avoid getting speed tickets? Thank you 🤝 for your efforts !
Uniden r8 if you want arrows on the unit. Uniden r4 if no arrows are needed. That's his preferred tip pics. I got the R4 and find it the best bang for your buck if you can do without the arrows that point the direction of the radar or laser threat.
Nice, Thanks for making. I do see the second delay on the redline compared the the R7/8. Does the LEO lock onto your car that quick? It might take a few seconds to keep a tracer on you, no? Let me know.
Thanks so much man. This is exactly what i was looking for.
I bought both the uniden R8 & the Escort Red Line 360C. Both of them work perfectly. I returned the R8 on account of its made of cheap quality. The Escort Redline 360C is the best. It just is the best, the R8 is just annoying and does give many false alarms.
Could you make a video about using the new integration of Waze alerts for V1Driver for the Uniden R8. I followed the instructions from the developers video but am not receiving any Waze alerts through V1Driver so am continuing to use both Waze and V1Driver at the same time.
V1G2 paired with V1companion for the win.
V1companion Settings:
Silence KA 12
Silence K 8
Silence X 5
Urgency alert (on) @ 2 bars
Silence X/K inc KA @ 30mph
GPS warning (off)
Advance false (on)
Silence all rear K (off)
Silence all rear X (off)
Flash v1 (off)
Flash v1 (off)
Dark mode (on)
Override dark mode (on)
Dark mode for passive (off)
Prioritize Alerts (off)
Enable (on)
Enable (on)
Enable (on)
Units (English)
V1G2 settings:
All bogeys
All filters OFF (zero filters!!)
Scanning K & KA & L (X off)
Fast laser on
This will open up your V1G2. Your K band range will GREATLY increase. You will not get a lot of falsing… about the same “chirps” as you do now, maybe less in regards to falsing.
Keep your phone mounted and app running to always be aware of your surroundings.
When the v1 lights turn on, it’s definitely time to pay attention.
I spoke to a R7 guy in my county… he told me that our sheriff deputies don’t use K anymore, that he doesn’t ever get hit by k anymore. Told him that his R7 must be filtering them out because the sheriff’s department is DEFINITELY running K band.
They’re running mostly between 24.110 to 24.080 but I’ve seen them twice now at 23.995. 🤷🏻♂️
Nice reviews, it was cool to see all the streets in my neighborhood. 😂
Your a life savor bro oh my goodness
So is it true the state of Mississippi just banned the use of radar detectors like Virginia and Washington DC
Love my V1 G2! I was noticing how strong the rear antenna is. Have you ever tested the differences in distance with front antenna facing forward vs. rear antenna facing forward? Would be interesting!
let's talk about the best ones that you can keep on dash because my state doesn't allow windshield mount please
I live in Thailand and 99% of the speed detection is by cameras. I have a Uniden R3 which is about 30% effective, firmware is all up to date. Can you recommend a detector which is good on camera detection.
Sorry I don’t know which cameras you have, which detectors would work best for you, if an app would be better, if an international detector or firmware would be better, etc. You’d need to ask someone from your area.
Thanks for the detailed review. I have used Passport for a long time and I am kind of biased about it. But as I am planning to buy a new one I need an objective review on current brands. This definitely helped. Some measurement numbers would've been better through. Like using multiple detectors (at least the long range high end ones) and showing which one detects how far away, how many false alerts each shows etc.
By the way, it seems you live pretty close to where I live. I was surprising to see all familiar highways and backroads on a YT video. :)
haha yeah I and others have done a tooooon of tests over the years if you’d like to see some numbers. They vary based on a variety of factors, but you can check out tons of test results. :)
@@VortexRadarWould it be possible for you to share those data with me?
Thank you as always you have made my mind up with this last video. Take care
Glad it helps! Which one have you decided upon?
@VortexRadar i am going to go with the R8 i have the R3 now but when they had problems with the screen it is now pretty dim on the brightness on hi. Hope the R8 dont do this. Looked a best buy but they dont say it it has the blur tooth. So im on rd site checking them out.
Yeah the R8 has BT. The R3 doesn’t.
@@VortexRadar all r8 or just newer models. I thought some of the first ones out did not have it?
All R8’s. The feature wasn’t activated at launch until a firmware update was released.
Idk if its just me but i feel like placement is key for RD. My cobra rad 450 sits up high where my body or seats block any possible signal. Everytime someone tells me that RD dont work is because the have it sitting on the dash at a weird angle. Flat, level and up high i have never had issues.
Finally i think i am at the right place .
Asking for a friend: person lives in MA/RI area, has a C8 Vette. only "Horse-plays" on the highway, not a fan of permanent mounts, would prefer visor mount, has an android phone, what RD works best against MA/RI "StormTroopers" speed enforcement devices? They say the R8 looks too large for a C8 windshield?
