This firmware update improves MRCD detection range, allows you to dial back the sensitivity of the rear antenna, makes GPS lockouts safer, and includes a bunch of small changes and bug fixes.
Here are all the changes from 1.24 to 1.29, along with my notes about the changes.
Update: As of March 2020, the new V1 Gen 2 has started shipping out to those who’ve preordered. More info coming soon!
Since March of 2019, the Valentine One has been out of stock on VR’s website.
There’s been endless discussion and speculation on the forums ever since. You guys have been regularly asking what the latest news is so let’s go over what we know.
Is Valentine coming out with a new detector? Will it be the same or will there be changes? What will the changes be? When will the detector come out? What’s taking so long? Is Valentine going out of business?
I just called them up again this morning and I’ve done that several times over the months (I have a V1 on pre-order for as soon as it becomes available again) and many others have called VR for updates and posted their findings on RDF too. Here’s the latest news on what’s going on with Valentine:
Radenso has released firmware US19 for the Pro M which adds new alert tones for the different radar and laser alerts.
Here’s a quick demo of the 15 different alert tones. They’re individually selectable for X, K, Ka, MRCD, MRCT, Gatso, & Laser.
I’ve never been a huge fan of the default tones for K and Ka so it’s nice to have some new options.
I’m still experimenting to see which ones I like best. I’m also finding it helpful to enable the Voice to announce different radar bands while I try out and learn the new tones.
K40 products are generally considered among enthusiasts to be overpriced underperformers. There are far better options available.
After purchasing and testing both their RL360di radar detector and the Defuser Optix laser jammer against the competition, I found them both to be bottom of the barrel performers. Once I then had a chance to take a look at the internals, I was surprised at what I saw and suddenly everything started to make sense…
Brand new K40 RL360di radar detector ready to be installed for testing
Here’s a more detailed discussion about K40 and why I do not personally run or recommend their current products. Continue reading
Genevo recently released their new Genevo Max radar detector (€ 799). While I generally don’t cover European detectors that aren’t available in North America, the Max introduces some unique new features that we haven’t seen before in other radar detectors so I think it’s worth taking a closer look.
The new Max is an evolution of the Genevo One M (modified and sold in the US as the Radenso Pro M) with a new case and design, upgraded mount, plus a new motion sensor allowing you to mute the detector by waving your hand in front of it.
FW24 is a minor update that fixes a few bugs with the detector:
KA mute (some couldn’t mute certain KA alerts)
Lockout mute (some units didn’t mute a locked out alert)
Update error fix (Some had issues updating the firmware. They were locked out with “ERR” on the display.)
Note: If you happen to update and see ERR with this latest firmware (most people are), Radenso recommends you try updating a second time. The screen will be blank and won’t appear to be powered on, but give it some time with the files on the USB drive and it should begin to update. Click here for support with this update.
The Uniden R3 and Uniden DFR9 are both two great radar detectors. Both offer good performance, helpful false alert filtering, and important GPS features like redlight camera alerts and manual GPS lockouts. The R3 is the more popular choice due to its extreme range and additional features, but the DFR9 is a little bit more affordable and will also work well on your windshield.
Uniden R3 (left) and Uniden DFR9 (right)
Comparing the two, here are the main advantages of each detector:
Update Jan 1, 2020: The winners have all been randomly drawn and selected! See if your name is listed below in the list of prizes. All winners have been now been contacted via email so you can claim your prizes. Thank you and welcome to 2020!
Time for one of my favorite parts of the year! Time to give away a bunch of fun prizes! Just like last year, we’ve got a thousands of dollars worth of radar detectors and dash cameras to give away to you guys. 🙂
Giveaway Prizes:
Uniden R7, provided by Uniden ($500) Winner: Michael S. from Alberta
Uniden R3, provided by Uniden ($300) Winner: Patti N. from Alberta
Uniden R3, provided by Uniden ($300) Winner: Susana R. from Italy
Radenso XP, provided by Radenso ($250) Winner: Evan M. from Washington
Black Friday and Cyber Monday are here! So as always, I’ll be compiling all the very best Black Friday deals on radar detectors, laser jammers, and dash cameras available.
