6 best amazon radio scanners

Amazon offers a selection of radio scanners, which are electronic devices used for monitoring and receiving radio communications across various frequency bands. These scanners are commonly used by hobbyists, radio enthusiasts, emergency responders, and security professionals. Here's what you should know about Amazon radio scanners:

  1. Frequency Range: Radio scanners typically cover a wide range of radio frequencies, including VHF (Very High Frequency), UHF (Ultra High Frequency), and sometimes other bands like HF (High Frequency) or digital modes like P25 or DMR. The specific frequency range and capabilities vary depending on the scanner model.

  2. Types of Scanners: Amazon provides different types of scanners, including handheld scanners, base/mobile scanners, and desktop scanners. Handheld scanners are portable and suitable for on-the-go monitoring, while base/mobile scanners are designed for fixed installations in vehicles or homes.

  3. Features: Radio scanners come with various features such as programmable memory channels, alpha-numeric display, squelch control, and scanning modes like scan lists and search. Some advanced models offer GPS integration, recording capabilities, and computer connectivity for data logging and control.

  4. Digital Modes: Many modern radio scanners support digital modes used by public safety agencies and other organizations, such as APCO P25, DMR (Digital Mobile Radio), NXDN, and more.It's important to ensure that the scanner you choose is compatible with the specific digital modes you want to monitor.

  5. Trunking Systems: Some scanners can track and decode trunking systems commonly used by public safety agencies, which allows you to monitor multiple talkgroups on a single frequency.

  6. Programming: Programming a scanner can involve manually entering frequencies or using computer software to program the scanner more efficiently. Some models come with pre-programmed databases for quick setup.

  7. Antennas: The performance of a radio scanner can be greatly influenced by the type and quality of the antenna used. Many scanner enthusiasts invest in high-quality external antennas to improve reception.

  8. Legal Considerations: It's essential to be aware of local regulations and laws regarding the use of radio scanners. In some areas, certain frequencies may be off-limits for civilian monitoring.

  9. Reviews and Ratings: Reading user reviews and checking product ratings on Amazon can help you choose a scanner that suits your specific needs and preferences.

Amazon offers a range of radio scanners from various manufacturers, including Uniden, Whistler, and RadioShack. When selecting a scanner, consider your monitoring goals, the frequency bands you want to cover, and any digital modes or trunking systems you need to monitor in your area.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best amazon radio scanners on the market
  

Uniden BCD436HP HomePatrol Series Digital Handheld Scanner & BC-SGPS, Universal Receiver Module Kit, Simple Solution to Connect GPS Enabled Scanner or CB Radio, (Replaces BC-GPSK)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Uniden BCD436HP HomePatrol Series Digital Handheld Scanner. TrunkTracker V, Simple Programming, S.A.M.E. Emergency/Weather Alert, Covers USA and Canada

"The BCD436HP is the first scanner to incorporate the HomePatrol-1's ease of use in a traditional handheld scanner. Plus, Uniden's exclusive Close Call RF Capture feature, GPS Connectivity, Extra-Large Display, Radio System Analysis and Discover Modes put the most advanced scanner features ever right in the palm of your hand. The LCD backlit keypad elluminates the keys and screen helps you make favorite lists quick and easy to setup. The department/site Quick Keys makes for a quick call or tagging the system/channel number. There are five different frequencies that are covered with the BCD436HP (25-512 MHz, 758-824 MHz, 849-869 MHz, 894-960 MHz, 1240-1300 MHz). Other features: TrunkTracker V, APCO 25 phase I and phase II, X2-TDMA, CTCSS/DCS rapid decoding, P25 NAC decoding and simple-to-use Sentinel PC software to keep your scanner's database and firmware up to date. Receives conventional and the following types of trunked channels: •Motorola Type I •Motorola Type II •Motorola Type IIi Hybrid •Motorola Type II Smartnet •Motorola Type II Smartzone •Motorola Type II Smartzone Omnilink •Motorola Type II VOC •LTR Standard •Project 25 Standard •Motorola X2-TDMA •P25 Phase I and Phase II •EDACS Standard (Wide) •EDACS Narrowband (Narrow) •EDACS Networked (Wide/Narrow) •EDACS ESK On the following frequencies: (25-512 MHz) (758-960 MHz) (excluding cellular telephone bands) (1.24 – 1.3 GHz) ". Favorites List, System, and Department/Site Quick Keys. Range control – lets you set how far out from your current location the scanner will search for channels in favorites lists and the database.



