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.
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.
Best Analog: Uniden Bearcat Bc75xlt Handheld Scanner
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Has close call RF technology
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Simplistic design
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Weaker reception in some areas
Featuring the ability to connect to public safety, military aircraft, and racing scanner channels, Unidens BC75XLT is a terrific choice for analog scanner fans. The built-in search functionality is second-to-none, and it quickly identifies channels for police, fire, marine, air, weather, and more, which makes the BC75XLT a very much pickup-and-go analog scanner.
You can save 300 channels into the scanners memory or 30 channels total in 10 separate banks. This makes it easy to scan for current transmissions on each stored channel. Additionally, the inclusion of Close Call RF capture technology assists the BC75XLT in identifying and detecting nearby transmissions, even if they arent pre-programmed into a channel. Powered by two AA batteries, the BC75XLT is both lightweight and designed to fit in the hand. Overall, it has good reception as long as youre in a strong signal area.
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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.
Best Digital Police Scanner
Our Rating:
This model offers the Skywarn Storm Spotter feature, which will give you instant access to all frequencies that are used by storm spotter agencies. With most digital models, you may struggle with audio levels, which is why buyers love the digital AGC feature which is designed to compensate for low audio levels. The scan list feature allows you to arrange frequencies for quicker and easier access. The pre-programmed frequencies will allow you to quickly access important emergency agencies including fire, ambulance, and police.
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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.
Trunking System Of The Radio Scanner
The trunking system is designed to listen to multiple agencies using only two to three frequencies. It works best in congested circumstances, which means that a device with a trunking system works best in city areas. Radios with a trunking system can pick conventional signals. A conventional system cannot pick trunking signals.
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Best For Home: Uniden Homepatrol
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Doesn’t include a power adapter
With an easy to rest stand, the Uniden HomePatrol-2 digital scanner with a pre-programmed database is a highly functional scanner thats perfect for any room in the house. Including specialized features such as quick record and playback, the Uniden is a highly recommended digital scanner that can be up and running in minutes. Theres no programming needed herejust enter your zip code and HomePatrol-2 will load all the recognized police, fire, and EMS channels in the surrounding area. It includes channel information for the US and Canada from radioreference.com.
Weighing just over a pound, the HomePatrol-2 is easy to tote around. Additionally, the inclusion of a touch screen was an industry first with the HomePatrol-2. Uniden also includes rechargeable batteries that last between five to six hours. It comes with a USB charging cord that you can connect to a standard USB power brick.
Best Portable Police Scanner
Our Rating:
Use this model to quickly access channels for police, ambulance, fire, public safety, weather, military, and aircrafts. Its both analog and digital capable, and comes with a desk stand, flex antenna for improved reception and range, and a USB cable. The simple setup is a huge selling point for beginners, especially considering many competing models can be very complicated to use. For this model, all you have to do is enter a zip code and the scanner will take care of the rest, giving you instant access to a variety of local channels.
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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.
Shift To New Police Scanners Carries Heavy Price Tag
Free to Local Residents!
Lots of people have gone into the Radio Shack store in Shakopee recently to inquire about digital-compatible police scanners, said store Manager Matthew Fiega. But not many have made a purchase.
Police and fire departments in Scott County this month began installing new digital 800-megahertz-compatible radios.
While emergency communication can still be heard on the old analog system as radios are tested, the county expects to pull the plug by the end of the year. Then, local scanner fans will have a choice to make: pony up several hundred dollars for a new scanner or hear a lot less talk.
With a price tag around $500, many people are waiting, hoping digital scanners will come down.
Like anything when brand new, its expensive, said Charles Jacky, interoperable communications coordinator for the Metropolitan Emergency Services Board.Current analog scanners can be purchased for less than $100.Although most agencies in the metro area have switched to digital radio, Fiega hasnt seen the price shift in the last few years.New models come out in the $500 range, although, as of Monday, an older model could be ordered through Radio Shack for $380. The store sold out of the few digital scanners it had on clearance.
Scanners can also be purchased at Action Radio in Maple Grove.
Most common police scanners wont work, he said. However, there are scanners that do work.
You have to use a computer, pretty much, Fiega said.