I’m continually updating this post as new deals are announced. 🙂
Save $70 on Escort's top of the line Max 360c. It offers arows, bluetooth, WiFi, cloud integration, and autolockouts. The 360c is my favorite Escort windshield mount radar detector. It is compatible with the ZW5 wireless laser shifter.
Expired: Save $150 on the Escort Max 360. It has arrows, autolockouts, good range, and good BSM filtering. If you don't need the WiFi of the 360c, save the cash and go for the original Max 360.
Expired: Save $100 on the Cobra DualPro 360. It's essentially a repackaged Escort Max360 with arrows, autolockouts, Bluetooth, and the same BSM filtering.
Save $50 on the Cobra Road Scout radar detector dashcam combo unit. The Road Scout has reasonable performance and BSM filtering, plus a 1080p dashcam built in to the unit for one integrated package.
The Radenso XP is a great urban detector with few false alerts. If you drive a lot in town, this is a great choice. It doesn't have the range of the R3, but it also falses less too. It's now available for $100 off. (This technically isn't a BF deal either, but with it's great new lower price, it's definitely worth mentioning.)
Save $60 on a set of TMG Triples. These are good budget laser jammers and for Black Friday, these are the cheapest you'll find them. Use this coupon for free US shipping as well.
Save $60 on a set of TMG Triples. These are good budget laser jammers and for Black Friday, these are the cheapest you'll find them. Use this coupon for free US shipping as well.
Save $130 on a set of TMG Quads. These are good budget laser jammers and for Black Friday, these are the cheapest you'll find them. Use this coupon for free US shipping as well.
Save $130 on a set of TMG Quads. These are good budget laser jammers and for Black Friday, these are the cheapest you'll find them. Use this coupon for free US shipping as well.
Expired: The best affordable dashcam on the market is 23% off for Black Friday. It has awesome video quality, great low light performance, it's compact, offers buffered parking recording, and you can now get it for under $100.
Expired: If you're an Uber, Lyft, or Taxi driver, save $40 on the Blackvue DR590W-2CH IR rideshare dashcam. It features a normal front facing dashcam, as well as second interior facing dashcam with IR LED's to record the inside of your vehicle as well.
If you ride a motorcycle and want a dashcam for your bike, pick up the Thinkware M1 waterproof dashcam. It records 1080p front and rear and is designed specifically for motorsports applications. It's $50 off for Black Friday.
Expired: If you want a dashcam that has a second camera to record the cabin inside your car, the Blueseasky B2W is available for 30% off for BF. Rideshare and taxi drivers would especially benefit from this style of two channel dashcam.
Expired: If you want a dashcam that has a second camera to record the cabin inside your car, the Blueseasky B2W is available for 30% off for BF. Rideshare and taxi drivers would especially benefit from this style of two channel dashcam.
Click "Show Code" to save 15% off the best upgrade for your radar detector's mount. The Blendmount gives your radar detector a solid and strong mount under your RVM, it looks clean, and you no longer have to worry about suction cups failing or a wobbly radar detector. Plus it's a great solution for states where mounting anything to your windshield is prohibited.
Click "Show Code" to save 15% off the best upgrade for your radar detector's mount. The Blendmount gives your radar detector a solid and strong mount under your RVM, it looks clean, and you no longer have to worry about suction cups failing or a wobbly radar detector. Plus it's a great solution for states where mounting anything to your windshield is prohibited.
Expired: Like a dashcam for your house, this is an awesome video doorbell. I use this one and love it. You get security footage of everyone coming to your house, notifications to your phone, and can see people and packages. For BF you can get it for 28% off and get a free Echo Show 5.
Expired: Save 30% on the quick release iOttie phone mounts. There's lots of different models. They can attach to your windshield or your dash. I use the wireless charging one and have used different versions for years.
He gives great advise and helps you understand everything
Steve M.
00:14 11 Mar 24
Give me the best advice on buying a radar detector
Wes P.
14:48 02 Nov 22
A great source of information! Consistently updates when new information or products come out. Reviews radar detectors,... laser detectors, laser shifters, dash cams, and more!read more
Gregory K.
23:48 06 Apr 22
Clearly the most thorough, comprehensive radar detector review and testing site / YouTube channel.
Tommy W.
21:12 17 Jul 21
1. He’s honest!! 2. He knows what he’s talking about!! 3. He does in depth research!! 4. Only review/testing I... listen to!!read more
Saif K.