Thank you
Here in NYC the streets are flooded with speed cameras!! What's the best MRCD radars to help me detect them? I'm currently running the Radenso DS1
Probably the Uniden R4 and if you need arrows r8. He seems to prefer them over all.
saw a cop in the weirdest spot today on my totally under the speed limit heavily detoured commute to work this morning, I'm lucky he didn't turn on his lights but it seems from this video that my original plan to pick up an R8 after work remains unchanged 😂
How much work is involved with R8 not to select it over the redline? Also what best to block laser ?
Just picked up Uniden R7 upgrade from cobra 480i 👀 I checked the update and the current version on it is 145.147.121 is that the latest one 👀
R8 or Redline 360? After spending 3 days looking at radars and reading the forums I am even more confused. I like "quite" but then I live in Utah and not sure if they have a lot of instant on but, definitely hilly and windy roads. If I go with the redline I would be hoping that they will continue to provide updates to help with the responsiveness. My heart thinks redline but my brain says R8. False alerts may cause me to toss it out the window and simply stick to my laser eyes and pray before I lay it down. lol
what you buy?? r8 o redline?
@@dhongalbert5396went with R8.
Thanks for the informative videos. My 1 question is "which one would be BEST for KA bands for trucking"? I Drive a big truck and i currently have the escort 360 and honestly it picks up highway patrol even coming behind me from what seems to be a pretty good distance. I need quick and Far! Im just looking to upgrade since i have had the same detector since around 2017. Seems it will be between the redline, the valentine, or the R8. Thanks in advance!
I find it interesting that redline is having issues with IO... especially when almost a decade ago, the original redline was named "sleeping beauty" due to this same issue.
I need help! I’m in the market for my first radar detector. My buddy has the escort redline 360 and the performance was awesome so that’s what I was going to get. I just bought a new 2024 Silverado and there isn’t a cigarette charger in it. Can I plug the escort into the usb port? I’ve heard that the usb port isn’t strong enough to power the radar detectors. What should I do? I don’t know if im smart enough to try to wire it into the rearview mirror. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated.
If it's like other escort detectors, It needs 12v power, not 5v from usb.
Thanks for another great video! Would you know if uniden R8 would perform as well in Canada ?
It’s my understanding Waze is still a necessity. If so and you couldn’t run both Waze and an app at the same time would you choose it over an app? I’m also stuck with iOS and it’s apps to configure the detectors with so JBV1 isn’t even an option for me. Given those limitations which detector is the best one to run then?
If you have a sams club membership the uniden r4 is 289 from them
hey, any recommendations for a driver in pennsylvania? thanks
Hello, great information.
Do you have any reviews on best built-in radar detectors? Thank u
He has one on the Uniden r9 I believe.
Great video! Still running the r7 and love it. Do you have any videos on how activating different features affects performance? For example, does leaving Ka POP on make my detector's reaction time noticably slower to a regular Ka signal? Or is it only a few ms slower? Same question for using other less common features such as MRCD/T, X band, TSF, and K band. I'm seeing a lot of differing thoughts on this question, especially as new software updates come out.
I like the security of having more options on in case PDs in my state decide to try something new, but don't want to drastically reduce my detector's reaction time to the more common Ka signal.
best rule of thumb is shut off what you dont need. in my state WY, KA 34.7 is all thats used by LEO's so i shut off as much as i can since my understanding is that allows it to scan quicker, farther, and less falses because its scanning fewer frequencies.
@@_AndromedaGalaxy_ None of that is really an issue for the R7...it has been tested extensively and things like TSF on actually reduces false alerts while not slowing it down at all.
oh ok, im using the R3 but leaning towards R7 for my next one.@@ZboeC5
Can we bury Theia now as vaporware?
At this point there’s nothing really worth talking about until there’s something concrete released one day and so it’s time to move on IMO.
If Theia was a thing they would have released it by now.
Probably going to sell all my detectors as the cops don't enforce much if any of the road speeds or much if any rules of the roads anymore since the pandemic. haven't seen any radar anywhere I have traveled in the state for about a year now.
Hello
Love your videos !
What is the best rd for France in your opinion ?
Thanks 🙏🏼
My Needs" are to not get pulled over.
can you make an updated r3 settings video? i tried all of the old ones and ones on your site but they don’t seem to do great after weeks of testing
What are radars are good for countries in Europe?
I just took my r4 from one car and put in another but the suction cup is now dirty. Is it possible to clean this sticky suction cup on the r4 mount so I can resuse it? i seen some said use alcohol and others said use soap and water. I wanted to to be sure of the best option before I try. The manual has no mention of this unfortunately.
I’ve used rubbing alcohol for my phone holder suction cup and it works 🤷🏾♂️
Which functions will I get and not get if I don't have CarPlay? I don't like how functionality has been unloaded onto apps; if I don't have CarPlay or simply don't want to F with it, what am I getting?
Only Escort offers a CarPlay app and it’s not great so I never even use it. So you’re not really missing much of anything.
What is the best unit for western states? Lots of driving in the great plains and mountain roads with lots of blind corners?
Something higher end like the R4, R8, V1 Gen2, etc.
