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Handheld Police Scanner Portable Comparison - October 2025
| 1 Best Choice  9.9Exceptional | 2  9.8Exceptional | 3 Best Value  9.5Excellent | 4  9.3Excellent | 5  9.2Excellent | 6  9.0Excellent | 7  8.8Very Good |
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ModelUniden SDS100 True I/Q Digital Handheld Scanner, Designed for Improved Digital Performance in Weak-Signal and Simulcast Areas, Rugged / Weather Resistant JIS 4 Construction | Model Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock, Snooze, FM Radio, Weather Alerts, Search Bands used for Aviation, Railroad, Marine, Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety transmissions and more | Model Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner, 500-Alpha-Tagged Channels, Close Call Technology, PC Programable, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, NASCAR, Racing, and Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety. | Model Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner, 300 Channels, 10 banks, Close Call Technology, PC Programable, NOAA Weather, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, NASCAR, and Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety | Model Uniden Bearcat SR30C, 500-Channel Compact Handheld Scanner, Close Call RF Capture, Turbo Search, PC programable, NASCAR, Racing, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, and Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety | Model Uniden BCD325P2 Handheld TrunkTracker V Scanner. 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels. Close Call RF Capture Technology. Location-Based Scanning and S.A.M.E. Weather Alert. Compact Size. | Model Uniden Bearcat BCD160DN Handheld Digital Scanner, Exclusive Features, Band Scope Rapid System/Channel Number Tagging, Narrow-Band Reception, and Search Features to Detect Signals Faster Than Ever |
BrandUniden | Brand Uniden | Brand Uniden | Brand Uniden | Brand Uniden | Brand Uniden | Brand Uniden |
Reviews | Reviews | Reviews  | Reviews | Reviews | Reviews | Reviews  |
Features | ||||||
Simple to use 8.6 | Simple to use 8.4 | Simple to use 7.2 | Simple to use 7.7 | Simple to use 7.7 | Simple to use 7.0 | Simple to use 7.0 |
Battery duration 8.6 | Battery duration 8.9 | Battery duration 8.1 | Battery duration 8.4 | Battery duration 8.1 | Battery duration 7.2 | Battery duration 7.0 |
Worth the money 8.6 | Worth the money 8.9 | Worth the money 8.1 | Worth the money 8.6 | Worth the money 8.1 | Worth the money 8.4 | Worth the money 7.4 |
Audio quality 9.4 | Audio quality 9.1 | Audio quality 9.1 | Audio quality 8.6 | Audio quality 7.7 | Audio quality 8.1 | Audio quality 7.2 |
Lasts a long time 9.3 | Lasts a long time 8.9 | Lasts a long time 9.3 | Lasts a long time 9.1 | Lasts a long time 7.7 | Lasts a long time 7.6 | Lasts a long time 8.1 |
Tech Specs | ||||||
product dimensions5.5 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches | product dimensions 8.46 x 3.35 x 8.46 inches | product dimensions 4.33 x 2.17 x 7.28 inches | product dimensions 1 x 5 x 3 inches | product dimensions 7.5 x 4.5 x 2.4 inches | product dimensions 10 x 1 x 2 inches | product dimensions 4 x 3 x 7 inches |
item weight0.493 ounces | item weight 1 pounds | item weight 1.76 ounces | item weight 14.4 ounces | item weight 14.9 ounces | item weight 1 pounds | item weight 1 pounds |
customer reviews4.5 4.5 out of 5 stars 996 ratings 4.5 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars 5, 421 ratings 4.3 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars 8, 422 ratings 4.0 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 4.1 4.1 out of 5 stars 2, 949 ratings 4.1 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 4.0 4.0 out of 5 stars 2, 642 ratings 4.0 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 940 ratings 4.2 out of 5 stars | customer reviews 2.5 2.5 out of 5 stars 2 ratings 2.5 out of 5 stars |
batteries1 Product Specific batteries required. | batteries 3 AA batteries required. | batteries 2 AA batteries required. included | batteries 2 AA batteries required. | batteries - | batteries 4 AA batteries required. included | batteries 2 AA batteries required. included |
whats in the boxDigital Handheld Scanner | whats in the box 500 Channel Clock/ FM Radio Scanner with Weather Alert | whats in the box Civil & Military Aircraft Bands, Free Software Available Online, Usb Cable, Uniden Bearcat 500 Channel Alpha Numeric Hand Held Radio Scanner | whats in the box Attached Belt Clip, Usb Cable, Bc75Xlt Scanner, Antenna | whats in the box - | whats in the box Uniden BCD325P2 Radio | whats in the box AA Rechargeable Batteries, Antenna, USB Cable, Hand Strap, and Owner's Manual |
other display featuresWireless | other display features Wireless | other display features Wireless | other display features Wireless | other display features - | other display features Wireless | other display features Wireless |
connectivity technologiesUSB | connectivity technologies USB | connectivity technologies - | connectivity technologies Wi-Fi | connectivity technologies - | connectivity technologies gps | connectivity technologies USB |
colorSingle | color - | color Multicolor | color BC75XLT | color - | color - | color Black |
scanner resolution24 Bits | scanner resolution 1200 | scanner resolution - | scanner resolution 1200 | scanner resolution - | scanner resolution 300 | scanner resolution - |
special features- | special features Built-In Clock | special features search channels more efficiently | special features Portable | special features - | special features - | special features Rechargeable |
department- | department unisex-adult | department Electronics | department unisex-adult | department - | department unisex-adult | department - |
Review- | Review | Review | Review | Review | Review | Review - |
Available On  | Available On  | Available On | Available On | Available On | Available On | Available On |
Our Top 3 Picks
Here are the top 3 recommended products with more information to help you find the right product for you
9.9
1UnidenUniden SDS100 True I/Q Digital Handheld Scanner, Designed for Improved Digital Performance in Weak-Signal and Simulcast Areas, Rugged / Weather Resistant JIS 4 Construction
9.4 audio quality9.3 lasts a long time8.6 Simple to useWhy we love it
Exceptional digital signal reception.