01:05 16 Mar 21
This guy will help you save money !!! Excellent accumulated experience, quick and in-depth reviews, and very useful... information overall. Significant personal annual saving on tickets ! I recommend Radar detectors for anyone who got more than two tickets within the last 5 years! and I recommend Vortex Radar as your one stop shop, for all the support you need for Radar Detectors, dashcams, and many other reviews 😀read more
Frank B.
18:45 17 Dec 20
Great reviews, in-depth and very thorough. Would love to see 2 channel dashcam reviews for convertibles with the... rear unit on the front windshield Blackview or Thinkware or any with cloud access. It would help decide which cam has better coverage through rear window. Thanks again for your efforts.read more
Jerry G.
01:08 17 Oct 20
unbiased reviews and will give you the best information possible on tbe products he test.
Steven H.
16:11 25 Jun 20
This guy yes I watch everything he does is the Master on radar detectors and counter measure equipment . He’s saved me... a lot of money on equipment buying and not waisting my money he’s the Man!read more
Tony S.
06:40 19 Jun 20
Exceptional YouTube channel dedicated to radar detectors. Thoughtful discussion - and solid technical conclusions.
Robert K.
17:31 16 Jun 20
What I like most about Vortex Radar is the fact that you give an honest review what's good and not good on all products.
Kyle S.
18:09 19 May 20
The most knowledgeable data based source for radar / laser detectors in addition to countermeasures. Very informative... in giving both manufacture details and real world test results. Check out the YouTube channel it is enjoyable to watch. I personally do not know of any other easily accessible source of information with such a wealth of content on this topic that is assimilated into an easy to understand format. Thank you for all the great content and advice.read more
Pete H.
15:20 25 Apr 20
There’s no one else that puts in the time and information about the radar community than him.
Joe T.
01:17 22 Apr 20
Notting but the FACTS and the 411 on all that you need to know.
Willie B.
01:24 22 Mar 20
Been a fan of radar detectors for over 40 years. Following Vortex radar detailed reviews and side by side comparisons... of the newest detectors allowed me to make a very informed decision on the best value for a windshield detector. Great page to follow.read more
Chris M.
18:59 07 Mar 20
If you're shopping for a Dashcam or Radar Detector, Vortex Radar is the one and only place to do your research! Vortex... does all the testing for you and lays out all the facts!read more
Shawn S.
00:41 03 Mar 20
Knowledgeable about Radar Detectors
Hal Y.
13:18 02 Mar 20
What you always wanted to know about radar detectors but were afraid to ask
Carter J.
17:07 22 Feb 20
Great Information and easy to understand! I wish all tutorials were like these. Great Job!!!!
Eric W.
01:42 28 Jan 20
I've been watching his Radar Detector for years. He really knows his stuff! Please keep up the great work!! ;-)
Aaron W.
18:04 22 Jan 20
Great source of unbiased info.
Glenn L.
14:17 05 Jan 20
Excellent non-biased recommendations.
Chris P.
17:27 22 Dec 19
Nice information to help you with making a choice
Martin L.
12:53 22 Dec 19
he is the go to guy for radar detector knowledge & makes informed videos.
Kat S.
22:24 16 Dec 19
Very helpful with making a decision on which detector to buy. Explains the features very well!
William F.
18:50 14 Dec 19
For up to date non biased information on radar and laser counter measures. He has very good information on dash cams... and storage too. I trust his reviews. Definitely pull good deals together and gives you options.read more
Andy B.
12:54 11 Dec 19
Very good and fair reviews and regular updates on a wide variety of products
Alc A.
23:13 06 Dec 19
There is no better hands on information source on countermeasure devices.
Atwell H.
20:04 06 Dec 19
Comprehensive, unbiased reviews and setup guides.
Ilan M.
08:32 30 Nov 19
very good information and short movies abaout the detecters.
Dennis L.
17:16 08 Nov 19
Wish they all were this good!
Tony L.
15:54 08 Nov 19
Vortex Radar provides a wealth of knowledge on all radar and lidar platforms. Anyone interested in learning more about... the speed countermeasure industry, Vortex is your guy!read more
John S.
14:10 31 Oct 19
Excellent information about "countermeasures" associated with safe driving. Everything is conveyed in simple form, and... to the point. Great production standards, too!read more
Mathew J D.
