Cobra iRadar 200 (for iPhone and Android)

usability, price, performance, design, size

reliability, durability

70% of the reviews on Amazon.com give this product a positive rating.

Clear interface and alert status. Reliably detects police when they're present and clocking drivers. Detects X, K, and Ka bands, and can also detect laser.

Short detection distances. Lots of false alarms, although you can fine-tune them over time with the app. User-reported, crowd-sourced alerts are hit or miss.

Performance and Conclusions Cobra claims the iRadar 200 detects 14 different radar types, including X, K, and Ka-band radar, VG-2, and six kinds of laser guns, with 360-degree protection from all sides. On the road, the iRadar 200 performed in line...

Simple, well-designed app interface. Detects X, K, and Ka bands as well as laser. Clear alerts are easy to understand. Worked seamlessly in testing.

Crowd-sourced user reports generate way too many false alarms. Could use more range for Ka band. Aside from the interface, the app adds little in the way of actual functionality over a traditional radar detector.

Other Notes and Conclusions Unfortunately, iRadar also lacks directional alerts, the way the market-leading (but non-smartphone-based) Valentine One ($399) works, and the way K-40 detectors worked 20 years ago. That means if there's a source of radar...

The Cobra iRadar works with or without a connected iPhone or iPod Touch. Its car charger has a powered USB port for keeping the paired iPhone charged. A free iPhone app allows users to fine-tune the iRadar's sensitivity and discern between actual...

You will have to bring your own iPhone cradle or car mount to effectively use the app, as the iRadar kit does not include one.

The Cobra iRadar is essentially a basic, albeit good, radar/laser detector. However, when paired with an iPhone running the iRadar app, it becomes a much more flexible and useful speed management tool.

Smaller size takes up less space ; Accurate in spotting threats ; Mobile app enhances the experience

It's pricier than previous models ; Audio output isn't as strong, sometimes drowning out