The Best Car Police Scanner For 2024
The Rundown
1. Best Overall: Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner
The Uniden BC125AT Handheld Scanner is a great option for the budget-conscious. This handheld scanner provides fast scanning with 1250 channels and 200 programmable memories. It is also compatible with the Uniden Bearcat 2 Tone Operation, which allows users to easily switch between traditional analog or trunking frequencies without ever having to change the radio’s operating mode. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock
The Uniden BC365CRS is a 500-channel conventional analog scanner, FM radio, and all-in-one clock/alarm/calendar with loads of features in a convenient desktop design. This attractive design features a fresh look that's attractive on your desktop and easy to read at night through its clear LCD display. The buttons are nicely laid out for ease of use, so there's no fumbling around in the dark. Read Review
3. Best Efficient: Uniden BC355N 800 MHz 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner
The BC355N is an affordable, professional-quality scanner that provides a 300 channel capacity on both base and mobile frequencies. The BC355N comes with the AC adapter (for powering the BC355N while you’re in your car) and a DC power cable that are included with the purchase. With high sensitivity, wide band coverage and a backlit display, this cheap but effective scanner will make scanning much easier. Read Review
4. Best Convenient: Uniden BCD436HP HomePatrol Series Digital Handheld Scanner
The Uniden BCD436HP HomePatrol Series Digital Handheld Scanner is the perfect tool for monitoring your home and family. Simply turn it on, enter your zip code, and TrunkTracker V does the rest. This functionality is made possible by combining the rich radio system database from Radio Reference with Uniden's patented radio system selection methods to correctly identify and monitor only nearby systems in the USA/Canada. Read Review
Buying a police car scanner is an important decision. Even if you are not a regular user of the police car, it is still prudent to have some way of tracking any criminal or stolen vehicles that you may encounter. However, before you go ahead and commit to a particular brand, there are some things that you need to consider first.
There are many great features that can be found in most police scanner detectors today, but this doesn’t mean that any one radio scanner will meet your needs equally well. However, no matter what your budget or specific needs may be, we’re confident that we can point you in the right direction with our list of the best police car scanners available today.
Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found the Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance. If you're looking for another one, consider Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock.
RELATED: Our team of experts compiled top 10 best budget radar detector by gathering about 6,170 customer reviews. Check them here.
Our Top Picks
- GET STARTED LISTENING RIGHT AWAY with convenient Pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten separate Non -Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Ham, Marine, Railroad, Civil Air, Military Air, CB Radio, FRS/GMRS/MURS, and Racing search bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
- SEARCH MORE EFFICIENTLY with 500 Alpha-Tagged Channels finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 500 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer. Alpha Tagging lets you assign names to your channels, so you can keep track of who you are listening to.
- EXCELLENT HAND-HELD SCANNER (Please note: model BC125AT is NOT suitable for Trunking or Digital Radio system monitoring, (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking systems. If you live in an area where Trunking or Digital Radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (“D” stands for Digital), such as models BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD996P2, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.
- NOTE: The product does not have 2-way communication, is only a scanner for receiving radio transmissions
- LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED, this sophisticated scanner has 500 alpha-tagged channels in a convenient compact design with loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission.
- LIGHTWIEGHT PORTABLE DESIGN, take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features, the orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
- LISTEN TO OVER 40,000 FREQUENCIES, you can listen to both civilian and military bands, including Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.
- CONVENTIONAL ANALOG SCANNER This scanner is NOT for receiving DIGITAL communications (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking communication systems. For Digital Scanners please look at other leading Uniden models.
- 500 CHANNELS: Get started listening right away with convenient pre-sets for the most popular searches, Non-Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Weather reports, Marine, Aircraft, Amateur Radio, Railroad, and other bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
- PRIORITY with DO-NOT-DISTURB: Store your most important frequencies into priority channels. When scanning, these channels are checked every 2 seconds, so you are more likely to catch important activity on these channels.
- ATTRACTIVE DESIGN: Ideal for Home Use. This all-in-one scanner features a fresh design that's attractive on your desktop and easy to read at night through its clear LCD backlit display. The buttons are nicely laid out for ease of use, so there's no fumbling around in the dark.
- BUILT-IN FM RADIO & ALARM CLOCK: Save up to 30 FM stations in preset memories so you can instantly tune to your favorite local broadcast. Alarm Clock with Snooze and Sleep - Set the BC365CRS to wake you to scanning, a weather channel, or your favorite FM station.
- LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED! The Uniden BC365CRS is an affordable 500 channel all-in-one conventional Analog Scanner, Alarm Clock, and FM Radio with loads of features in a convenient desktop design.
- The BC355N features “Close Call RF Capture Technology,” which instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters. This pre-programmed search makes it easier to find active frequencies and helps you stay on top of local happenings and emergencies in your area. 100 ch/sec Scan Speed (max)
- The Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner is one of the most feature packed, user-friendly, entry level scanners available today. It can pick up analog receptions including 6 Service banks for monitoring Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, Marine, Air, Weather, and CB frequencies.