13:53 29 Aug 19
was a huge help on picking my uniden r3, lots of info on styles of radars for comparisons, to find what radar is best... suited for you and your style if drivingread more
Katheleen C.
08:59 19 Jul 19
I recommend the products and people reading the information on your web site to learn what is out there and available
Stan L.
13:01 13 Jul 19
I really like the idea of having the ability of recording my driving in case of a traffic incident
Bruce T.
15:31 12 Jul 19
Great resource for information on radar detectors and dash cams. Vortex knows his stuff!
Brian Douglas K.
02:34 08 Jul 19
great information and unbiased reviews
Fred S.
23:55 18 Jun 19
The fantastic unbiased reporting of the latest radar capabilities and the ability to Express the technical information.... Thank you all for the great updates and videos.read more
Bought an R7 on your advice and its been a great purchase. Keep up the good work!
Gern B.
07:15 18 May 19
Great advice, great tests, great videos, great attitude, great knowledge of his subject matter.
Fred M.
17:02 14 May 19
Most knowledgeable guy about mobile devices!
Lauren M.
17:42 11 May 19
high quality product, easy to follow instructions
Dan M.
19:47 02 May 19
Great find when I was looking for a RD. Honest assessments.
Jon V.
18:41 25 Apr 19
The most knowledgeable honest testing and recommendations on earth! Vortex you can trust!
John T.
23:35 23 Apr 19
The most complete and thorough reviewer of radar detectors. Tons of information here.
Hector M.
15:42 19 Apr 19
I like the share of information and ideas on the use and maintenance of radar detectors and related products.
Lester H.
00:49 01 Apr 19
Great Information and review to help make the best chose for you.
Jim L.
23:52 31 Mar 19
Great and knowledgeable site!
Chris J.
18:30 18 Mar 19
The man has done his homework
Jonathan W.
16:01 03 Mar 19
I completely trust the information that I get from Vortex. They have been a huge help with equipment training,... installation recommendations & instructions, to helping me compare products to make the best purchase. I cannot say enough good stuff about them.read more
Jonny S.
23:06 22 Jan 19
This guy is a radar guru!
His reviews are fantastic!
Phillip K.
04:03 21 Jan 19
Very knowledgeable and wonderfully detailed videos
Mike L M.
03:17 05 Jan 19
from what I've seen so far, good, fair testing.
David B.
15:56 26 Dec 18
The current GOLD Standard in detection news and reviews. I trust everything he posts!
James M.
14:00 26 Dec 18
This is my go to for radar detector knowledge, I want answers and he has them,
William Wendy Everhart I.
02:17 24 Dec 18
Performance warranted and best reviews online
Rishi S.
21:34 23 Dec 18
Very knowledgeable man with lots of great advice.
I currently own 2 Max 360, 1 Max 360c and lastly my favorite,... Uniden R3. By far, the R3 out performs all the Escort product and is a very reliable product when it comes down to picking up the accurate threat.read more
Joey T.
22:53 19 Dec 18
Lots of helpful advice, great video at youtube
John Matthew W.
00:25 19 Dec 18
Information is spot on if there’s anyone that knows anything here about Detectors here’s your guy ! I got all my info... from Vortex an have a nice collection thanks so much #Vortexradarread more
Robert C.
20:46 12 Dec 18
an insane amount of info. best Ever!
Plato Ioannis D.
18:23 09 Dec 18
Expert advice on Dashcams and radar detectors
Chris B.
17:07 09 Dec 18
love checking in to see what this guy has in store for the different reviews. Only resource I know of right now that is... this thorough.read more
David Ket S.
01:22 09 Dec 18
Excellent information for newbies or Pro’s. Love there unbiased reviews of multiple detector types. Look forward to... learning more tips about my favorite detectors!!read more
Robert P.
16:09 08 Dec 18
Very informative channel for Radar Detectors and Dashcams!
Albert D.
06:11 08 Dec 18
great content and honest reviews
Craig M.
01:12 08 Dec 18
Great advice and reviews!
Gary G.
22:44 07 Dec 18
Great website and video content!
John N.
17:42 07 Dec 18
Awesome videos. Love my R3. 😎
Robert D.
15:36 07 Dec 18
Very knowledgeable about the product
Brian St D.
