Best Escort Radar Detector Reviews
No one likes speeding tickets. The hefty fines you have to pay plus the points on your driver’s license costs money and causes hassle. While you should not drive over the speed limit wherever you’re driving, there are times when you need to go somewhere fast.
Obviously, you don’t want to see red and blue flashing lights from law enforcement in your rearview mirror. Thankfully, there are radar detectors on the market that will alert you if there are any police scanning the area so you’d have time to slow down and keep your speed in check. With radar detectors, you’d have a safer drive.
When it comes to the best radar detectors, Escort has always been a favorite brand of many because they are easy to use and equipped with advanced features.
You need not worry if you’ve never used a radar detector before since they’re beginner-friendly. Escort offers a complete array of radar detectors, from entry-level to high-end. So whether you want a basic functional unit or a top bells-and-whistles product, you can never go wrong with the protection Escort provides.
This buying guide puts together the best Escort radar detectors that is sure to satisfy different types of users. In search of the most reliable Escort radar detector, we highlighted each device’s primary features and outlined their pros and cons to help you avoid trouble with law enforcement.
Table of Contents
Top 5 Escort Radar Detectors – Reviews & Comparison
1 – Escort Max 360c – Best Overall
Brimming with convenient functions, the Max 360c offers a robust feature set that even the most meticulous drivers will love. It’s an improvement on the Escort Max 360, another best radar and laser detector in the line. The primary difference between the Escort Max 360 and Max360c is the latter’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. The Escort Max 360 provides all the advanced features of the 360c except for connectivity ones. If that’s something you want in a radar laser detector, then it’s best to choose this one over the Escort Max 360.
Long range radar and laser detection is a given with a detector in this price range, so that’s a no-brainer for the 360c. What sets it apart from its competitors is the best-in-class false alert filtering. It accurately detects stationary false alerts that may come from various sources like speed signs, automatic door openers, and even those orange digital construction signs. If you’re not new to using a radar laser detector, you’d know those false threats are very annoying.
The AutoLearn Technology on the Max 360c automatically locks out stationary false alerts that can you frequently encounter. So if you pass by a certain place on your everyday commute that gives off erroneous alarms, this radar detector recognizes that signal and filters it out. GPS makes this possible. Other radar detectors need you to manually press a lockout button to shut off incorrect alerts, but the Max 360c does it on its own. Pretty convenient, huh?
This radar detector offers a super bright OLED display that’s easy to read in any light condition. When you look at the screen, there are directional arrows that help determine where a threat is coming from — front, back, or sides. That way, you’ll know whether you’re approaching or have already passed a police officer. Knowing where the speed gun signal is originating from is useful for both experienced and inexperienced users.
In addition to radar detection, it offers built-in alerts that notify you of red light and speed cameras ahead.
But what really makes the 360c shine is its Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functions. That’s actually the reason why it’s called Max 360c, as “c” stands for “connected”. Cloud integration is one of the great things about this radar detector because it can update its firmware and database. You get updated locations of red light cameras and speed cameras as well. This does it all on its own through Wi-Fi. No more unplugging your detector and connecting it to your computer just for updates. And with the Bluetooth function, you can connect the 360c to your phone and access the Escort Live app. This allows you to get real-time updates and warnings from other Escort users about incidents on the road, introducing you to a community of drivers with the same goal of avoiding speed tickets. If you have Wi-Fi installed in your car, it would be even better since you don’t need your phone to connect to Escort Live. The 360c will do that on its own.
Overall, the Escort Max 360c is an extremely reliable and durable radar detector that’s worth every penny. It has a price tag of $579.95 as of writing.
You can also check out one of Escort’s latest releases that builds on the Max 360c’s success, which is the Escort Redline 360C.
- Long range radar and laser detection
- Accurate false filters
- Automatic GPS lockouts and updates
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- Expensive
2 – Escort iXc – Best Value
If the features of the Max360c or even the Escort Max360 got you excited but you don’t want to speed too much on an Escort radar detector, then the Escort iXc is perfect for you.
The iXc is actually an improved version of the Escort iX. Unfortunately, the company announced that the Escort iX was being discontinued in light of the introduction of the iXc. Better sensitivity and refined accuracy are the primary enhancements of the iXc from the Escort iX, thanks to the new M4+ platforms that make it 3-4dB more sensitive than its predecessor. Nevertheless, it’s not as good as the devices in the higher spectrum of Escort radar detectors — just something to keep in mind.