- You can save up to 300 frequencies that are scanned along with the preset frequencies. So whenever you encounter a newly activated local frequency for any service category, you can add it to the bank for that category. This gives you quick access to the frequencies you want to hear.
- If you’re looking for an affordable way to jump into the world of scanners, the BC355N may be the right choice for you. (Please note: model BC355N is not suitable for trunking or digital radio system monitoring. If you live in an area where trunking or digital radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (“D” stands for Digital), such as models BCD996P2, BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.
- The BC355N comes complete with a backlit display, making it easier to read in low light conditions, along with AC adapter, a DC power cable and an automotive power outlet plug, giving you more options for supplying power at home or in your car. Frequency range for aircraft band is AM mode 8.33 STEP (kHz) at 108.0000, 136.9916(Lower and Upper)
- This functionality is made possible by combining the rich radio system database from Radio Reference with Uniden's patented radio system selection methods to correctly identify and monitor only nearby systems in the USA/Canada.
- Whether it is across town or across the street, the BCD436HP keeps you informed. Now with the largest display on the market and more advanced features, the BCD436HP makes a superior unit for the scanner enthusiast..Instant Replay – Plays back up to 240 seconds (4 minutes) of the most recent transmissions..Custom Alerts – You can program your scanner to alert when you receive, a Channel or Unit ID, a Close Call hit, an ID is transmitted with an Emergency Alert, or a Tone-out hit. For each alert in the scanner, you can select from 9 different tone patterns, 15 volume settings, 7 colors, and 3 flash patterns.
- This user-friendly digital scanner will immediately begin receiving communications used by Public Safety, Police, Fire, EMS, Ambulance, Aircraft, Military, Weather, and more.Scan Speed - 85 channels per second
- Simple to operate, no programming needed. Simply turn it on, enter your zip code, and TrunkTracker V does the rest.
- The BCD436HP is the first scanner to incorporate the HomePatrol-1 ease of use in a traditional handheld scanner. Plus, Uniden's exclusive Close Call RF Capture feature, GPS Connectivity, Extra-Large Display, Radio System Analysis and Discover Modes put the most advanced scanner features ever right in the palm of your hand.
- THREE POWER OPTIONS: #1- The included USB cable will power your SR30C from your PC or other USB power source, such as a smart phone USB charger (not included). #2 - Two AA alkaline batteries (not included). #3 - Two AA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries (not included). You can also charge rechargeable Ni-MH batteries in the unit using the USB cable.
- LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED! The Uniden Bearcat SR30C is a very affordable 500 channel hand-held scanner with loads of features in a convenient compact design.
- PC PROGRAMING lets you program your scanner using your PC. Close call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Priority Scan function Scans the channels you have designated as priority channels. Memory backup keeps the frequencies stored in memory for an extended time if the scanner loses power
- EXCELLENT ENTRY LEVEL PORTABLE SCANNER This scanner is NOT for receiving DIGITAL communications (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking communication systems. For Digital Scanners please look at other leading Uniden models such as the BCD436HP.
- LISTEN TO OVER 32,000 FREQUENCIES: Get started listening right away with convenient pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten service banks, Non-Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, NOAA Weather reports, Marine, Racing, Civil Aircraft, Ham Radio, Railroad, CB Radio, and other bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
- DELAY FUNCTION helps prevent missed replies during two-way conversations. Other features include keypad entry, Earphone Jack, key lock, battery low alert, battery save. The triple-conversion design ensures excellent Performance.
- Digital AGC - Instantly compensates for low user audio levels that are common on digital systems
- Scans most common trunked radio system signaling formats, including Motorola, EDACS, LTR and P25 trunked radio networks. Both talkgroup and individual call monitoring are supported
- Free-Form Memory Organization - Allocation of memory dynamically and efficiently as it is needed. This differs from low cost and older scanners that had memory organized in rigid and wasteful memory banks
- Scan List-functionality allows you to arrange, group and scan objects according to your preference. Memory Backup - Frequencies remain stored in memory for an extended time even without batteries.
- Menu Driven Programming with Context Sensitive Help - Each menu item provides a few lines of help text that provide assistance with programming and using the scanner
- Skywarn Storm Spotter Function - Instant access to frequencies used by storm spotter networks. Multi-System Trunking. Tune - Find new and unlisted frequencies starting from a specified frequency
- Before purchasing, please confirm whether the communication you want to receive is Digital or Analog. The BCT15X is Not a Digital scanner
- 100 system Quick Keys with 10-channel group Quick Keys per system; system/channel number tagging for rapid access.Continuous Band Coverage* - 25MHz to 1.3GHz Excluding UHF TV and Cellular
- Mobile BearTracker scanner with 9,000 Channels, advanced dynamic memory system, close call RF capture technology, and more. Compatible with BC-RH96 Remote Head
- State-by-state preprogrammed channels for local police, DOT, and Highway Patrol frequencies when you travel, without having to program
- Location-Based scanning automatically selects programmed systems based on your location when connected to a compatible GPS receiver
- TrunkTracker III technology lets you can keep up with the action on Motorola, EDACS and LTR systems. Individual channel volume offset. Alpha Tagging
- GPS Location-Based Scanning, connect this scanner to an optional GPS receiver and it will automatically select programmed systems based on your exact location. You'll save time by scanning only the local signals.
