Product Features and Description
The UNIDEN R8 Extreme Long-Range Radar/Laser Detector is designed for drivers who prioritize safety and awareness on the road. With its dual antennas and directional arrows, this device provides comprehensive front and rear detection, making it ideal for highway travelers seeking to navigate roadways with confidence.
Besides its primary use in detecting radar and laser signals, the UNIDEN R8 excels in urban settings thanks to its built-in GPS for real-time alerts and its ability to notify users of nearby red light and speed cameras, enhancing city driving safety.
Readers can look forward to an in-depth description of the product’s features, user opinions, reviews, comparisons, and attractive market offers, providing a comprehensive understanding of the UNIDEN R8’s capabilities and value.
- Unsurpassed Range and Sensitivity: The R8 is a new platform with dual antennas, providing exceptional range and sensitivity. It can detect threats from all four directions, with voice alerts indicating the direction of the threat. It also displays the band and signal strength for each threat.
- GPS Technology with Auto Mute Memory: The R8 has GPS technology that can remember and automatically mute false alerts, such as retail store doors, along your routes. This ensures that you never have to listen to the same false alert twice.
- Red Light and Speed Camera Alerts: The R8 comes preloaded with red light and speed camera locations. It includes a free database and firmware updates to ensure that your detector is always up to date.
- Large Multi-Color OLED Display: The R8 features a large, easy-to-read OLED display. It can show more useful information at once, improving your overall situational awareness.
- Voice Alerts: The R8 provides voice alerts for hands-free operation. You can program the voice alerts to fit your style, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road without distractions.
- Advanced False Alert Filtering: The R8 has the best K/KA band filtering, minimizing false alerts from blind spot monitoring and collision avoidance systems in other vehicles.
- Package Includes: The package includes the radar detector, single and double window mount brackets, a zippered carrying case, a neoprene carrying case, Velcro tape, a power cord, a data cable, and an owner’s manual.
The R8 represents a groundbreaking advancement in detection technology, offering an exceptional blend of range and sensitivity. Engineered with an innovative Dual Antenna system, this device is specifically designed to detect threats from all four directions. For the user, this means an unprecedented level of awareness and security while on the road. The R8 doesn’t just signal the presence of a threat; it provides clear, actionable intelligence, showing both the band and signal strength for each detection. This meticulously crafted device ensures that drivers receive precise and timely information, enhancing overall driving safety.
What truly sets the R8 apart is its intuitive design that goes beyond traditional detection systems. It uses voice alerts to indicate the direction of the threat, ensuring that important information is conveyed even if the driver is unable to look at the device immediately. This function adds a layer of convenience and safety, minimizing distractions and effectively communicating critical details. The R8 exemplifies how technology can seamlessly integrate into daily routines, making driving not only safer but also more efficient. With its commitment to excellence, the R8 takes the concept of protection to an entirely new level, proving that perfect can indeed get better.
The stars speak of…
Opinions about this product were divided in such a proportion among the buyers.
Hadnt owned a radar detector in decades Read something about detectors and was curious what was on the market these days Looked like the Uniden R and the Escort Max were the top choices Hit youtube and did some research Decided on the R Pretty staggering price because it always seemed like it takes about – dollars to get out of a typical speeding ticket and you logic out how a detector will pay for itself on the st time it alerts you and saves you Well this one will have to save you a couple times to justify the price tag Have had it for a couple months now The main redeeming part on this expensive purchase is Ka band detection It is beyond good The range of pickup is exceptional They stole the idea of arrow display to tell you which way the radar is coming from from the original Valentine One detector but it is essential in helping fine tune your conclusion of which way the threat is coming from X and K band are probably only good if you are traveling through Mayberry where older technology radar guns are probably still in existence Laser is worthless
Goes off for every stupid thing but when I’m actually passing a cop it waits until the cop is whipping around to pull me over to start blaring like crazy. $700 useless device
Question Bank: Providing the Answers You Seek
How does the dual antenna feature improve the performance of this radar/laser detector?The dual antenna setup significantly boosts the detection capabilities by monitoring threats from all four directions. This means the device can detect the presence of radar signals coming from both the front and rear, thus offering comprehensive coverage. Directional arrows also indicate where the threat is coming from, providing valuable situational awareness.
What makes the GPS technology in this detector particularly useful?The built-in GPS technology enhances the functionality by providing real-time alerts and automatically updating to mute known stationary false alert sources. This feature also includes alerts for red light and speed cameras, adding an extra layer of protection against unexpected penalties.
How effective are the voice alerts on this detector?The voice alerts are designed to deliver clear and concise notifications about detected threats. They inform users of the band and signal strength without needing to take their eyes off the road, which significantly reduces distractions and enhances safety.
Is it compatible with smartphones and does it offer any connectivity advantages?Yes, the radar detector is compatible with smartphones, allowing for seamless integration and extra features through the associated apps. This connectivity can provide users additional control over settings and access to community-sourced updates about traffic conditions and threats.