The Escort iXc can detect X, K, and Super Ka radar bands faster, giving you more time to go below the speed limit. It can also detect POP radar guns, which release extremely short bursts of radar. POP radar is designed to effectively catch overspeeding individuals by using these short bursts so it will be too late for drivers to slow down by the time their radar detector sounds an alert. The iXc goes around that so you’re fully protected on the road.
The iXc offers Escort’s patented AutoLearn tech, so false threats are automatically canceled out. Escort takes it a step further from the Escort iX by having an improved In-Vehicle Filtering Technology (IVT) — another patented feature. The IVT filter works together with AutoLearn by blocking out blind spot monitoring systems (BSM) and advanced driver-assistance systems. Many radar detectors in the market haven’t improved on this, causing a lot of annoying false alerts on the road. The iXc is one of the Escort radar detectors that possess remarkably accurate false alert filtering systems so you won’t be bombarded by beeps all the time.
Like the first detector discussed in this buying guide, the iXc also has a bunch of automated features that make driving convenient. For one, the device’s sensitivity levels automatically adjust depending on your speed. If you’re driving on the highway, it’s more sensitive. If you’re going at a low speed, it’s less sensitive. This radar detector also mutes itself when you’re driving slow, so you’d have a noise-free drive. Automatic GPS lockouts have been discussed previously, but it’s worth another mention as one of the “smart” features of the iXc. All in all, these features help a lot in shutting off false alarms that many radar detector users know all too well.
Now let’s get into the connectivity options. The iXc follows the steps of the Max 360c with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi functions. That’s one of the main improvements over the Escort iX. With Bluetooth, you’re able to connect your phone to the radar detector and access the Escort Live app. You get valuable crowdsourced information on road conditions and speed trap locations so you get real-time protection while driving. That being said, it’s not necessary to connect your phone because the iXc is Wi-Fi compatible, meaning the radar detector itself can connect to the app if you have Wi-Fi in your car. Again, more convenience on your part.
When it comes to updating the firmware, Wi-Fi plays a crucial part. The Escort iXc is able to update itself automatically. You don’t have to take it out of the car and plug into your computer at home to update the firmware and database. This radar detector does that all by itself.
The iXc is $100 cheaper than the 360c, so what’s the difference? Definitely, the latter is superior when it comes to range and how sensitive it is to signals. There are also no directional arrows on the iXc, but that’s not a dealbreaker if you want to save some cash. But the most striking distinction between the two involves the alerts. Usually, with mid-range Escort radar detectors, alerts start with a loud beeping and slowly weakens until the signal is no longer a threat. Furthermore, there are customizable voice alerts that help you focus on the road so you don’t need to look at the screen. The iXc, however, has alerts that are quite loud and don’t automatically drop. That can be annoying for some drivers, but it doesn’t necessarily make the iXc unworthy of attention.
On the whole, the Escort iXc is a radar detector that gives you the best value for your money. It’s an improvement on the Escort iX, but it doesn’t quite have the same power as those in the Max series.
- Offers better sensitivity than the Escort iX
- Common police radar bands and laser are detected
- IVT and AutoLearn technology effectively filters out false alerts
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
- GPS feature
- Can be used with an Escort dash cam
- No directional arrows that tell you whether a signal is coming from the front, back, or sides
- Alerts don’t automatically drop
3 – Escort X80 – Best Budget
Escort’s mid-range and upper range radar detectors do deliver consistent performance to ensure you don’t get that dreaded speeding ticket. But if you’re not much into all the extra features and you’re searching for an Escort radar detector that fits the budget, the Escort Passport X80 is one of the best budget radar detectors in the market.
An improvement on the discontinued Escort X70, the X80 features Bluetooth-compatibility, quick detection, and audible voice alerts. By design, the X80 has an OLED multi-color display similar to the previous detectors in this buying guide. It’s quite easy to look at and read. External controls are easy to understand and operate as this radar detector is made with the beginner in mind. It also has a solid dual suction cup mount that keeps the detector strongly in place on your windshield.