15:13 07 Dec 18
Great informative videos on radar detectors (and related stuff).
Derrick L.
15:00 07 Dec 18
Great information and knowledge or products
Thomas W.
13:18 07 Dec 18
Very informative and unbiased reviews.
Tim S.
07:51 06 Dec 18
It’s a great Radar detector
Les Y.
22:54 05 Dec 18
Great reviews and advice on youtube channel and the forums
Allen W.
22:24 05 Dec 18
I have been watching YouTube videos for a while and have learned a lot of useful information on radar detectors and how... to set them up properly. Thanksread more
Brian B.
22:07 05 Dec 18
Best and most informative website for all things radar detector on the internet! ...and dash cams!
Ron S.
04:44 04 Dec 18
Very informative and knowledgeable about a variety of radar detector products... Product areas also include laser... jammers and dash cams.. As a technician I recognize good testing methods and appreciate the unbiased reviews of the products featured...read more
VD V.
07:15 28 Nov 18
Very professional reviews, tests in details, nice videos... he is awesome!!! 😍😎👍
Gene E.
15:37 01 Nov 18
Great infomation No bias in his reporting.
Benedict De Leon A.
01:26 28 Sep 18
Great Content and Very Informative videos
Ted D.
23:33 23 Aug 18
real pro can learn a lot
Troy N.
03:46 18 Aug 18
Vortex is one of the most knowledgeable guys in the countermeasure community. His non-biased approach makes it very... easy to trust what he says. If you are looking to buy a radar detector or laser jammer, check out his videos before going anywhere elseread more
Asa E.
23:19 17 Aug 18
Great content and very informative.
Eric C.
16:00 09 Aug 18
simply the best place to get the best information and recommendations, thanks for all your great work
Kevin M.
09:19 07 Aug 18
Outstanding U Tube channel. Very informative and answered a ton of questions I had.
Tim C.
00:22 06 Jul 18
Vortex is awesome. Best instructional and detailed videos ever. Sold me on the Uniden R3, and it was the best choice!... Thank you!read more
Gabriel R.
18:09 29 Jun 18
Great Page I have a V1 and just bought a Uniden R3 & love it to your reviews helped Big time cant wait to post my... reviews on the R3.read more
Παναγιωτης Ν.
15:40 29 Jun 18
Top!
Rick M.
11:18 28 Jun 18
very informitive
Rodz R.
08:05 28 Jun 18
clear explanation on products ,clear how to videos
Erwin Y.
11:34 22 Jun 18
Thanks a lot Mr. Radar expert, really helped out on my purchase of an R3, especially the upcoming support for MRCD... photo radar. Changed my mind from Escort based on your videos and saved a ton of $$$.read more
Marc M.
15:11 19 Jun 18
This guy is the king when it comes to detectors. Incredible knowledge and willing to share what he knows.
Solano H.
16:54 08 Jun 18
The best radar detector expert in the world and a very nice person that I will be honor to meet in my next trip to USA.... Gretings from Brazil.read more
Lucas C.
02:02 03 Jun 18
Sherry H.
21:14 26 May 18
ENTER TO WIN A HIGH TEC BACK , FRONT AND PARK VIEWING CAM!
Ed A.
02:22 19 May 18
Jerry N.
02:10 16 May 18
Bryon V.
21:46 14 May 18
Questions answered promptly, great informative videos! Has taken over the helm left by Radar Roy!
John W.
16:24 23 Apr 18
Everything you'll need to know about Top Detectors this man has you Covered reliable Information and that's Facts I... really Enjoy His Videos online an on Youtube , many Reviews I've learned alot an really enjoy the Collection I own thanks to Him.read more
Brian P.
01:01 12 Apr 18
David E.
04:50 01 Apr 18
The go to guy for anything about radar/laser detectors
Brian L.
06:41 18 Mar 18
Dwight G.
23:27 17 Mar 18
Dennis A.
21:25 12 Mar 18
Brian H.
03:47 12 Mar 18
Ryan B.
23:31 09 Mar 18
He's one of the most informed and definitely the most honest person you'll find when it comes to detectors and... countermeasures in generalread more
Alex B.
08:23 09 Mar 18
Anton F.
23:59 16 Feb 18
William R.
