Sources That Stream Live Police Scanner Feeds Online
There are several good reasons why you would want to listen to live police scanner chatter. Its entertaining for one, and it also keeps you informed on various police investigations. Fortunately, you can take advantage of free police scanner resources online so that you dont have to pay for the privilege.
Best For Home: Whistler Ws1065 Desktop Digital Scanner
Whistler
Why It Made The Cut: This police scanner offers everything one needs for monitoring emergency services agencies from home while remaining at a reasonable price.
Specs: Dimensions: 7.3 inches long by 5.3 inches wide by 2.2 inches thick Type: Digital
Easy to store and cycle through presets Connects to storm chaser frequencies Automatically boosts low audio levels Affordably priced
Cons: This scanner gives you all the functionality you need for a digital scanner thats limited to home use at a reasonable price.
The Whistler doesn’t have the automated zip-code-frequency searching that other digital scanners have, but that isn’t really a feature you need if your scanner is sitting in one location. You can manually program frequencies or use the Whistler software by downloading it from the Whistler site and loading it onto the scanner via a USB cable.
Once set up, this scanner makes it easy to group frequencies by preference so you can cycle through them quickly. A digital display clearly shows signal strength, frequency, and the name of the channel, while a memory backup ensures you won’t lose your presets in the event of a power outage.
A Great Way To Stay Informed And Up To Date
- University of Maryland
Erika Rawes has written for Digital Trends, USA Today, and Cheatsheet.com and has tested dozens of consumer technology products for multiple tech sites.
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproductslearn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
The best police scanners are easy to set up and use, providing clear audio quality on a broad range of frequencies.
For most people, we think our best budget pick, the Uniden BC365CRS is the one you should just buy.
Police scanners let you stay on top of local events and ahead of the curve in several potentially dangerous situations. You can also use a police scanner to stay abreast of local news before itâs reported on television, you can get weather alerts and find out about an impending natural disaster, or you can tune into amateur radio channels. The best police scanners can also serve as an alternative to a standalone CB radio or radar detector, so read on to see your options.
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Whats The Best Scanner Equipped With The Zip Code Scan Feature
I recommend the Uniden Home Patrol- Simple Program Digital Scanner, which allows you to simply enter in your zip code and the device will automatically scan for local frequencies. This is a very beginner-friendly model that offers excellent range and clarity, easy setup, and plenty of other features that will help to keep you up to date with local events as they happen.
What Is The Newest Police Scanner
The 7 Best Police Scanners of 2021
- Best Overall: Uniden BearTracker 885 at Amazon. …
- Best Budget: Uniden BC365CRS at Amazon. …
- Best for Home: Uniden HomePatrol-2 at Amazon. …
- Best Digital: Uniden BCD996P2 at Amazon. …
- Best Analog: Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner at Amazon. …
- Best Vehicle: …
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How Is The Uniden Brand
Uniden an alright brand. Theyre well-known within the world of scanners and radio equipment. That name recognition has to do a lot with how affordable their scanners are. If somebody is looking to get into the world of radio, Uniden provides a low-cost means of doing so.
Here is my big issue with Uniden: that affordability seemingly comes at the expense of durability. Uniden scanners just arent built as tough as some other companies out there. My local radio store operator confirmed this for me. He says that Uniden products are consistently being brought to his shop needing repairs.
While the radio store guy specifically talked about CB radios, I would imagine that fragility can be applied across the brand board
Best Smartphone App: Smartest Apps 5
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No equipment necessary
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It actually works
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In-app purchasing
While the focus of scanners is almost always concentrated on the utilitarian design of the handheld and car-ready hardware, theres a new and most formidable entry in the market. The 5-0 Radio Police Scanner app, which has millions of downloads. Users can listen to feeds in the background, including police/EMS/fire and military codes, as well as both aircraft and train feeds.
Theres even international coverage where available, so the scanner app can detect your location and determine relevant feeds youll want to follow. Currently free in both the Apple Store and Google Play, theres also a pro option that offers 50,000 more feeds.
The BearTracker 885s included GPS, CB radio, and noise-canceling microphone make it an excellent choice for truckers or anyone who spends a lot of time on the road. For an inexpensive handheld option, the Uniden Bearcat BC365CRS is a good model to check out. If you want to try out scanning, test out the free 5-0 Radio Police Scannerapp.
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Best Overall: Uniden Bcd536hp Homepatrol Series Base/mobile Scanner
The Uniden BCD536HP is an excellent digital police scanner for novice and experienced users alike. It comes pre-programmed with access to over 10,000 frequencies in the U.S. and Canada. Simply turn on the unit, enter your zip code and the scanner automatically detects channels for police and fire departments, emergency medical services and weather alerts within a 20- to 50-mile radius.
Available frequencies are not limited to pre-programmed ones either. The included database can be updated using a computer, and the unit has a scanning feature that discovers nearby frequencies that may not be already registered. If the scanner is going to be installed in a vehicle used for frequent travel, hook it up to Unidens GPS receiver , and it will continuously adjust to local frequencies while on the move.