Uniden BC-SGPS, Universal Receiver Module Kit, Simple Solution to Connect GPS Enabled Scanner or CB Radio, (Replaces BC-GPSK)

Provides GPS location data for Uniden Scanners and CB Radios, including BCD436HP, BCD536HP, HomePatrol-1, HomePatrol-2, SDS100, SDS200, BCD996T / BCD996XT / BCD996P2, BCT15 / BCT15X, BC346XT, BCD325P2, BCD396T / BCD396XT, and Bear Tracker 885 CB Radio.

  • Product 1: The BCD436HP is the first scanner to incorporate the HomePatrol-1 ease of use in a traditional handheld scanner. Plus, Uniden's exclusive Close Call RF Capture feature, GPS Connectivity, Extra-Large Display, Radio System Analysis and Discover Modes put the most advanced scanner features ever right in the palm of your hand.
  • Product 1: Simple to operate, no programming needed. Simply turn it on, enter your zip code, and TrunkTracker V does the rest.
  • Product 1: This user-friendly digital scanner will immediately begin receiving communications used by Public Safety, Police, Fire, EMS, Ambulance, Aircraft, Military, Weather, and more.Scan Speed - 85 channels per second
  • Product 1: This functionality is made possible by combining the rich radio system database from Radio Reference with Uniden's patented radio system selection methods to correctly identify and monitor only nearby systems in the USA/Canada.
  • Product 2: Provides GPS location data for Uniden Scanners and CB Radios, including BCD436HP, BCD536HP, HomePatrol-1, HomePatrol-2, SDS100, SDS200, BCD996T / BCD996XT / BCD996P2, BCT15 / BCT15X, BC346XT, BCD325P2, BCD396T / BCD396XT, and Bear Tracker 885 CB Radio.
  • Product 2: The included cables allow for easy connection.
  • Product 2: Universal Serial GPS Receiver.
  • Product 2: Use for Automatic Packet Reporting System (APRS).

User questions & answers

Question: Does it come with battery and charger
Answer: Yes we carry all the replacement parts for this tool...However we do not offer through Amazon.You may contact us for part # and pricing
Question: Does it come with softwre
Answer: This has been the best crimper I’ve owned. I use it up to 20 ga with zero issues. I’ve had it for some time and it’s still in extremely good condition. All I’ve used it for is ductwork so I can tell you it’ll do great for you.

Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock with Snooze, Sleep, and FM Radio with Weather Alert, Search Bands Commonly used for Police, Fire/EMS, Aircraft, Radio, and Marine Transmissions

Uniden

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The BC365CRS is a multi-featured conventional channel scanner. Easily enter and store frequencies for police, fire/emergency, marine, air and more into 500 channels over ten banks. The scanner also features AM/FM clock radio with snooze and NOAA weather broadcasts. Receives conventional channels on the following frequencies: AM Broadcast (530-1700 KHz) (25-54 MHz) FM Broadcast (88-108 MHz) (108-174 MHz) (225-380 MHz) (406-512 MHz). In scanner mode press to start a limit search or to resume searching. In service select mode press to select police service. In fm mode, press to select the fm1 from memory bank. Note-if scanner receives interference or electrical noise move the scanner or its antenna away from the source. Recommend changing the height or angle of the antennas. Avoid placing the scanner in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents

  • Includes 500 channels in 10 Banks for scanning local public safety and other interesting frequencies.
  • Easily search bands commonly used for Police, Fire/EMS, Aircraft, Amateur Radio, and Marine transmissions.
  • Built-in FM radio with 30 FM presets, lets you listen to your local radio stations.
  • Built in Alarm Clock lets you wake to your favorite FM station, a weather channel, or scanning. Also has Snooze and Sleep.
  • Weather Scan with Alert, listen to local weather conditions and be alerted when hazardous conditions arise.
  • Large clear LCD backlit display is easy to read at night.
  • The buttons are nicely laid out for ease of use, so there's no fumbling around in the dark.

User questions & answers

Question: does it work good indoors a with a metal roof
Answer: You can use any rechargeable AA batteries for this radio. They can be purchased at Amazon or any place else that sell batteries. But there two things you need to know, one these batteries are not cheap. The other is you need to have the power cord to charge the batteries with. If you do not have this cord bring it to radio shack they will have it. Good luck with the radio.
Question: I cannot program bc365crs. where can i get help
Answer: No, solo sirve como receptor.
Question: what powers this item
Answer: This is an analog only unit.
Question: is it programmed? or do you have set it up yourself
Answer: This is an analog only unit. If you're looking for a digital handheld, I would recommend BCD325P2, BCD436HP, SDS100 and Homepatrol 2 units.