21:03 28 Jan 18
I appreciate the extensive time and effort Vortex has devoted to the subject of radar detector technology. His in depth... reviews and analyses of the products currently available has greatly helped me determine what is best for my needs.read more
Sean Mashimarho R.
23:57 02 Jan 18
Awesome guy to work with. Very honest, personable, and has a passion for what he does.
Tom A.
02:19 30 Dec 17
Excellent reviews of all the radar detectors. Great source of knowledge
Chris M.
19:26 14 Dec 17
Best videos to learn about old and new radars. He's always keeping us updated on Radar news, updates, tests, and... reviews.read more
Ty C.
12:57 12 Dec 17
Alway share valuable information. Im still undecided on which radar detector is right for me. Uniden R3 or the Radenso... pro So many choices...lol🤔read more
Bill B.
09:06 12 Dec 17
One should never buy a radar detector without first checking the reviews published by Vortex Radar for the various... products on the market. Absolutely a essential resource for decision making.read more
Jc B.
08:57 12 Dec 17
your videos are very informative and has helped me select the best detector for my needs! thank you!!
Kirk A.
22:16 11 Dec 17
Paul V.
04:47 07 Dec 17
It is always nice to watch Vortex videos. Simple-speak of complex gear, done by a guy who ENJOYS what he sharing. Sorry... to learn of your Miata getting smacked; glad you’re ok. I drive a new Miata and run a Uniden R3. I picked my car, but Vortex picked my R3 after following his research and testing. Best regards sir!read more
Cristi M.
16:40 01 Dec 17
Clarence Glynn J.
18:38 24 Nov 17
Aissam B.
22:23 20 Nov 17
Jose Santana Y. Norma C.
00:13 15 Nov 17
Andrew G.
15:49 04 Nov 17
Love all the informative videos. Thank you for sharing!
Matthew W.
19:55 07 Oct 17
Thank you so much for the reviews and videos of how to program and setup my R3. I purchased the R3 solely based on your... videos and recommendations. Best review and how to videos ive ever watched. I absolutely love this thing!read more
Brian S.
13:53 05 Sep 17
Great advise on the videos. This helped a lot on narrowing down so many choices.
Steve C.
23:08 27 Aug 17
Terry A.
03:24 19 Aug 17
Brandon S.
19:25 31 Jul 17
Brandon B.
20:14 19 Jun 17
Curt C.
20:45 15 Jun 17
all is reviews are on target i do alot of reviews before i buy something an out of all the utube guys an gals this guy... is far better than anyone out there now with that said i think i deserve a 10% discount thats how it works i give you a good review i get mnie too lol just kidding keep up with the videos thanksread more
Bobby B.
13:00 15 Jun 17
Brett W.
05:41 09 Jun 17
Tom Logan I.
04:57 22 May 17
Great unbiased reviews. I just put myself on the waiting list for the Uniden R3.
Kent Riegl J.
01:17 16 May 17
I THINK...all the information they have on RADAR DETECTORS AND RADAR/LASER JAMMERS IS REALLY CLASSIC AND COOL....
Lutu R.
03:39 11 May 17
Richard A.
20:42 09 May 17
Great unbiased reviews. Very thorough / excellent video quality. Full look at all the features and comparison points.
Donny C.
22:35 14 Apr 17
Love the reviews, tips, and tricks! He has even taken the time to respond to questions concerning setups and... installations! Thanks to his advice I was able to hard-wire my Valentine1 in my MX-5. Awesome guy with awesome content.read more
Anthony F.
15:39 05 Mar 17
Glen B.
00:08 03 Mar 17
Wonderful tutorials and a wealth of knowledge! There is so much information here that will help one in finding answers... to the many questions that arise.read more
Patrick P.
10:39 10 Feb 17
Awesome reviews glad to see some one honest and non bias keep up the good work mate :)
Bart R. D.
03:34 25 Jan 17
Jonathan F.
22:40 28 Dec 16
Awesome information. Reviews are spot on with his competition. More importantly, he is not a salesman.
Joshua S.
06:10 28 Dec 16
Tyler B.
20:10 09 Dec 16
He seems to be a great, honest guy. His reviews seem to be honest, straight forward, and correct.
Natalie B.
13:36 02 Dec 16
D'Arcy R.
00:18 26 Oct 16
Incredible knowledge of radar detectors. Keep up the amazing work!
Uniden R9