It comes with a 4GB microSD memory card to let you record and replay transmissions. This model also gives you the power to store lists of your favorite frequencies, create custom searches , set up custom alerts for when the scanner detects activity, and scan based on service type .
Note that while this could be a selling point, some users are dissatisfied with the apps functionality, claiming that it crashes frequently.
Best Overall: Uniden Homepatrol Series Digital Handheld Scanner
Uniden
Why It Made The Cut: An easy-to-use design that automatically populates frequencies coupled with cool additional features make this handheld the best all-around police scanner on the market.
Specs: Dimensions: 9 inches long by 3.8 inches wide by 2.4 inches thick Type: Digital
Uses GPS to automatically find available frequencies Records up to four minutes of broadcasts for playback Automatically searches for new frequencies Allows you to customize alerts
Cons: One of the more expensive police scanners on the market
With a user-friendly design that makes it easy to locate and a host of useful additional features, it’s little wonder why Uniden’s handheld digital scanner is the best you can buy. One of its best features is its ability to make locating frequencies easy. Simply enter the zip code, and it populates the available channels for you from Uniden’s database, eliminating any need to fiddle with dials or buttons. With its GPS receiver, it will also automatically populate available frequencies as you move through different locales, eliminating the need to fiddle with dials while you drive. This model also incorporates Uniden’s Close Call RF Capture feature, which continually scans the area to find frequencies that are in close proximity, such as a conversation between two people using handheld radios.
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Keep An Eye On The Cops: The Best Police Scanner Apps
Whether youre following protests or just wondering why theres a helicopter hovering over your neighborhood, police scanner apps help you stay informed on what the cops are up to.
PC hardware is nice, but its not much use without innovative software. Ive been reviewing software for PCMag since 2008, and I still get a kick of seeing what’s new in video and photo editing software, and how operating systems change over time. I was privileged to byline the cover story of the last print issue of PC Magazine, the Windows 7 review, and Ive witnessed every Microsoft win and misstep up to the latest Windows 11.
Editors Pick: Uniden Bcd996p2 Digital Scanner
The Uniden BCD996P2 is ideal for anyone interested in taking up radio scanning as a serious hobby. Priced at around $400, it offers pretty much everything top-of-the-line models do at a lower price.
It can pick up both analog and digital signals but, unlike the BCD536HP, its not pre-programmed so youll need to input frequencies manually. This may seem complex for a beginner, but scanner enthusiasts say this process can actually prove enjoyable for people who are truly interested in mastering their new hobby.
The BCD996P2 can detect certain nearby transmissions on its own without programming however, the range isnt always consistent and the signals must be extremely strong in order to be picked up.
The BCD996P2 has enough memory to store up to 25,000 channels, along with number tags that allow you to quickly switch between frequencies without going through them one by one . You can assign number tags to service searches or custom search ranges youve created as well.
Other useful features include National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration alerts, a list of priority channels that you want to scan continuously while listening to other transmissions, a key lock to prevent unwanted modifications, 100 quick keys for your customized scanning parameters and alerts for specific channels with different tone and volume patterns.
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Vehicle Mount For Mobile Use
Thanks to the mounting bracket, you caneasily use the scanner in your vehicle and take it with you on the road. Justconnect the mobile antenna and youll get a clear reception without anytransmission interruptions.
In addition, the Uniden BC355N comes withthree power options , so you can use it just about anywhere.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Police Scanner
Before you buy just any police scanner within your budget, its important to know what youre getting into. There are a number of different product options in different sizes and each scanner can include different features and functionality. Additionally, youve got to make sure the police scanners youre considering are legal for use in your hometown.
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Update Your Channel List
Not a lot of people know this , but most police forces will change the radio frequencies that they use several times per year. This means that out of the box, your police scanner may not be able to find any channels in the local area.
Not to worry. Most decent police scanners nowadays will have an SD card built into them that will allow you to up the channel list. Your radio manufacturer will likely have software that allows you to do this.
If your radio scanner doesnt have an updateable channel list, then there is still no need to panic. You can use a site like RadioReference.com to find the current frequencies for your local area. You will just have to manually program them in, which shouldnt be too difficult.
How Do You Listen To Encrypted Police Channels
As we have covered above, that in order to have access to encrypted police channels, you will need to have a radio thats programmed with the encryption key.
The encryption key is necessary to decrypt the transmission and allow you to listen in.
If you are one of those radio enthusiasts this can be a bummer. With all that said, you can still listen into to the fire service, Utility departments, air crafts and towers which can be interesting as well
So you cant listen to police encrypted radio unless your radio can de-encrypt it.
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When Did Police Radio Encryption Begin
Different states have different laws regarding police radio encryptions.
Back in the days, the police used to have analogue radios, and if you wanted to listen in, you had to go buy a radio that can tune into the frequency, that is how you can listen to police radio.