Product features

BC365CRS Alarm Clock Radio Scanner

The Uniden BC365CRS includes 500 channels for scanning local public safety and other interesting frequencies. The built-in FM radio lets you listen to your local radio stations, while the built in alarm clock lets you wake to your favorite channels.

500 Channels in 10 Banks

Gives you plenty of room to store frequencies for weather spotters, local businesses, emergency services, and more.

FM Broadcast Stations

Save up to 30 FM stations in preset memories so you can instantly tune to your favorite local broadcast.

Attractive Design is Ideal for Home Use

This all-in-one scanner features a fresh design that's attractive on your desktop and easy to read at night through its clear LCD backlit display. The buttons are nicely laid out for ease of use, so there's no fumbling around in the dark.

Motorola MC9190-G Wireless Handheld Terminal - 2D/1D Barcode Scanner, Windows Embedded 6.5, Wifi, Bluetooth, MC9190-G30SWEQA6WR (Renewed)

Symbol

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Motorola MC9190 Mobile Computer Wireless Handheld, 2D/1D Barcode Scanner SE4500 Standard Range, 53 Key Alpha Numeric Keyboard, Wlan 802.11a/b/g, Bluetooth, Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5, 806mHz, MC9190-G30SWEQA6WR. Chargers Sold Separately.

  • Motorola MC9190-G Rugged Mobile Computer
  • 2D/1D Barcode Scanner - Standard Range
  • Windows Embedded Handheld 6.5
  • Wireless LAN 802.11a/b/g || 53-Key Alpha Numeric Keyboard
  • Chargers Sold Separately

User questions & answers

Question: I work for a major retailer, will this work with their system
Answer: Yes that is correct, as far as I know. I'm a 25 year industrial electrician, and I've always used it for non insulated lugs. I don't think I've seen an insulated lug for the size of these lugs. Usually after crimping they are taped

Whistler TRX-1 Handheld Digital Scanner Radio

Whistler

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Whistler TRX-1 Handheld Digital Scanner Radio. Frequency coverage (MHz) -25-54, 108-174, 216-512, 764-960(minus cellular phone ranges), 1240-1300

  • Simple Zip Code programming. Preloaded USA/Canada MicroSD card included. Easy updating via Internet. User upgradable CPU firmware. Spectrum Sweeper. Clock / Calendar.
  • APCO P25 Digital Phase I & II.SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Only for use on Windows Operating Systems. CTCSS and DCS subaudible decoder. Dedicated SKYWARN/Weather button.
  • Dedicated SKYWARN/Weather button. IF Discriminator Out. Tuning Steps: 2.5, 3.125, 5, 6.25, 7.5, 8.33, 10, 12.5 ad 25 kHz. Record up to 50 hours of audio on the 2 GB microSDr. Date and time stamp recorded audio files
  • The scanner does not function.Ensure that the scanner is equipped with fresh batteries. If powering the scanner from external power, make certain that the USB power plug is fully inserted into the scanners USB jack. Weak signals from distant stations. Reposition for best reception. 2-Way radio reception is line-of-sight. Consider an outdoor antenna; the first 30 feet of elevation makes the most difference. Attenuator in use on weak signals. Check performance with and without attenuator activated,use setting with best reception.
  • Strong signal overload from nearby transmitter.Check performance with and without attenuator activated, use setting with best reception. Loose or defective antenna. Inspect antenna and connectors and correct any problems found.Incorrect modulation mode selected. Ensure that proper modulation mode is selected for the type of system being monitored. If necessary, use the PC Application to change modulation mode.

User questions & answers

Question: does this pick up analog signals as well
Answer: doitpickeupfrominguilfordfiretuck460,612500
Question: what type of batteries does this scanner have? Does it come with a wall charger
Answer: It uses AA type batteries. Either NIMH rechargeables or akaline. And yes it does come with a 120V to 9v wall charger. Not a 12V to 9V charger.
Question: It says in specs it picks up phase i and phase ii. why does everyone say it does not pick up phase ii
Answer: Not sure, the TRX-1 definitely does both Phase-1 & 2
Question: how many channels or banks does this have
Answer: I am confused as to why John L answered that this scanner does not pick up P25 phase II TDMA, when it does. The information below is directly from the box of this scanner. The Whistler TRX-1 is multi-system adaptive digital trunking scanners with Motorola P25 Phase I, X2-TDMA, Phase II and DMR making it capable of monitoring the following unencrypted channels/systems: Conventional DMR (Entered as a DMR trunked system, Hytera XPT, MotoTRBO Capacity Plus, MotoTRBO Connect Plus, and MotoTRBO Linked Cap Plus systems.