Easy setup with zip code entry.
Customizable display for user preferences.
-
9.8
2Uniden
Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock, Snooze, FM Radio, Weather Alerts, Search Bands used for Aviation, Railroad, Marine, Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety transmissions and more
9.1 audio quality8.9 Battery Duration8.9 worth the moneyWhy we love it
Versatile all-in-one device.
500 channels for diverse listening.
Built-in alarm and FM radio.
-
9.5
3Uniden30% Off
Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner, 500-Alpha-Tagged Channels, Close Call Technology, PC Programable, Aviation, Marine, Railroad, NASCAR, Racing, and Non-Digital Police/Fire/Public Safety.
9.3 lasts a long time9.1 audio quality8.1 Battery DurationWhy we love it
Easy to categorize 500 channels.
Automatically detects local transmissions.
Lightweight and portable design.
Handheld Police Scanner Portable Buyer's Guide
Written by Jim WilliamsIntroduction
Handheld police scanners are portable devices designed to pick up radio transmissions from police, emergency services, and other government agencies. They allow you to tune in to local emergency channels and listen in on what is happening in your area. Handheld police scanners come in a variety of models and styles, with different features and capabilities. It can be difficult to decide which model is right for you, so the following guide will provide information on the main features and types of handheld police scanners available.
Types of Handheld Police Scanners
There are three main types of handheld police scanners: analog, digital, and trunking. Analog scanners are the most basic type, allowing you to listen to analog radio signals from police, fire, and other service agencies. Digital scanners are more advanced and allow you to listen to digital radio signals from police and other services. Trunking scanners are the most sophisticated type, providing access to a variety of radio systems, including trunking systems used by many police and emergency services. Each type of scanner has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Features to Look for in a Handheld Police Scanner
When choosing a handheld police scanner, it is important to consider the features available. Many scanners come with basic features such as signal strength indicators, adjustable squelch settings, and adjustable frequency ranges. More advanced scanners may offer digital signal processing, dual-channel monitoring, and trunking capabilities. It is also important to consider the user interface, as some scanners are easier to use than others.
Bands and Frequency Coverage
Another important factor to consider when choosing a handheld police scanner is the bands and frequency coverage. Different models have different frequency coverage and can only receive signals from certain bands. Some scanners may only be able to receive FM signals, while others are able to receive AM, UHF, and VHF signals. It is important to know the frequency coverage of the scanner you are considering in order to ensure it will be able to pick up the signals you are interested in.
Compatibility with Other Devices
When selecting a handheld police scanner, you should also consider its compatibility with other devices. Many scanners come with accessories such as headsets and external antennas that can be used to improve reception. In addition, some scanners are compatible with computers, allowing you to access frequencies and signals from your computer. It is important to research the compatibility of the scanner you are considering before purchasing.
Price
The price of handheld police scanners can vary widely, from less than $100 for basic models to several hundred dollars for more advanced models. It is important to consider your budget when purchasing a scanner, and to make sure you are getting the features and capabilities you need at a price you can afford.
Our ranking system
At BestChoice.com, our team curates a selection of top products from a vast array available online, using a sophisticated ranking system based on carefully defined criteria.While traditional hands-on testing has its merits, our use of AI technology offers distinct advantages. AI allows us to process and analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources, providing a comprehensive view that goes beyond what manual testing can achieve. This approach enables us to deliver insights that are aligned with current trends and consumer preferences, ensuring our reviews are both relevant and up-to-date.
Features
Our AI-driven analysis examines key attributes, capabilities, and other critical factors tailored to each product category. This method allows us to assess effectiveness from various perspectives, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation.
Consumer Reviews
We aggregate and evaluate consumer feedback from across the internet, giving weight to ratings and reviews that reflect the most reliable insights. AI enhances this process by filtering and prioritizing data, offering a balanced view without the need for direct personal endorsements.
Popularity
Our system also considers the popularity of products, analyzing factors such as market presence, reputation, and user satisfaction. By leveraging AI, we capture a comprehensive picture of a product's standing in the market, which may not always be evident through traditional testing.
Value for money
AI allows us to compare products based on attributes like price, specifications, and user feedback, helping to determine their value for money. This data-driven approach offers an efficient and reliable way to assess how products stack up against one another in terms of cost-effectiveness.
