The Cobra RAD 480i is one of the best innovations in the category in the recent years. Continuous innovation is not surprising because the world of electronics should never stop discovering, creating, and improving its devices.
Cedar Electronics knows this so releasing the best radar detector in their series is a bold yet smart move. This review will help you identify if the reliability and functionality of the Cobra RAD 480i would meet your needs and exceed your expectations. A little preview of its drawbacks is included so you can make the necessary compromise should you feel this is the radar detector for you.
Powerful features
The RAD 480i of Cobra is a promising device packed with plenty of powerful features. For starters, its detection range is twice stronger compared to its predecessor. With its lightning-quick long-range protection, you can be alerted of any potential threats even they’re far away. You can make speed adjustments accordingly with lots of time to spare. Working with its enhanced detection range is its laser eye technology so the Cobra RAD 480i is well capable of detecting signals from both the rear and front of the car offering you full protection from road threats.
Adding into its list of powerful features is its upgraded IVT filtering for lesser false alerts. There is nothing more stressful than those false alerts but you must understand that radar just doesn’t come from police radar guns but all cars within your perimeter. To improve notifications and make it more reliable, the RAD 480i has this anti-false circuitry system that filters out false alerts from some blind-spot monitoring systems. Once you receive an alert, you would know that the chances of a police car within the perimeter are extremely high.
For a more seamless experience when it comes to alerts, this Cobra series also comes with an entirely modifiable sensitivity configuration. You can tweak the sensitivity level including the filtering modes depending on your current location and roads you are traversing so you have a level of control over the number of notifications and alerts that you receive. Imagine being in a city where most likely you’ll be receiving multiple alerts in under 60 seconds.
Another powerful feature incorporated in the RAD 480i is a Digital Signal Processing (DSP). Most radar detectors come in pre-configured with this so it’s no surprise that Cobra won’t include it to this series. The DSP will provide you will early warnings should there be any threats detected around you. In this case, you will have an early heads-up if the traffic patrol or police are targeting an area that you’d likely pass through and you can adjust accordingly.
Lastly, would be the RAD 480i being Bluetooth capable. Yes, you are not only protected from the laser and radar signals but you also get real-time warnings related to traffic, cameras, road hazards, speed limits, and boundless access to all road-related news and threats.
Things to Know
Yes, it is already an upgraded version but that doesn’t mean that it is already a perfect radar detector gadget. There is still room for improvement so we might anticipate another improved version soon. Bluetooth connection is a great start but the RAD 480i still doesn’t have any WIFI connection which should come in handy since everything is now connected to the internet. The information would be more real-time if partnered with the ever-powerful internet. Additionally, although the buttons and easy to use interface is a huge development, there are no directional arrows incorporated to make overall ease of use 100% user-friendly.
Best Comparison
Cobra’s RAD 480i gives you that all-in-one radar detecting tool but that this is not the only option that is available for you. It is best to shop a little and get to know other brands that may be a better option for you.
Consider looking into the Escort MAX360C Laser Radar. If you are specifically looking for those directional arrows and WIFI connectivity that the RAD 480i is missing, then Escort’s have that and even more. This model is GPS equipped and allows you to know the police whereabouts from the rear, side, and front that’s why it is called 360.
Another good reason why this is also a good buy is that it is also a connected detector, you can also know what other Escort users are seeing ahead. Alerts and real-time info can be shared by fellow drivers making your information more reliable.
The Escort MAX360 Laser Radar also shares most of Cobra’s RAD 480i’s powerful features but be prepared because the more premium features it deals, the pricier it becomes.
The Price
This car must-have is not cheap but can be considered as a fair deal. It boasts more advanced premiums compared to other radar detectors and there is a price for every perk and edge over other brands. Knowing that it is from Cobra, you should expect nothing less.
Personal Opinion
Cobra’s breakthrough radar detector will give you that added confidence when you are on the road. It gives you the notification alerts you need promptly so you make speed adjustments as necessary.
Summary
With its trademark Cobra design, you won’t have any trouble with this radar detector because it is user-friendly and straightforward to use. Regardless if you are a newbie or a pro, figuring this device and using it effectively will be no problem at all. With its superb detection range, Bluetooth connectivity, and upgraded IVT filtering, this upgraded radar detector is sure a handy device in your car.