Does this radar detector support all the necessary frequency bands?This detector supports crucial frequency bands such as K and Ka, which are widely used by law enforcement for speed measurement. By covering these bands, it ensures reliable warnings about potential radar threats, giving drivers ample time to adjust their driving if needed.
What distinguishes the OLED display of this detector?The large multi-color OLED display provides clear visibility of all relevant detection information, including the signal strength, detected band, and direction of the threat. Its easy-to-read interface enhances user interaction, making it simple to interpret alerts and notifications even in low-light conditions.
How does the ‘Auto Mute Memory’ enhance the user experience?Auto Mute Memory is engineered to recognize and remember false alert locations automatically. This feature helps reduce the number of false alerts over time, improving the detector’s efficiency and ensuring that real threats are given full attention, thus enhancing driver confidence and comfort.
Lion Cat –
Best Quality I’ve seen. And Used.
Best Radar Detector I’ve Owned in Year’s.
Clark Brown –
Best radar detector currently available.
I have been an Escort radar detector fan for decades. It has always served me well. I recently bought the Uniden R8 and absolutely love it. It’s a little thicker than the Escort, but the front mounted Mute Button is a far better location.
tigersmoonva –
Mama, I’m goin fast!
Outstanding unit. Picks up speed traps miles away accurately and provides ample time to react accordingly. Directional arrows are a nice touch, so you know which direction trouble is located in. Can be overly sensitive in dense urban areas, but has a GPS mute feature which allows you to mark and silence alerts in specific places. Pricey, but a solid investment if you like to drive fast. A must have accessory for any sports car.
Barbarus –
Great radar detector that COSTS WAY TOO MUCH!
Wow, I’m really impressed with this unit! The only reason it’s getting three starts instead of five is because it is several years old tech being sold for startlingly high price tag – $700 will buy laptops these days, Uniden! OTOH, this R8 is replacing my “2008 Escort Solo S2 Passport” unit that saved me a gazillion dollars over the years. I liked that well enough, but this R8 is miles better – the customizability allowed me (with the help of Radar Vortex) to set it up nicely for the tech in use by most of my local LEO agencies (I only live a few miles from Radar Vortex’s editor), so the signal:noise ratio on this unit is much improved over my previous unit and with the addition of a bespoke mirror tap wiring harness for my Ford Mach-e, the hard-wired install was simple and the result was elegant. The display customizations for this unit allows it to blend in nicely with my vehicle’s cockpit, and the only way I could be any happier with the result is they had CHARGED ME SEVERAL HUNDRED DOLLARS LESS FOR THIS PRODUCT! 🙂
Emanuel Rahmanov –
50/50
I liked it but I was unable to disable over speed. Work amazingly but was annoying to operate make it more simpler.
Joe –
This is a radar detector, not a police detector.
Two things to remember: not all police units run radar, and this isn’t your dad’s radar detector. Many detectors today do require some level of configuration, and knowing what is used in your state helps greatly. Vortex Radar has an awesome guide on how to set up your detector. As for the Uniden R8, this is by far the best detector I’ve owned yet. The long-range detection isn’t exaggerated; it really does pick up radar from far away, and it’s fast too. Except to get false alerts every now and then. I don’t care what kind of radar detector you have; there will always be false alerts. Lucky, the Uniden does cut back on many of them.
Jake –
Not as good as you’d expect
I’ve had this radar detector for about a year now. This is supposed to be one of the best radar detectors on the market but it honestly isn’t even that good. The range is not as good as the description says it is and the false alerts still happen all the time. Another annoying thing is It’s always random when it works well. Like sometimes you’ll get a good warning from a cop thats maybe a half a mile away but then other times it’ll alert you at the exact time that you see a cop in a hiding spot which makes it useless and if you were speeding then you’re just screwed. The directional arrows are also wrong a lot of times.
Matt –
The best out there
The R8 is the best you can get out there they sound quality is good it is nice it tells you what is getting you and were it’s coming from amazing features the display is great the installation was easy and I love the little case it comes in the compactness is good and really simple functionality I just think it’s the best one out there if you have a android you can pair with it and that’s more features and it’s just an amazing product
Phunistle –
Worth the money
I have had an Escort for the last 12+ years, but finally needed to replace it, and reached out to a friend who I know studies this stuff really hard before he buys something. He talked me into getting this one, even though I didn’t want to spend the money for it, but I can see why he did. The distance this thing picks up, front, back, and even to the side is amazing. It has a ton of tuneable features, easy to get in operation, and tune. I highly recommend.
RMD –
Best one I’ve had so far
So far it is an excellent detector. One small problem however and I get I’m likely a niche case there’s no native support for Linux users. I get I can run a Windows virtual machine, I don’t want to have to do that every time I need to update this detector. Windows is getting to close to being corporate malware with their push for AI and apple isn’t any better. Bunch of us are picking up Linux as a result. Would absolutely give a five-star if I were able to update easier.
