Best Uniden Radar Detectors Reviews (2022)
Uniden is indeed a fantastic company to go to for durable and dependable radar detectors. They have offered significant models even before the breakthrough Uniden R3 and R1 and even before they took a break from radar detector manufacture operations.
The models usually come by pairs—one with GPS capabilities and the other one without. Here are some of the greatest Uniden radar detectors you should know about:
Table of Contents
Top 8 Uniden Radar Detectors – Reviews & Buying Guide
1 – Uniden R7
Specifications:
- Extremely Long Range Capability
- Dual Antennas + Directional Arrows
- GPS with Red Light and Speed Camera Alerts
- Voice Alerts
The Uniden R7 beefed up Uniden R3’s best features and elevated user-experience overall. Uniden R7 was made to be a long-range radar detector, and it beats most competition when it comes to detection range.
In terms of detecting radar bands, it performs sharply—rarely missing the most common bands used by traffic enforcers. Speed Camera alerts on this device is on point as well, although the same cannot be said about its laser detection.
- Directional arrows determine where the signal is coming from
- Can smartly ignore false positives
- Has a GPS Auto lockout feature
- Device is tilted towards the driver for easier view
- Long-range detection than any of the Uniden detectors
- Mostly great for professional users; might be confusing to operate for beginners
Different driving modes are available with this device, which is also customizable as you can manually adjust the sensitivity settings depending on your preference.
It comes with a neoprene carrying case, to protect its huge full-color OLED while on transport.
From its sturdy build to RDD invisibility, plus the essentials most are looking for in a detector (range, false filtering, speed camera alerts, voice notifications, and GPS capability), we deem Uniden R7 as the best detector ever made by Uniden.
2 – Uniden R3
Specifications:
- 360 Degree Digital Signal Processor
- K False Filter / KA False Filter
- GPS With Red Light Camera Alerts
- Quiet Ride – User Set Speed Auto Mute
The R3 has a dual antenna that enables a longer range of detection. Dubbed as the “Range King” before Uniden R7 was introduced, Uniden R3 (and R1) has quite a dynamic range.
It also carries the 360 Degrees Digital Signal Processor, a technology that ensures detection accuracy and protection from all sides.
Bearing the GPS chipset of Uniden, it is accurate in determining GPS location, and reactive to varying speeds. The Automute function in this model comes in handy too, which lessens false warnings in certain places.
- Great detection range and accuracy
- Setup is simple and easily understandable for beginners
- Easy-to-read colored display
- Automute feature ensures quiet rides
- Dependable false alert filtering system
- Backlight of front buttons can be improved
- No auto-dimming option
It also comes with an intelligent filtering system that allows it to discern whether a signal is authentic or not.
The only thing that we believe can be improved is the backlight of the buttons facing the front, as well as a possible handy “auto-dimming option”. But aside from these preferential things, Uniden R3 works awesome on the road. Check out out our full review for more details.
3 – Uniden R1
Specifications:
- 360 Degree Digital Signal Processor
- Color OLED Display
- K False Filter / KA False Filter
- Extreme Radar Sensitivity
Uniden R1 is a more economic version of R3, and while it doesn’t have the GPS capability that the R3 has, it delivers excellent detection performance, especially in the Ka range.
You’ll have the option to mute the alerts for a peaceful drive ahead. While it doesn’t have a GPS feature, its advantage is its lower price point, compared to the first two featured detectors.
- Quick switch to different driving modes makes it convenient to use
- Impressive Ka-band detection
- Quick notifications allow ample time to change speed
- Radar sensitivity is topnotch
- Features an OLED Display
- The mount that comes with it isn’t the best in quality
With the R1 you’ll get most of the features of the R3, including the Digital Signal Processor (DSP), which enhances range, accuracy, and authenticity altogether.
It is also great for low key rides, rarely detected by radar detector detectors (RDDs). Even the latest Spectre Elite device of road enforcers couldn’t detect this device.
Read our full Uniden R1 Review here: https://www.ratedradardetector.org/uniden/r1-review/.
4 – Uniden DFR7
Specifications:
- MAX Speed Warning System
- Ultra-Performance, Super Long Range Laser Radar Detection
- GPS Built-In with Red Light Camera Alert and Speed Camera Alert
- Ultra-Bright OLED Display
The Uniden DFR7 can both detect radar and laser signals, and it can perform well enough to match the newer detectors’ features.
It doesn’t fail on sensing speed traps even those from far up front or behind, while its built-in GPS function also monitors the car’s speed and works with the Overspeed alert feature to warn the driver when he is going beyond the legal speed limit.
- Speed camera alerts
- Screen display is bright and shows information clearly
- It comes with a suction mount
- Features an advanced K/Ka Band Filtering
- Good price for a detector with GPS
- Alerts might be too loud for some
Uniden DFR7 is also a very budget-friendly detector that has adequate features and above-average performance, so it is a hit for newbies and mid-level users.
