Best Frequency Radio Scanners of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Frequency radio scanners are devices that allow individuals to listen in on various radio frequencies used by different organizations such as police departments, fire departments, and emergency medical services. These scanners are popular among hobbyists and enthusiasts who are interested in monitoring public safety communications or staying up-to-date on local events. With the ability to scan multiple channels and frequencies, users can easily switch between different frequencies to get a comprehensive view of the radio communications in their area. Some frequency radio scanners also come equipped with features such as weather alerts and built-in speakers for enhanced audio quality.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner Cover#TOP 1
Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner
ftb score rating icon9.9
Uniden BC365CRS Analog Scanner and Alarm Clock Cover#TOP 2
Uniden BC365CRS Analog Scanner and Alarm Clock
ftb score rating icon9.8
Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner Cover#TOP 3
Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 10 Frequency Radio Scanners

Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner

BC125AT
Multicolor
computer
Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner Cover
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.
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

The Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner is a compact radio scanner with 500 alpha-tagged channels, Close Call RF capture technology, and PC programmable features. It offers the ability to listen to over 40,000 frequencies, including civilian and military bands, Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events. The lightweight portable design makes it easy to take on the go, and the preset feature allows for quick access to popular searches. Please note that this scanner is not suitable for trunking or digital radio system monitoring.

What We Like
500 alpha-tagged channels for easy organization and tracking of channels
Close Call RF capture technology quickly tunes to nearby transmitters
Lightweight portable design for on-the-go use

Uniden BC365CRS Analog Scanner and Alarm Clock

BC365CRS
Black
One Size
Uniden BC365CRS Analog Scanner and Alarm Clock Cover
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
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The Uniden BC365CRS is an all-in-one conventional Analog Scanner, Alarm Clock, and FM Radio with 500 channels that can store your favorite local broadcasts. It has a clear LCD backlit display that's easy to read at night, and the buttons are nicely laid out for ease of use. You can save your most important frequencies into priority channels and set the BC365CRS to wake you up to scanning, a weather channel, or your favorite FM station. Please note that this scanner is not for receiving digital communications.

What We Like
Can store up to 500 channels with convenient preset searches
Built-in FM radio and alarm clock with snooze and sleep functions
Attractive design that's easy to read and use
#TOP 3

Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner

BC355N
Black
One Size
Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner Cover
Uniden BC355N 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call Capture, Pre-programmed Search “Action” Bands to Hear Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, Amateur Radio, Public Utilities, Weather & more
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

The Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner is a comprehensive scanner that can pick up analog receptions such as Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, Marine, Air, Weather, and CB frequencies. Its pre-programmed search allows you to instantly tune to signals from nearby transmitters and helps you stay on top of local happenings and emergencies in your area. You can save up to 300 frequencies that are scanned along with the preset frequencies. The scanner comes with a backlit display, making it easier to read in low light conditions, and gives you more options for supplying power at home or in your car.

What We Like
Wide frequency range that covers various analog services
Close Call RF Capture Technology for easy detection of nearby transmitters
Ability to save up to 300 frequencies for quick access
#TOP 4

Uniden BearTracker Scanner (BCT15X)

BCT15X
Black
Uniden BearTracker Scanner (BCT15X) Cover
Uniden BearTracker Scanner (BCT15X) with 9,000 Channels, TrunkTracker III Technology, Base/Mobile Design, Close Call RF Capture Technology with Location-Based Scanning, - Black Color
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

The Uniden BearTracker Scanner (BCT15X) is a mobile scanner with 9,000 Channels, TrunkTracker III Technology, and Close Call RF Capture Technology. It features location-based scanning, state-by-state preprogrammed channels, and 100 system Quick Keys. The scanner offers continuous band coverage from 25MHz to 1.3GHz, excluding UHF TV and Cellular. Please note that this scanner is not compatible with digital communication.

What We Like
Large number of channels and TrunkTracker III technology allows users to keep up with the action of various systems.
Location-Based scanning and state-by-state preprogrammed channels make it easy to access local police, DOT, and Highway Patrol frequencies when traveling.
100 system Quick Keys and 10-channel group Quick Keys per system provide rapid access to frequently used channels.

Uniden BCD160DN Handheld Digital Scanner

BCD160DN
Black
Uniden BCD160DN Handheld Digital Scanner Cover
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
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The Uniden Digital Scanner offers exclusive features like Band Scope Rapid System/Channel Number Tagging, Narrow-band Reception, DCS/CTCSS Rapid Decode, and Preloaded DMR/NXDN. The Band Scope Rapid System/Channel Number Tagging helps you detect signals faster. The Narrow-band Reception ensures you don't miss any transmissions. DCS/CTCSS Rapid Decode quickly displays system settings. Preloaded DMR/NXDN allows immediate use of the scanner.

What We Like
Exclusive Features
Rapid Signal Detection
Preloaded DMR/NXDN
#TOP 6

Uniden Bearcat SR30C Handheld Scanner

SR30C
SR30C
Uniden Bearcat SR30C Handheld Scanner Cover
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
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

The Uniden Bearcat SR30C is a compact, hand-held scanner that is affordably priced and packed with features. With 500 channels and 32,000 preset frequencies, it's easy to find channels that interest you. The scanner is PC programmable, and the Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters. Other features include the delay function, memory backup, and three power options. The scanner is an excellent entry-level option for those who want to stay informed and listen in.

