Radar detectors can be useful in everyday life. For one thing, nobody wants to be fined for speeding, but even the most conscientious driver can let their concentration slip and let that speedo needle creep up. However, the law is the law, and if you’re caught by a speed camera, you’ll no doubt be served with a hefty fine. Happily, however, manufacturers like OOONO, and a number of others, offer radar detectors that can help you out.
And while you can appeal your fine, it is a long and laborious process you could really do without, and there’s no guarantee you’ll be successful. So why take the risk in the first place when a radar detector can give you ample warning and allow you to safely adjust your speed?
Some modern cars come with cruise control that will make sure you don’t wander over the limit, but sometimes, with variable traffic density and flow, you can find yourself speeding up and slowing down too often to use the cruise control, so a radar detector can be there to keep you in check.
The best radar detectors at a glance:
There are various different types of radar detectors: some will alert you to the position of fixed-speed cameras (some can also detect mobile ones). Some are GPS-based and will know when a speed camera is nearby, while others use radar to detect the signals coming from police speed detectors. Some are even compatible with smartphones, like a number of car key trackers.
The best radar detectors 2025
The best radar detector
The OOONO community works by having different users of the device press the button in their respective areas before that data is then shared to other devices, so they know what's coming should they approach that same stretch of road. The Co-Driver No.2 also differs from the Co-Driver because it's compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. So, if you want to receive your OOONO warnings on your infotainment screen, you have the option to do so.
Pros
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Compatible
- Picks up speed cameras and other hazards without being distracting
- Immensely easy to use and no subscription required
Cons
- Magnetic mount for the device isn't included
Editor's pick
Depending on which subscription you go for, the Pure One will connect to the UK’s Highways England agency for enhanced information while on the motorway, and it informs of mobile camera locations whether the camera is live or not. For live mobile cameras it will alert you. In my experience I found the distance stated (to the hazard) was slightly off, and after passing the hazard you’re always asked if the hazard, like a speed camera, is still present. This is how the system remains up to date.
If you’re ever unsure about the speed limit on any particular road then the Pure One uses GPS to let you know, and further to this it also displays your speed. I found the speed to be accurate compared to the Waze app, despite a minimal delay when accelerating or braking. It has a lovely design, with only two buttons to press; the power button and mute button – the latter of which I found very useful as the voice warnings can be loud, abrupt, and annoying to most drivers.
You do have to purchase a subscription, which is an added expenditure beyond the hefty initial cost of the unit, but as a versatile radar detector The Pure One is brilliant piece of kit.
Pros
- Intuitive to use
- LCD screen is useful
- Variety of hazards detected
Cons
- Requires a subscription
The best simple radar detector
The No.1 has gathered data from over 80 countries, meaning it's more than capable of spotting speed cameras, road hazards and more. There's no subscription to worry about either, so you can simply just turn it on and go.
Pros
- Very easy to use, thanks to simplistic design
- Gathered data from over 80 countries
- Perfect device to warn you of speed cameras and other hazards
Cons
- Not quite as comprehensive and up to date as its successor, the Co-Driver No.2
The best mount for OOONO devices
It simply mounts on your air vent and comes with a sticky pad which you attach a metal disc to. After this small matter of assembly is complete, can you begin to use it.
Pros
- Perfect magnetic holder for smartphones as well as OOONO devices
- Great value for money at only £9
- Compact and easy to mount onto your air vents
Cons
- Requires a little bit of assembly
The most comprehensive radar detector
It can also display what speed you're doing as well as tell you how far away the hazard is. It is a subscription-based radar, but you do get a 12-month trail as part of the purchase. Unfortunately however, a charging cable is sold separately and not included in this setup.
Pros
- Very comprehensive unit and very clear to read
- Connects to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Includes a 12-month subscription
Cons
- Charging cable sold separately
The best compact radar detector with a display
Pros
- Easy to install and read
- Very comprehensive setup
- No subscription with this model
Cons
- Requires a smartphone
- Not Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatible
Best sat-nav detector
It's not a standalone radar detector, but it's a great option if you want a separate sat nav that has hazard warnings integrated into it.
Pros
- Speed detection and sat-nav
- Built-in WiFi connectivity
- Keeps you informed of road hazards
Cons
- Updates can be slow
Best budget radar detector
It can also warn you of accidents and dangerous conditions ahead. You can also get an official mount so you can fit it on one of your car’s air vents.
Pros
- Compact and discreet device
- No subscription is needed
- Good value for money
Cons
- No interface
- Lacks a laser detector
Best dashcam detector
Pros
- You get a dashcam as well as a warning device
- Good quality unit with a load of features
- Many other safety features besides speed camera detector
Cons
- Set-up can be time-consuming
Best detector with safety features
Pros
- Easy-to-read screen
- Allows for hands-free calling
- Lots of safety features
Cons
- Mounting can be difficult
FAQs
What is the best radar detector?
Based on our deep levels of research, we concluded that the best radar detector you can buy is the OOONO Co-Driver No.2. It blends simplicity with ingenuity and value for money, and those combined qualities are exactly what we value most in a bit of car tech. It’s totally distraction-free, too – which helps when you need to focus on the road.
Are radar detectors legal in the UK?
Yes, you are allowed to purchase and use a radar detector under UK law in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. There was speculation that they could be banned, but no legislation has been presented so far.
However, some police forces consider using a laser jammer – which is a different bit of kit to a radar detector – to be perverting the course of justice, which comes with a hefty fine and even jail time in severe instances.
Are radar detectors legal in Europe?
In most of Europe, radar detectors are illegal. Such countries include France, Spain, Italy, and Germany and have different extents of fines and punishments, including having the device confiscated and potentially your licence, too.
In essence, if you’re planning a trip to mainland Europe or the Republic of Ireland, we highly recommend you leave your radar detector at home and keep it for UK use only.
Which countries are radar detectors legal in Europe?
The list of countries that allow the use of radar detectors in Europe is as follows: UK, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Iceland, and Lithuania.
Are radar detectors any good?
The simple answer is yes. There are a number of good quality units on the marketplace. It wholly depends on whether you need a helping hand at spotting speed cameras or other potential hazards.
If you’re driving on unfamiliar roads, the case for a radar detector is greater than your everyday commute. But the main thing to look out for is whether the device you’re investing in requires any subscription of any kind. Some will do without them, whereas some – much like some magnetic car trackers – will require payment after a certain period of time.
The other aspect – especially when referring to those compatible with Apple Car Play and Android Auto – is how much information you want displayed on a screen. Some people’s preference of on-screen information will differ from others, so it’s worth considering how simple you want your device to really be.
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