Customer Ratings & Reviews

I have used the Valentine 1 for years (V1g1 and V1g2 since it came out). I absolutely loved it and never thought I'd replace it but finally did for the R8. I have also used an Escort Redline which I disliked for the inaccurate ramp up vs. distance alerts and excessively long rear detection alert. My last unit before this was the Escort Max Ci 360 which was beautifully concealed with displays in the rear view mirror and the instrument cluster. It was extremely expensive yet the detection range was woefully short of any of the units discussed here. When I sold my car with the Max Ci 360, I went back to the V1 gen 2 but due to the interior layout of my new cars, depending on a mobile phone for advanced features has become practically impossible. With the V1, it was also difficult to depend on a cell phone speaker for audible announcements. The R8 checks all but one box with a big, bright display that provides all needed information and clear audible announcements (including bandwidth information). Sadly, the V1 has just fallen behind on the technological times. The one thing that the Valentine holds the edge on (for me) is the option of a concealed display. Another plus for the Valentine is a slightly better detection range on Ka but both provide such long range that for me that advantage is inconsequential. I initially ordered a blendmount but I found it impractical because it makes it very difficult to adjust the rear view mirror (and when you do, it moves the detector as well). It also hangs too low for my liking, which makes the presence of the detector very obvious. The single suction cup mount included with the R8 holds the unit firmly on top of my windshield tint strip which hides it very well and with power supplied via a mirror tap, the detector is very inconspicuous. I looked up the Vortex Uniden R8 Settings article and after following his suggested settings, I was up and running in no time at all. (You will need to investigate the bandwidths used in your area for fine-tuning though). I never imagined that Uniden would end up replacing my prior RDs but this unit has proven to be worth every penny. Every function that I need in a RD is contained in the unit - I just wish it had the option of a concealed display.

Review: Uniden R8 Radar Detector – Exceptional Performance and Accuracy The Uniden R8 Radar Detector is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for top-tier performance, accuracy, and advanced features. After using it for a while, I can confidently say it’s one of the best radar detectors on the market. Pros: Excellent Range & Detection: The R8 provides some of the longest detection ranges I’ve seen, giving ample warning for speed traps and radar signals well ahead of time. Directional Arrows: The arrows make it easy to determine where the signal is coming from, improving situational awareness. GPS Lockouts & Auto Learning: The built-in GPS helps mute false alerts from common stationary sources, like automatic doors and speed signs. Customizable Settings: The ability to tweak sensitivity, filters, and alert preferences makes it great for both city and highway driving. OLED Display & Alerts: The bright display and voice alerts provide clear information without being distracting. Cons: Pricey: It’s on the higher end, but you get what you pay for in performance and reliability. Size: It’s a bit bulkier than some other models, but that’s a minor trade-off for its capabilities. Final Verdict: If you’re serious about having a high-performance radar detector, the Uniden R8 is well worth the investment. It offers exceptional range, accuracy, and smart filtering that minimizes false alerts. Whether you're a daily commuter or a road trip enthusiast, this radar detector provides peace of mind and confidence on the road. Rating: (5/5)

The Uniden R8 radar detector is an impressive device that combines advanced technology with user-friendly features. One of its standout qualities is its exceptional range and sensitivity, allowing it to detect radar signals from a significant distance, which helps you stay ahead of any potential speed traps. The dual antenna system enhances its accuracy, minimizing false alerts while still alerting you to real threats. Another great aspect of the R8 is its customizable settings. You can adjust the sensitivity levels and choose different alert types, making it easy to tailor the experience to your driving style. The display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight, which is a big plus for safety. Overall, the Uniden R8 offers great performance and reliability, making it a solid investment for anyone looking to enhance their driving experience and stay informed on the road.

I was always an "Escort guy", most recently owning a Redline 360c, which is a great detector with serious firware issues. After exhaustive research, I settled on the R8. Wow! What a great device. Very different user experience from the 360c. The best analogy when comparing the R8 to he 360c is: When the 360c firmware is good, it is like an iPhone 16 Pro. Super easy to use, quick set up, great aesthetics and build quality. Almost plug n play. The R8 is like Samsung Galaxy S25. You can make a lot more tweaks to customize it and make it the best detector for you. After you have all the settings tuned to your driving area and style, the R8 has unbeatable performance. My pros and cons: Pros- 1, The display. Easy to read and angled towards the driver. 2. The incredible range and quick, accurate alerts. 3. The automatic lock out features. 4. The many display color choices so you can make it match your cars factory lighting scheme. 5. The many other customization features. If you are an IOS guy or just don't like to 'tweak' things, this may not be the detector for you. But if you don't mind taking the time to make a few adjustments on your first few drives, this detector is unbeatable. Cons- 1. Price? 2. Maybe too many features/choices for some that could be overwhelming?