The Escort Passport X80 promises lightning-fast response times in detecting X, K, Ka, Super Ka, and Pop radar bands. As such, you’d always have ample time to slow down. Its sensitivity to different kinds of police radar bands has a drawback though, as its false filtering systems are not so good. The device tries to compromise by having Ka-band segmentation, but that has limitations too. As such, the Escort Passport X80 is not exactly the best escort radar detector for reducing false alerts.
The absence of a GPS chip also means it can’t automatically lock out any stationary false signals. You also can’t expect notifications if there is a red light camera or speed camera in place due to the absence of the database. However, you can go around the GPS issue by connecting your phone and going on the Escort Live app. There, you can use your phone’s GPS and get sharing abilities plus red light/speed cam warnings. You can also get real-time road news and free updates through the app, as these are provided by a large network of Escort users. If you’re worried about false alarms, you can always teach the X80 the manual way by pressing the lockout button in the app or pressing the mute button for a quiet drive.
Despite some drawbacks, the X80 is otherwise the best budget choice for a radar detector. It has reliable radar and laser detection, Bluetooth-connectivity, access to the Escort app, and clear voice alerts. You will hear what kind of alarm is going off so you don’t have to look at the screen.
If you’re not a power user and you’re only looking for something that will keep the speeding ticket away, then the X80 is a good product among the line of Escort radar detectors. Read RRD’s full review here.
- Fast signal detection
- Bluetooth-compatible
- Audible warnings so you can keep your focus on the road
- Affordable price in the Escort lineup
- Not very good at filtering false alarms
- No GPS
4 – Escort Redline Ex – Best Stealth
While a radar detector works to detect police radar guns, there are also what we call radar detector detectors that work to detect if you’re using a radar detector. Take note that radar detectors may be illegal in some states, so make sure to consult your local state laws before purchasing one.
Moving back, radar detector detectors are used by the authorities to catch individuals who are using a radar detector while driving. You can’t underestimate their technology either. They now use something called Spectre, making users of detectors more susceptible to radar detection. Thankfully, companies like Escort continue to innovate, and they’ve stepped up to create undetectable radar detectors.
The Escort Redline Ex is a top of the line product that’s made for ultimate stealth. It’s equipped with a patented TotalShield RF technology, making it entirely undetectable by VG-2 and Spectre models, even the Elite. Other detectors may have their own cloaking features, but Redline Ex remains the king of invisibility.
Undetectability is not the only good thing about the Redline Ex. It actually has an advanced feature set that makes it one of Escort’s most-loved and positively-reviewed units. For starters, the Redline Ex has front and rear antennas, giving you full 360-degree protection all around the vehicle. This placement significantly helps for early warnings of any radar recognition. Amazingly, the Redline Ex is also capable of detecting MultaRadar, a relatively new radar gun that’s difficult to distinguish.
Like the radar detectors on the higher end of the Escort Spectrum, the Redline Ex has the intelligent AutoLearn feature that accurately rejects false alarms. An IVT filter is also built-in for added protection. A bunch of automatic features is also packed into this detector, including auto-display brightness and auto-sensitivity adjustments for high-speed and low-speed driving — making things super easy.
Finally, Bluetooth connectivity allows free access to the Escort Live app so you can get info on locations of speed cameras, red light cameras, speed traps, and real-time road updates from fellow Escort users.
- Undetectable
- 360-degree protection with front and rear antennas
- IVT filter
- AutoLearn
- Bluetooth
- A bit expensive
- No Wi-Fi
- No directional arrows
5 – Escort Solo S4 – Best Cordless
Yes, you read that right. Escort has a cordless radar detector.
The Escort Solo S4 runs on a pair of AA batteries, although you can plug it in, too. This is just a convenient power option if you’re someone who switches vehicles or uses rental vehicles a lot. With the Escort Solo S4, setup is made a whole lot easier. Simply attach the radar detector to the windshield or dashboard and you’re done. No ugly cable hanging down.
Power conservation is the highlight of this radar detector from Escort. Battery life spans 30-40 hours before you need to replace the batteries. It also conserves battery by automatically switching off after the vehicle has stopped for more than 25 minutes.
However, the attractive option to go cordless is met with some drawbacks. The Escort Solo S4 is not the best in terms of range and sensitivity levels are concerned. With a pretty basic feature set, the Solo S4 is also not outfitted with modern false alert filters like its upperclassmen in the Escort lineup.
