Uniden - R8 Radar Detector - Black

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.

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?

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.