I’m hesitating to write this, I don’t know if it will help my efforts, since someone needs to be the sacrificial lamb for the independent travel tax collectors; I’ve dabbled with various detectors over the past 3 decades of driving, mostly for detection fun only, yet generally in a hurry, and seemed to be a fun little gadget yet annoying. However, I’d rarely receive “go-fast” awards, mostly in my car - until more recently and mostly on my motorcycle. With first award in spring, then summer gave me 2 awards in less than 24 hrs followed for a grand finale of my extra special 25 mph over 70 a year later (and about a half dozen warnings)and no room for even a 1 over award unless I wanted to take long walks, I had to figure out how to not so easily catch attention from the heavies or at least have some means of knowing when to watch it(very easy on a motorcycle to suddenly be going 69 in 55 or 38 in 25 zones just by the most minor of hills or wrist flick and not notice). But to have this work on a motorcycle, it would require some easy means of a smartphone app, Bluetooth and I’d need to learn to know how to tell what’s what - this is exactly why I thought I’d take such for a test drive. Here’s the proof: zero warnings. Zero awards for my rushed driving. And countless instances where I had that edge in checking my swifter movement then correcting before I was given official notice of such and rewarded with a forced donation to the participating municipality’s fund. This is the only and finally perfect solution to my problem- a grippy or twisty wrist!

An outstanding product that detects law enforcement from miles away. I highly recommend it over the Escort Max 360 MKII. Having owned both, I can confidently say the performance of the Uniden R8 far exceeds that of the Max 360—by a significant margin.

The Uniden R8 stands out as one of the most advanced radar detectors available, offering exceptional performance, user-friendly features, and robust build quality. Whether you're a daily commuter or an enthusiast seeking top-tier protection, the R8 delivers on all fronts.

I've never owned a Radar Detector before, and this one was top of the line. I was skeptical at first on how good it works but I really underestimated it. If you're buying this specifically for police, it only rings if their radar is on obviously, that being said, it's very helpful if a police officer/trooper is on the side of the road or hiding waiting to give out tickets. It'll tell you about .5 of a mile to 1 mile before you reach the cop, give or take. Overall, perfect device for it's price.

I was told when looking at radar detectors that this unit has the highest return rate because of “false readings”. This Radar picks up K band and KA band. Which means anything from security systems in stores, other cars that use radar systems for cruise control/collision avoidance to Police Cruisers. Not all police departments use KA band, some are K band. So if you’re like me and frequently cruise at speeds that will get you in trouble then i want it to pickup EVERYTHING so there is little to no chance of getting picked up. The range is fantastic. I mean several thousand feet of range depending on terrain (Hills/Foliage). The only time you will get screwed is if they flick there radar on last second.. i would know… Laser pickup is good from experience.

It's definitely sensitive! I unfortunately live in an area with a lot of fixed radar speed signs so it picks up a lot. I have most of them muted, but now and then it still picks up the sign from a long way off. Perhaps there is a way to tweak settings to better eliminate false alarms, but I haven't figure it out yet, so 4 stars.

Uniden R8 I have had it for a month, it really helps me a lot, it has a speedometer with GPS, the laser detects most of the infrared cameras at traffic lights. and it is good for detecting cops, well it has several functions. I'm about to update it with the application that only exists in the App store. The first reason I bought it is because my car's speedometer stopped working and with this I now maintain the correct speed on streets and highways.

I was between this and another radar detector. Decided on the R8 after watching a few reviews and comparisons. Having the RD for a couple of weeks, I'm quite satisfied with the accuracy, range, and configuration options. Some recommendations for setup - update the firmware, apply and adjust Vortex Radar config to your preference.

Having owned the R3 and the R7 the R8 adds more distance and better lockout learning capabilities and false alerts. Paired with the app this makes for the total package. R8 companion on ios allows you make quick programming in the expert mode. The R8 allows you to fine tune your detector to limit more false alerts by reducing the sensitivity of the rear antenna.

The Uniden R8 Radar Detector is one of the best radar detectors on the market. It is very reliable, accurate, and user-friendly. It gives me peace of mind and confidence when I drive on the road. It is worth the price and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a high-performance radar detector.

Excellent radar detector! Gives plenty of warning ahead of speed traps. The auto mute feature on this device is extremely helpful. It remembered the bands that were false positives and correctly muted them every time I drove past. This detector is well worth the extra money. The menus on the rector allow you to fine tune the sensitivity towards certain bands.

As usual, Uniden delivers as promised! Only thing I don’t like is there is still no Bluetooth support, which is the main reason I switched from my R7 to this R8 plus having the mute button of front, but still a little disappointing that they have not came out with the app nor did they plan to according to Vortex Radar’s interview with them (11/2022) the only Bluetooth app that will work in the near future is for android users and it’s called the highway radar right now. Uniden does not plan on releasing any app, which is very unfortunate.

Finds the cops not on Waze! Works like a charm and has already paid for itself!

Best radar sector I’ve ever owned. If you are trying to make sure you know where a cop is then it’s definitely worth the money. Yes it may be pricier than the others but for the money it’s the best in the game.

Works just like how a radar should. Worth every penny.

Definitely worth the money. I travel from state to state for work and this has saved me plenty of times. Also love that it has gps as well.