Despite some limitations, the Solo S4 still works to provide sufficient protection in the city and other urban environments. You can also set the detector to be used on different driving modes including Auto, Highway, and City. This helps to identify the appropriate range that the Solo S4 must use.
In a nutshell, if you’re after the convenience of constantly relocating your radar detector, the Escort Solo S4 is a good choice. Armed with primary detector features, this device is enough for drivers who don’t go above the speed limit very often.
- Cordless
- Offers convenient setup and transfers
- Limited range
Our Top Pick – Escort Max 360c
If you absolutely want the best radar detector that Escort can offer, go for the Escort Max 360c. It provides great range, remarkably accurate filters for false alarms, automatic GPS lockouts, and top of the line performance and protection. Bluetooth compatibility and Wi-Fi function both open up more usage possibilities for this radar detector. Escort Live app also allows you to access a network of fellow Escort users who share real-time updates about road conditions. You can either choose to use your phone for the app or let the detector connect to the cloud all by itself. Firmware and database updates are also automatic with this device, significantly reducing the hassle of manually connecting your device to a computer at home.
The 360c is the best Escort radar detector in the market because it delivers on its promises. Albeit the hefty price tag, this is one of those devices that is worth every penny. It brings to the table some of the most beneficial features you can ever ask for in a radar detector. Without a doubt, the Escort Max 360c deserves the spot as our top pick.
How to Choose a Radar Detector
Choosing just one device among the best radar detectors can throw you into confusion and information overload, as there’s an ocean of brands and models out there. They’re not exactly cheap either, so you must think carefully about which one is most suitable for you. Here are some of the things to consider before making a final purchase:
Range
Long range radar detection will give you more time to slow down, giving you better chances of avoiding a speed ticket. The coverage usually depends on the quality of antennas. So if you want the longest range possible, a radar detector with front and rear antennas would be the way to go. Some radar detectors are able to detect as far as 5 miles. And if you want to avoid the law enforcement, it’s good to choose a radar detector with top of the line range.
Ability to detect false alarms
Roads are flooded with false signals that can send your radar detector going off and give you an irritable drive. It’s not only radar guns from law enforcement that give off radar signals, but also automatic door openers, blind spot monitoring systems, ADAS, and more. Although not necessarily a protection feature, it’s good to choose a detector that can filter these for quiet drive.
Design
A well-designed radar detector may make or break your entire user experience. In some cases, a smaller vehicle needs a smaller detector. Sometimes, it can even affect the performance of the device. Choose an Escort radar detector that has a well-lit screen and good-feeling controls for easy operation. If you can easily look at the screen and read what’s on there, it makes everything easier.
Customer service and warranty
Escort radar detectors all come with a 12-month warranty that could be extended for up to 36 months. But one of the best options that the company provides is that some units have a limited ticket guarantee. This means if you get a radar or laser speeding ticket with their device, Escort itself will pay for it. That’s incredible demonstration of the company’s confidence in its radar detection technology!
Price
Price is always something to consider, but should not be the determining factor. Radar detectors are available at different models. Some units have a below-$100 price tag and some can go higher than $500. As always, do your research and check the quality of the detector you’re going to buy. Cheaper models often don’t have the same modern features of the more expensive units. Then again, there are more affordable radar detectors that can match the protection of higher-end detectors.
Conclusion
Speeding tickets are one of the frustrating things on a driver’s list of things they don’t want to happen on the road. Radar detectors help avoid that by effectively identifying speed gun signals to alert you of any cops checking if vehicles are following the limit.
Now, there are many radar detectors on the market. Of the numerous brands, Escort is one of the reputable and most trusted ones in the radar detector playing field, primarily due to the protection they provide. Choosing an Escort radar detector will definitely be a wise move on your part. They offer reliable performance, innovative technology, and robust features to give you accurate alarms and notifications.
All of the devices in this radar detector buying guide will help you choose which one fits your needs. Remember to keep our tips in mind on how to choose a radar detector so you can efficiently evaluate a product first before making the decision to buy it for your vehicle.
Update: There are newly released Escort models in the market. Head over to our Max 3 review to get started!
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.