I recently posted a comparison of the Radenso DS1 and Uniden R3. A lot of people have been asking how the Radenso DS1 compares to the Uniden R7. However, I personally consider the non-arrow DS1 in a different class than arrow detectors like the R7. Arrows are a very useful feature and many people wouldn’t even consider a detector without them.
However, given that the DS1 and R7 are both long range detectors that improve upon the R3’s platform and share similar features like autolockouts and a large display, let’s run through how they compare in case you’re curious too.
Radenso DS1 Advantages
In my mind, the biggest practical benefit of the DS1 is that it offers Bluetooth and an open API to support third party apps.
- Bluetooth & Open API!
- Maybe longer range? More testing needed, both are great
- Faster processor
- More GPS lockout slots
- Settings menu organized into different sections
- Auto mode varies K band sensitivity based on speed
- Bigger front facing mute button
- Can set delay for automute to kick in
- More solid build quality
- Slightly more compact, especially the display side
- Magnetic mount
- Universal 1/4″ screw thread for custom mounting solutions
- Newer USB C power/data port
- Can be preset to different regions (US, Canada, Aus&NZ)
- Will be available internationally
- Better customer service
- Ticket-free guarantee
- Optional extended warranty and ticket-free guarantee
- Price: DS1 is $399, R7 retails for $499 but price varies (it’s $479 on Amazon now)
Uniden R7 Advantages
That said, the R7 does have some benefits over the DS1, namely the arrows.
- Arrows!
- More K Block options (24.168)
- K Block configurability (block, mute, weak, off)
- Can announce Ka frequencies
- Shortcut to manually adjust display brightness from buttons
- More compact double suction cup mount available
- R7’s single suction cup mount is shorter than DS1’s suction cup mount
- Compatible with RJ11 if you already have an existing hardwire cable run
- POI pass chime available as an option
- Can manually lock out Ka and MRCD
- Ka Priority or Signal Priority
- Segmented signal strength bar easier to read
- Better alert tones
- Customizable K/Ka bogey tones
- Adjustable Quiet Ride Beep volume
- Turning off voice disables voice in menu
This article focuses mostly on the differences, but really the detectors are pretty similar. Great range, autolockouts, MRCD, similar update software, and many of the same improvements over the R3.
The DS1 does add Bluetooth and an open API which should allow for tons of cool bonus features once developers start creating apps for the detector, not to mention it saves you $70-$100 over the R7. If you’re the type of person who needs arrows, then a detector like the R7 is the way to go.
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Uniden R9
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You state “Radenso’s mount is shorter than Uniden’s single suction cup mount” but the pictures show just the opposite.
Author
You’re right. The R7’s single suction cup mount is shorter than the one with the DS1. That was my mistake and I fixed it. Thanks for pointing it out! I got it confused with the R3’s single suction cup mount which is different and is larger than both the R7’s and DS1’s single suction cup mount.
The picture do not show the Uniden single cup mount… it shows the dual suction cup mount (which lets the detector bounce like crazy). The Uniden single cup mount does make it hang lower.
Author
Because I prefer and use their double suction cup mount. You’re right that the R7’s single suction cup mount is larger and makes the detector hang lower.
The r7 is also stealth compared to the ds1 isn’t it?
Author
Neither are fully or reliably stealth in my experience.
Well I have both detectors so I can’t do any better than that! Had my R7 for a year and yes it’s better than my Escort I use to have!
Hey Vortex …. the new Uniden R7 firmware is out, I would love to see another review with the update and an updated setup guide. There have been a lot of new features added and I am interested in your spin on it! Keep up the fantastic quality content.