But now, they have changed the system from analogue to digital and you can tap into it with an app and an internet connection, you can tune in from anywhere around the world.
With ease of access to police radio transmissions, came problems that came from misinformation which spread rumors and also put officers lives at risk, hence the need for encryptions
However, some channels are left open as these are backups, tactical, car-to car use or for communicating with the general public.
Dont Wait To Hear About It On The Local News
The best police scanners give you the 411 on police activity in your neighborhood or on the route you’re traveling, helping you to steer clear of potential traffic hazards or dangerous situations. Unlike the crackly broadcasts of old analog scanners, today’s police scanners use digital technology to broadcast clear static-free transmissions. Many make finding local frequencies easy with access to vast GPS databases that allow them to automatically populate local channels on the device automatically.
Police scanners range from desktop models to handheld scanners that resemble walkie-talkies. There are even apps that will turn your smartphone into a police scanner. Read on to find out more about what you should look for in a good police scanner and find out why the models below are the best police scanners.
Best App:Scanner 5-0
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Best Digital: Uniden Bcd996p2
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Some features require paid upgrades
There arent that many brands in the police scanner game , but Uniden is a major player in the world of scanners. Meant as a one-stop-shop for analog scanning and digital transmissions, the Uniden BCD99P2 is one of the better scanners out there. Whatever your needs, the BCD99P2 most likely has you covered, even if it does so in a fairly large package.
The BCD99P2 is capable of location-based scanning, and it can detect nearby radio transmissions. The TrunkTracker V scanner also offers continuous band coverage spanning 25 MHz to 1.3 GHz. Factor in 25,000 different dynamically allocated channels, and youll have enough options to cover all your local systems, recalled via the intuitive internal memory of the unit. It all comes in a compact 11 x 3.75 x 8.5-inch unit with a bright display and easy-to-navigate controls.
Other Important Factors To Consider
I specifically do not name a specific model as the greatest police scanner for sale on the market right now. This is because everyone does not have the same need. Here are some other things that you should consider when youre planning to buy a scanner.
What is the Best Police Scanner?
You can scour online for digital police scanner reviews, and they will come up with different options. I cannot advise a single scanner because people have different needs and requirements. You have to look at your application and your budget before I can even begin to suggest any model.
Who Is This For?
Radio frequencies are typically used by government and civilian agencies for fast and reliable local communication. Police, fire, EMS, military, and aviation services are some of the most prominent radio users.
A scanner is used to monitor these frequencies to be updated in local events. This is especially true for journalists and investigators, as well as private security firms. These devices help a person or an organization increase their situational awareness by keeping track of radio transmissions.
Radio scanning is also a popular hobby and lets people communicate with different communities via wireless radio signal networks. The NOAA and some state governments also use these networks to transmit weather and other relevant warnings.
How Does It Work?
This technology has allowed people to monitor multiple channels at once, without the need for multiple radio devices.
Signal Format
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Best Overall: Uniden Beartracker 885
Amazon
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Hybrid CB radio and trunk-tracking scanner
Although its one of the pricier options on this list, the Uniden Beartracker 885 is a full-featured CB radio and digital trunk tracking police scanner. It has GPS included, so it can automatically select nearby channels from its database . You dont have to do any sort of complex programming while you drive, as the scanner does the work for you. It provides weather alerts, PA functionality, and more, and you can easily read the LCD.
For anyone who spends a lot of time on the road, this is an excellent device for communications, safety, and general peace of mind. It alerts you when theres a nearby public safety transmission, so it serves as a radar detector alternative. The BearTracker 885 has a noise-canceling mic that allows for clear conversation, and its also wireless mic compatible.
Best For Car: Uniden Beartracker
Uniden
Why It Made The Cut: The Beartracker seamlessly combines a quality CB radio with an impressive police scanner, making it a worthy choice for those who demand both functions.
Specs: Dimensions: 15.1 inches long by 8.6 inches deep by 3.6 inches high Type: Digital
Functions as both a CB and police scanner Built-in GPS automatically adjusts for location Has access to Unidens impressive database of frequencies Can also provide radar detection functions
Cons: More expensive than standard police scanners Doesnt allow you to program frequencies
While it may be pricey, the Uniden Beartrackers additional cost is worth it for those who want to send as well as receive transmissions. It functions as a hybrid scanner with a full 40-channel CB radio. The CB works seamlessly with the scanner, allowing you to switch between the two with the push of a button. While that alone makes it worth the extra price for someone who values both the functions of a scanner and a CB radio, there are other features that make BearCat a great choice.
It comes equipped with a built-in GPS that automatically selects nearby channels from the Uniden database as youre driving, so you dont have to fiddle with knobs as you move from location to location . The BearCat supports trunk tracking and will also broadcast weather alerts from NOAA though its important to note that the Beartracker doesnt support manually entering frequencies.
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