Getting this model would lift a giant worry upon the shoulders of any driver, especially those who reside in the city.
Read the full Uniden DFR7 review.
5 – Uniden DFR6
Specifications:
- Ultra-Bright OLED Display
- Ultra-Performance, Super Long Range Laser Radar Detection
- Advanced K Band Filter
- Separate Signal Strength Meter
- Radar Band Frequency Display
As the “sister detector” of DFR7, Uniden DFR6 is an affordable detector that offers a long range protection. Its advanced K filter makes it a pretty reliable detector on the road.
The Uniden DFR6 (fully reviewed here) is very convenient to use as well, with its bright OLED Display with radar band frequency monitor and a signal strength meter.
- Great band filters (especially with K & Ka bands)
- Has different tones for audible alerts to distinguish signals that the device picks up
- Simple and easy to use; great for beginners
- Decent detection range for daily drives
- Signal strength is included on display
- Startup audio/voice may be annoying for some
For a low price point of less than $200, it is packed with great features including less false alarm, great design and a good range of detection. It has almost the same capabilities as DFR7, minus GPS features, but it also has a long-range warning capacity.
Band filtering is also possible with this device, plus a display that gives clear and accurate details. While GPS settings would be critical for some, the features added into this radar detector is more than enough for daily threat protection.
6 – Uniden DFR9
Specifications:
- Provides Long Radar Detection Range
- Built-in GPS (Redlight and Speed Camera Alerts)
- Advanced K-band false signal rejection and filtering
- Digital Navigator™ Electronic Compass
- VG-2 Undetectability
Uniden DFR9 replaced the DFR7 is the main model of Uniden. With GPS that detects red light and fixed speed cameras was added to the design, it delivers great performance and very reliable alerts.
The DFR9 comes at a fair price point and but good performance level. While its BSM filtering is the same as the older DFR7, a home-run for this gadget is the impressive K-band filtering that avoids collision and lane departure systems.
- Affordable price
- Automatic adjustment of screen brightness depending on the time of the day
- Can compete with higher-priced detectors when it comes to range
- Display is crystal clear
- Some would prefer buying an external mount over the not-so-great mount that it comes with
Uniden DFR9 is also easily programmable, so customization for your driving needs won’t be a problem. Clicking the menu button will enable many options on the screen, including brightness, filtering setup, and sensitivity.
With all these features, the Uniden DFR9 is also packaged with complete accessories like dual suction cup mounts, windshield mount, power cable (12 volts) with USB port, as well as a detailed manual.
See our in-depth review of the DFR9: https://www.ratedradardetector.org/uniden/dfr9-review/.
7 – Uniden DFR8
- 360° Laser Detection
- K Filter (CAS filtering)
- Advanced Sensitivity Mode (user adjustable sensitivity by the band)
- City/Highway Modes
- Firmware & Database Updates
Simultaneously released with DFR9, the Uniden DFR8 is the GPS-less version of the DFR9. This detector has a very sophisticated design, especially compared to its contemporaries.
It also provides great protection from RDDs, as it is invisible to VG2. It is also stealth to Spectre RDD outside 5 meters, rendering any driver almost undetectable.
While it lacks the GPS feature, it can prevent fake threats by locking out and ignoring false alerts.
- 360-degree protection
- Sensitivity levels can be adjusted by user
- Great for beginners
- Undetectable by radar detector detectors
- Great price
- Great to use in the US, but performance may vary in other countries
The uncomplicated operation of this device also makes it perfect for radar detector new users, complete with basic components and features that would satisfy those who are tired of speeding tickets.
All in all, with a price that’s not too heavy for the pocket, the Uniden DFR8 is a reliable detector to suit an average driver’s needs. Check the full Uniden DFR8 Review.
Some more specific comparisons
Uniden DFR9 VS. Uniden R3
Not sure if you should get the Uniden DFR9 or Uniden R3? The Uniden R3 and the Uniden DFR9 are both good radar detectors with small differences. The R3 is more popular and has better range and extra features, but the DFR9 is cheaper and will still do a good job.
Our Top Pick – Uniden R7
The winner as the best Uniden radar detector is undoubtedly Uniden R7. Considering all aspects and features of the detectors, the R7 has proven its superior performance over its brothers from the brand.
Packed with features and technology that ensures least false alarms, on point radar detection, long range capability, and overall user experience, R7 remains unparalled by any of other Uniden detector today.
William Johnson is the owner and founder of RatedRadarDetector.org. He writes about car accessories, with his passion stemming from a deep enthusiasm for all things automotive. His website, RRD, focuses on in-depth reviews of car accessories to help people find the best and latest products in the market.