I've been using an adroid phone for 2 years for my V1 G2 with an active line.THE V1 G2 was working great with the JBV1, now it stopped connecting to the phone . it will connect to iphone no problem or a different android phone. do you know by any chance what causes this and how to fix it.
Love my DS1
How much are you giving up using the R4 vs the $600-800 models? Are you really missing out? We dont have alot of sophisticated detecting where i live.
Thank you
I live in LA, CA. Do mostly city driving, some highway. Like the idea of set it and forget it along with these features: Bluetooth, GPS, photo radar, Apple Car play integration, minimum false alerts - quieter, directional arrows, windshield mount.
Which one should I buy? Escort seems easiest but Im not sure which model. Uniden? Thanks!
Yep, sounds like an Escort is a good fit. I don’t think you’ll need photo radar detection in CA. The Redline 360c is their best one geni.us/Redline360c but if you wanna save some money and don't need the WiFi features, you can get the Max 360 Mk II. geni.us/Max360MkII Its range is less than the Redline, but it saves a good bit of $$.
Thanks very much for the quick response! @@VortexRadar
Bought this on your recommendation. Thx. Do you have a set-up video by chance?@@VortexRadar
So these detectors that work with various phone apps, do the apps work inside of something like Apple Carplay so it integrates directly into my car's infotainment? Or do I have to screw around mounting the phone?
Escort has an app that interacts with CarPlay, but it’s not particularly useful IMO. With these apps I either run them foregrounded or backgrounded on my phone as appropriate and use CarPlay for Waze, Google Maps, Spotify, etc.
@Vortex Radar I need to know which one does the best on jamming, let me know and i will use your link to buy. I was looking at k40????
K40 is the worst performing laser jammer on the market.
Here’s some of my favorite options: www.vortexradar.com/best-laser-jammer-reviews/
What do you recommend for completely shielding radar with the longest range. Must be 💯 % shields.
Redline 360c or V1 Gen2
I am too old to speed but would LOVE to have one of these. Problem is I live in the Communist state of Va.🦇
@vortexradar if I just want camera radar detector, which one is the best one?
I would like one with good instant on detection detection and dependable without using app. Torn between 360c Redline or V1gen2. Help!! Thank you!!
Get a Uniden then. Redline is slow, but okay without an app. V1 is quick, but needs an app. Uniden is quick and doesn’t need an app.
@@VortexRadar thank you!! Btw I’ve learned so much from you!!!
Just bought the Uniden R4, does he have a video on how to set it up properly with the recomended settings?
Here ya go: www.vortexradar.com/2021/11/how-to-setup-configure-uniden-r4/
I did some research on the redline escort based on it it says it’s only 10 to 15% better at receiving signals in front of you but the rear radar is not nearly as good as the regular escort max 360. Have you noticed that compared to the redline version
There’s been lots and lots of tests on this over the years. The Redline is more sensitive and does give more range. How much more depends on a variety of factors.
Is the international firmware worth to switch to for the Uniden R7?
The very generic question: but as another person local to the Seattle area and a driver with a heavy foot in the car this would go in: for this area would you suggest the R8 or Redline 360c? Thanks!
We don’t have some especially tricky stuff here so either one would work well.
I have the R8 and its saved me quite a few times but i just recently got a ticket from a trooper that was using laser. On my way back from getting that ticket. The cop was in the same place and my detector did not give me an alert again. I realized I have never gotten a laser alert with this detector. Gotten every other type including red light cameras. But I'm wondering does it need to be updated or is something wrong with it. The laser is turned on, on the detector.
Please advise. Thank you
Unfortunately that’s super common.
ua-cam.com/video/75fsXgZDdK0/v-deo.html
You’ll want to run Waze and a laser jammer alongside your R8 for that reason.
How does it detect inside a dashboard or console?
I bought the R8 after seeing your review. however is there a way to display the speed limit as opposed to current speed? I was hoping to see the limit with this one but I guess I should have gotten the escort?
Unfortunately not. Escort references that info via their cloud features. It’s not built into Escort or Uniden detectors directly.
What is the best of the best detector for 100% stealth being 100% undetectable?
Probably the Uniden r9
those auto update features are cool, i wish a god one didnt cost so much.
Agreed…
No way a fuzz buster video!
I am deaf. Which radar detector is good for the deaf driver on the road? The deaf driver doesn't hear the beep.
Do you run Android or iOS?
@@VortexRadar I use Apple iPhone
are there any radar detectors that exist that only notify you if you're above the speed limit?
Escort radar detectors can do that, but if you just want a speed limit notification like that, you can do that for free in various apps like Waze.
Why nothing was said about Radenso? It was on the list but nothing was mentioned why it’s worse than uniden? I just recently purchased one and thinking about returning and getting uniden. Is it make sense or not? Which benefits I’m getting with uniden vs radenso??
Thank you
That's all explained in this video: ua-cam.com/video/XIGF6rMxQ_M/v-deo.html