I am looking to buy a quality radar detector and was wondering what the marginal benefit of the top of the line detectors is. I will be spending about $300 and am leaning strongly towards the Escort 8500. Does the extra $200 for the V1 or Escort 9500 really make that much of a difference? I know radar detectors are of little use with laser and instant-on, so what is the point of spending the extra money when a mid range detector will suffice?



Lastly, what is the best detector in the $200 to $300 range?



Thanks for the advice!

 

I think my Cobra cost about $39-49 and works perfectly fine. It doesn't tell me from which direction the laser caught me already, but it's great for scanning the area and telling me when K band is in use.



http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...u=SPM178118285



I think that's a newer model than my 6 year old device.





Model: ESD 7400 $30 http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...2970000P?mv=rr



TN State Troopers don't use laser anyways. It's too costly to get them calibrated for the entire department, according to a trooper. If they catch you with LIDAR or laser, it's too late anyways.

 

Yes, the $400 V1 is worth it. I've picked up cops several miles away. I was using a friend's Escort once and I was only about 1/2 mile away from one when it started going off. It didn't go into full alert until I could see the cop.

 

I also have a $40 cobra from target or somewhere. Been in excellent working order for 5 years now, haven't gotten pulled over once (with me driving) since i owned it.



I can't imagine spending more than $50 on one when the cheapest one will suffice

 

I've only had my $30-40 Cobra Radar Detector, but I would trust I8acobra's review of the Valentine if you're willing to spend that much.

 

I've got the Escort S2. I agree it only picks up cops once they are practically in range, but it gets the job done and picks up laser. I wouldn't pay twice that much for a better one but if money is not an part of the equation sure why not.

 

I got a $50 cobra radar/ladar detector/with detector detecter! which saves my ass daily