Holli –
Works great
I deducted a star because in less than year the word “hi” is burnt on display. Can’t tell in pic here but example: where speed would show 65 or “mute memory” etc on display you can forever see the word “hi” through whatever is alerting. I should have contacted before year old but I was jearing the end of nursing school and was overwhelmed. For almost 800.00 I paid this shouldn’t happen. It’s now 14 months old. Works well on alerts though , easy to understand
Rick In STL –
After a year, going well, great direction and functions as claimed
I’ve had this about a year now. It picks up signals that are important (mostly KA) very early giving you adequate heads up. Couple this with a waze setup and you should be in a good place. The picking up ahead/behind/side is great, no more guessing. I’ve probably driven 30k miles with it, would recommend 100%, I came from the escort line and have no issues with this brand or the model. It’s expensive but for those who do extensive driving or struggle to watch their speed, this is a must.
A.B. –
Countless tickets saved.
I don’t know what else to say but this thing is amazing. It picks up signals from miles away and has saved me more times than I can count. Highly recommended.
Julian Azios –
It works too good
It’s accurate. But I have to adjust the settings since the K band goes off almost constantly in the city. I might turn it off since the police in my area use KA. I like the color change feature and it’s pretty customizable. It also came with a travel case. Useful for hiding it when not in use.
reyesgohard –
Bought a Tesla? Buy this next.
The beauty of a Tesla is how quietly it rides. The downside to this is that it’s very easy to lose track of how fast you’re going (unless you have that sweet self-driving feature turned on). This will help keep you in check. Yes, it’s quite a bit more expensive than most detectors, but you’re paying for reliability and features. Speaking of which, there are probably more features than the average driver needs, but as you explore these you’ll find yourself using them on the daily. Back to the price: look at it this way, this thing might one day pay for itself off of one good (bad) ticket. Consider it as a must-have accessory for your sweet, new speed demon of a quiet electric vehicle. Don’t think about it, just buy it. If you’re concerned about thieves, this unplug easily and comes with a nice carrying case for you to take with you. There’s a reason why this is one of the highest-rated detectors. If you’re an average joe of a driver, get this and don’t think about it. If you’re seasoned especially with detectors, find a cheaper alternative and make that work. Either way, if you’re an EV driver, you definitely need some type of detector as insurance.
Alonzo G. –
Dont work after few months
Screen just locks up cant reset and software update did nothing to fix
J. T. Leone –
Absolute garbage – DO NOT buy for San Francisco
Loaded with false alerts for K-band and X-band. Even after turning off K-Band, it still triggers K. I would tolerate it but January 1, 2025, I drove on the highway and saw two patrol cars – first one was sitting on side actively scanning open 3 lanes (Caesar Chavez 280 to 101) and right afterwards, a second one on 280 S towards Monterey blvd. Not a SINGLE sound emitted from the Uniden R8. I already configured for max sensitivity and positioned/installed optimally. It still doesn’t pick up true alerts. Functionally, it’s useless.
Robert Salts –
Quality
Great deal, top of the line
Pak-Hong Tsang –
Refurbished product. See attached images.
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jose –
Completely Worth It
It’s been great so far! I searched online to get the right settings and minimize false alerts and so far it’s been great.
Red –
Great detector
Works great and has excellent range.
ernie –
Radar
This radar has paid for itself over and over again. Well pick up around corners and about 3/4 to a mile out line of sight.
Amazon Customer –
Great detector.
I bought this radar detector for obvious reasons, This detector has proven its worth right out of the box. The laser detection worked great the other day when the motorcycle police were using laser guns on the side of the highway. If you’re looking for a reliable radar detector, this is a great choice.
natalie smith –
Broken
I set up my radar detector with all appropriate plugs in there right ports and get now power. Simply amazing to spend 600 bucks and get a broken piece of tech.
Happy camper. –
R8 Radar detector
This unit is pricy but work really good.
Carlos R. –
It Appears That The Reviews Were Accurate .
The reviews here and through reliable sources state that this is one one the best radar detectors to come out in a long time. I am in complete agreement. The basic as well as the advanced setup was great. A well done manual also is a plus. Time will tell if the added expense is worth it!
Ryan Fierstien –
Amazing product
This thing does an outstanding job at great distances. I recommend learning the type of radar police use in your area. Since my area they all use Ka bands, I had to turn off K band because of the numerous false alerts. Therefore you can always count on the alerts being 100% accurate and early.
Rene17 –
Doesn’t work
I have drove past cops has not beeped I have drove past stationary cops hasn’t beeps the only time it beeps is for false alarms
Scott S. –
Uniden lied. They said the R8 would support the new laser jammer.
Uniden lied. They said the R8 would support the new laser jammer. Now they say you must buy the new R8W. They increased the price of the R8W by $50. Big surprise you must spend $750 for the new R8W.