- System / Channel Number Tagging - provides rapid access to a specific system or channel
- DCS/CTCSS Rapid Decode - Instantly Detects and Displays the Sub audible Tone So You Can Quickly Determine the System Settings.
- Scan and search 25,000 channels. With Close Call RF capture technology, this scanner will automatically tune to the signals nearest you, so you can keep track of what's going on in your area.
- Quick-Key System Access (100 Keys), allows you to quickly access the systems you us the most often. Uniden Police Scanners feature simple to set up keys to the systems you want to hear. Press them to enable or disable the system.
- The BCD325P2 comes equipped with Uniden exclusive features like Advanced Dynamic Memory System, Close Call RF Capture Technology, and GPS compatibility. It also includes support for the latest APCO Project 25 Phase II systems.
- S.A.M.E. Weather Alert, supports Specific Area Message Encoding weather alerts. During a NOAA Weather or Emergency Alert, a code for your specific location will alert you to severe conditions in your immediate area.
- SDS100: Li-Ion battery
- SDS100: Improved UI with 3 contextual soft keys that Change function based on the current operation
- SDS100: Rugged/ weather resistant jis 4 construction
- SDS100: True I/Q receiver design for improved digital performance in weak-signal and simulcast areas
- SDS100: Customizable color LCD: user can modify color and what is displayed
- Location Control for Simple Operation
- 3. 5" Customizable Color Display
- Complete USA/Canada Radio Database
- True I/Q Receiver, Trunk Tracker X
- Direct Ethernet Connectivity for Streaming and Control
To Choose The best car police scanner, What Criteria Do You Need To Study Before?
Almost all buyers are anxious about getting best car police scanner. Whenever creating multiple purchases, various issues need to be resolved. Our market expertise will give you help to make the best shopping selection.
Please consider the following factors before selecting best car police scanner:
Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) Filtering
Range
Filtering
Ease Of Use
Take a look at Best Reviews' buying guide to find the top radar detectors.
Compatible Apps
Smartphone Or GPS Connectivity
Laser Speed Coverage
FAQs
Is It Illegal To Have A Radar Detector In Your Vehicle?
The Electronic Code of Federal Regulations states that radar detectors in Washington D.C. (and Virginia) are prohibited. Radar detectors are prohibited in all areas, including commercial vehicles and military bases. California and Minnesota do not allow windshield mounts. You should check your state regulations before you buy. Although they may be illegal in certain areas, installing a radar detector in your car doesn't constitute a violation of the law. Insurance companies won't punish drivers who have one.Do Radar Detectors Work For Laser Speed Guns?
The simple answer is no. You can be notified when you're being struck with a laser gun. However, by the time that your detector tells you, a police officer has already got your speed. It's basically useless, other than letting you know when you are about to be ticketed. Ask me how I know.Can Radar Detectors Drain My Car Battery?
It depends on the car. Some cars continue to supply power from the 12V outlet, which is where most portable radar detectors are located. To be certain, check the specific model.What Is Low-speed Muting?
If you're driving in a city, radar signals may not be needed. Some detectors can mute alerts if you are driving below a certain speed. This helps to keep the detector silent when not in use.Are Radar Detectors Worth It?
If you regularly travel by car, a good radar detector can be very useful. If the detector alerts you before you are clocked and pulled over by a police officer, you might be able to recover your costs.How Far Can Police Radar Detect Your Speed?
The size and form of the vehicle that is being tracked will affect its radar range. A full-size pickup could detect speed from more than a mile, while a small, low sports car might bounce back such weak signals that it needs to be located within 500 feet for radar detection.Can I Get A Ticket For Mounting A Radar Detector To My Windshield?
Potentially. California, for example, restricts the area of windshield that can accommodate items that could obscure your view. Blendmount offers a more durable mounting option for rearview mirrors. It is also cleaner looking and can be permanently mounted.How Will My Radar Detector Notify Me?
There are many ways that different radar detectors can alert you to the presence of a gun. The lower-end radar detectors will emit a loud beeping sound, while the higher-end ones will give a spoken explanation.Since merchandising consultant pros have a wide variety of expertise, the information above is presumed to be accurate. The data of best car police scanner is also updated on a regular basis. You may feel confident that the data is current and accurate.
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