What We Like
Affordable price
32,000 preset frequencies
PC programmable
Close Call RF capture technology
Three power options
#TOP 7

Uniden BC365CRS and Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner

Uniden BC365CRS and Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner Cover
Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock with Snooze, Sleep, and FM Radio with Weather Alert, Search Bands & Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner. 500 Alpha-Tagged Channels
ftb score rating icon9.2
FTB Score

Uniden BC365CRS is a scanner with 500 channels in 10 banks, allowing easy search of commonly used bands for Police, Fire/EMS, Aircraft, Amateur Radio, and Marine transmissions. It has a built-in FM radio with 30 FM presets and an alarm clock with snooze and sleep. The Bearcat BC125AT is a handheld scanner with 500 alpha-tagged channels, lightweight and portable with an orange backlight display that is easy to read in low light conditions. It allows you to listen to over 40,000 frequencies, including Police, Ambulance, Fire, Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.

What We Like
Easy to search for local public safety and other interesting frequencies
Built-in FM radio with 30 FM presets
500 alpha-tagged channels for efficient channel finding
Lightweight and portable design
Listen to over 40,000 frequencies
#TOP 8

DiscoverIt DefCon DD1206

Discover It
DD1206-FBA
DiscoverIt DefCon DD1206 Cover
DiscoverIt DefCon DD1206 Professional Digital Radio Frequency RF Bluetooth, GSM (Cellular), WiFi, Detector Hunter Sweeper
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

DiscoverIt Detector Hunter Sweeper is a professional-grade digital radio frequency detector that can locate various transmitters in different frequency ranges. It can detect active GSM, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and RF signals with high sensitivity, providing a wide dynamic range. The correlation function helps discover FM transmitters by producing specific sounds. With 4 work modes and 2 levels of sensitivity, this device is durable and microprocessor controlled. It includes an extra antenna to avoid external interference, making it ideal for detecting wireless sources efficiently.

What We Like
Professional Grade
Wide Dynamic Range
Correlation Function
#TOP 9

Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner

BC75XLT
BC75XLT
Small
Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner Cover
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
ftb score rating icon8.9
FTB Score

The Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner allows you to listen in and stay informed with 300 user-programmable channels in a compact design featuring Close Call RF capture technology, which instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters. You can listen to over 32,000 frequencies, including civilian and military bands, and search more efficiently with 300 channels divided into 10 storage banks. The scanner has a lightweight portable design and convenient pre-sets for the most popular searches, making it easy to find channels that interest you. Please note that this product is not suitable for trunking or digital radio system monitoring.

What We Like
Compact design with 300 user-programmable channels
Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to nearby transmitters
Listen to over 32,000 frequencies
300 channels divided into 10 storage banks for efficient searches
Lightweight, portable design with convenient pre-sets
#TOP 10

Uniden BCD260DN Digital Scanner

BCD260DN
Black
Uniden BCD260DN Digital Scanner Cover
Uniden Bearcat BCD260DN Base/Mobile Digital Scanner, Performance Features, Band Scope Rapid System/Channel Number Tagging, Narrowband Reception, Search Features to Detect Signals Faster Than Ever
ftb score rating icon8.9
FTB Score

The Uniden BCD260DN Digital Scanner offers a range of features to enhance your scanning experience. With Band Scope Rapid System, you can quickly detect signals. Channel Number Tagging helps you organize channels efficiently. Narrowband Reception ensures clear reception of signals. The scanner comes preloaded with DMR/NXDN for immediate use out of the box. DCS/CTCSS Rapid Decode allows you to identify system settings promptly.

What We Like
Band Scope Rapid System
Preloaded DMR/NXDN
Narrowband Reception
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, the possession and use of RF scanners are generally legal. However, it is important to note that using a scanner during the commission of a crime or using the received messages to aid in the escape of custody is illegal. Additionally, some states prohibit the installation or use of scanners inside motor vehicles.

2. Is there an app that can pick up radio frequencies?

Yes, there are apps available that can pick up radio frequencies. One example is the Police Scanner app, which provides access to police and emergency scanner radio feeds from various sources.

3. Can you listen to a police scanner on your phone?

Yes, it is possible to listen to a police scanner on your phone. You can download a police radio app or visit a police scanner website to tune in and listen to police radio broadcasts.

4. Can you listen to encrypted police frequencies?

If an area has fully encrypted police frequencies, it is not possible to listen to them using a scanner. Full encryption cannot be bypassed. However, if an area has partial encryption, it may still be possible to monitor non-encrypted frequencies.

5. Do people still use radio scanners?

Yes, radio scanners are still used by individuals who want to monitor police activity in their area. As police continue to use digital or analog radio for communications, scanners provide a way for citizens to stay informed.

6. What is the app that detects RF signal?

RF Signal Tracker is an app that can detect and provide detailed information about signal strength. It can be used to track RF signals and determine signal frequency quality.

7. What states is it illegal to have a police scanner?

Some states where it is illegal to have a police scanner include Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, New York, and Minnesota. It is important to be aware of the laws regarding police scanners in your specific state.

Editor's Notes

During our frequency radio scanner research, we found 24 frequency radio scanner products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 112,194 customer reviews through our big data system to write the frequency radio scanners list. We found that most customers choose frequency radio scanners with an average price of $358.29.

The frequency radio scanners are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of frequency radio scanners, including Uniden, Discover It. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 6,197 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.