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The Best Police Scanners For Your Money
Amarilis YeraBrad Tuttle14 min read
Bottom Line
Ideal for novice and veteran enthusiasts alike, the BCD536HP is pre-programmed to access frequencies nationwide and you can listen to transmissions on your phone.
Pros
Scanner can be controlled with a mobile device through Unidens Siren app.
Cons
Some users complain that the app crashes frequently.
Bottom Line
The Uniden BCD996P2 is compatible with all the latest digital signals and has most of the capabilities of top-of-the-line scanners, only for a lower price of around $400.
Pros
Can detect some nearby signals even without programming.
Cons
Needs manual programming to access the full array of frequencies.
Bottom Line
For around $100, the WS1025 can tap into local analog signals, as well as NOAA alerts and some frequencies used by storm spotter networks.
Pros
Stores up to 200 frequencies categorized by signal type, like fire or police.
Cons
Analog scanners are becoming less useful as agencies switch to digital.
Bottom Line
The combo BearTracker 855 allows you to talk to other CB radios users while scanning for police, fire, EMS, and other available frequencies.
Pros
Integrated GPS automatically detects nearby frequencies as you move.
Cons
Some users complain the unit makes a frequent beeping noise.
Bottom LinePros
Alarm clock feature will turn unit on and start scanning at a specific time each day.
Cons
Best For Low Prices: Whistler Ws1025 Analog Desktop Scanner
If what you want is a basic but reliable scanner for a very reasonable price, the Whistler WS1025 analog scanner fits the bill nicely. For around $100, this scanner can access emergency weather alerts by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and frequencies used by storm spotter networks teams of volunteers that provide reports directly to the National Weather Service.
The Whistler WS1025 is an analog scanner, so your access to police, fire and medical emergencies departments may be limited . But if you live in a smaller town, and the signals youre interested in are analog, look no further.
The WS1025 has enough memory to store up to 200 channels. You can input frequencies manually or with a computer and categorize them into separate banks or lists based on signal type . You can also set a priority channel to be scanned every two seconds, even when youre searching for other available frequencies.
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A Great Way To Stay Informed And Up To Date
- University of Maryland
Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the bestproducts youcan learn more about ourreview process here.We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
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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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.
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Whistler Ws1025 Analog Scanner
The Whistler WS1025 Analog Desktop Scanner is something I can highly recommend. I have been using it for a while, and have been totally satisfied with its performance. It has first-rate features that I find very convenient to use, like programming and directly creating backup data from my PC. I can easily tune in to new channels and save them for quick browsing later.
I also find the lock-out feature advantageous that way, I can avoid connecting to reserved frequencies like military or other confidential operations during scanning. Speaking of scanning, the two-second delay is a good detail for me. This allows me to hear if the scanned frequency will have replies before the device moves to the next one.
The Weather and hazard detection or alerts work well, and I considered it a very dependable feature, especially if Im on the road. It allows me to be ahead of all the happenings in my area and makes me feel safe. This is especially useful when my phone is dead or out of coverage.
I love the Priority Channel feature because it enables me to check one channel every two seconds while scanning ensuring that I can monitor events within my area while still maintaining situational awareness.
- Easy to program and create a backup file
- Lock-out function skips unwanted channels or frequencies
- Scan delay feature avoids missing replies
- Keeps you ahead and updated with necessary information
- Weak radio signals from moving units
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Are Police Scanners Legal In Your State
First and foremost, you dont want to buy a police scanner if these tools arent legal for use in the state or county in which you live. In most states, its perfectly legal to own a police scanner. But theres a catch: You cant always operate that scanner legally.
In many states, you can own a scanner but you cannot carry it with you. That makes mobile police scanners, like smartphone police scanner apps or handheld scanners used while youre on the go, illegal. And in many states, its also illegal to install a scanner in your car. However, if you use your police scanner at home, youre perfectly fine.
And in certain states, like Florida, Indiana, and New York, its legal to use a mobile police scanner, but only if you have a license from the FCC or permission from local law enforcement.
How do you know where to draw the line? Well, its a good rule of thumb to keep your police scanner at home and not take it on the go with you. Essentially, most states rule that police scanners are illegal when theyre mobile and used in the commission of a crime. But if youre unsure what, exactly, is legal in your hometown, make sure to look at your state laws on scanners for total clarity.
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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.