Product features

TRX-1 Digital Scanner Radio - Handheld

The Whistler TRX-1 is multi-system adaptive digital trunking scanners with Motorola P25 Phase I, X2-TDMA, Phase II and DMR making it capable of monitoring the following unencrypted channels/systems: Conventional DMR (Entered as a DMR trunked system, Hytera XPT, MotoTRBO Capacity Plus, MotoTRBO Connect Plus, and MotoTRBO Linked Cap Plus systems.

What is Object Oriented Scanning? Programming scanning receivers can be challenging, but object-oriented programming simplifies the process by using common conventions for scanning concepts that have common characteristics. A Scannable Object is any defined item that can be scanned or monitored, including:

Now capable of monitoring NXDN.

Uniden BCD996P2 Digital Mobile TrunkTracker V Scanner, 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels, Close Call RF Capture Technology, 4-Line Alpha display, Base/Mobile Design, Phase 2, Location-Based Scanning

Uniden

Based on 700 reviews Check latest price

Product description

You can use the BCD325P2 to monitor police and fire departments (including rescue and paramedics), NOAA weather transmissions, business/industrial radio, utilities, marine and amateur (ham radio) bands, and air band transmissions. Features 25,000 dynamic channels.

  • Uniden's BCD996P2 Digital Base/Mobile Scanner is a full-featured design with the serious hobbyist in mind. With an advanced digital decoding system and large memory bank, the Bearcat BCD996P2 scanner is an extremely powerful and useful Public Safety scanner.
  • The BCD996P2 comes equipped with Uniden exclusive features like Advanced Dynamic Memory System, Close Call RF Capture Technology, and GPS compatibility. It includes support for digital systems, including the latest APCO Project 25 Phase II systems.
  • Stay safe and informed with state of the art NOAA weather access and S.A.M.E. weather alerts that warn you of severe conditions in your area.
  • This mobile scanner radio offers 25,000 channels an advanced dynamic memory system, TrunkTracker V technology, and more. Enjoy location-based scanning and location alerts by connecting the BCD996P2 to an optional GPS receiver so you can stay informed when you’re on the go.
  • Included in the Box: BCD996P2 Scanner, AC Power Adapter, Vehicle Accessory Power Cord, Three-Wire Harness, Mounting Bracket and Hardware, Antenna, Owner’s Manual, APP Form, FREQ Form, other printed materials, and USB Cable.
  • NOTE:Kindly refer to the user manual provided as a PDF manual in the product description section
  • DCS/CTCSS Rapid Decode - Instantly Detects and Displays the Sub-audible Tone So You Can Quickly Determine the System Settings.
  • S.A.M.E. Weather Alert - Specific Area Message Encoding - During a NOAA Weather or Emergency Alert, a code for your specific location will alert you to severe conditions in your immediate area.

User questions & answers

Question: will it pickup viper
Answer: Yes, This Radio will receive unencrypted calls from the NC Viper system.
Question: Will this work with the new Des Moines Ia sytem
Answer: Not well. Des Moines is on the Iowa Statewide Interoperable Communications System (ISICS) which uses many simulcast sites. If you’re in range of two towers broadcasting the same frequency you will have issues. The SDS100 and 200 are the only current Uniden scanners to handle simulcast well.
Question: Is this model preprogamed
Answer: This uniden BCD996P2 Digital scanner is not preprogrammed, you have to program it your self, Note: it takes a little while to program ,but it can be done, I would recommend theses scanners that are already preprogrammed simply by entering your zip code and they are the Whistler WS1095 digital scanner - Uniden Home Patrol 2 scanner and the Uniden BCD 536HP. I Hope you find this answer helpful. Copsfan
Question: Can this 996P2 radio use the Uniden BC-GPSK Serial GPS Receiver for Scanner and Marine Products to get GPS input
Answer: I have the 996P2 with this GPS set but what is missing with Uniden is a Bios update as on MENU look into the GPS and on the current BIOS there is NO RANGE. I live in Raynham,Bristol, Massachusetts and why do I get , in my car a frequency of a city over 20 miles . I want to set the GPS only to 5 miles. You have to pressure Paul from Uniden to update the Bios that you may see in looking for Bios for the 996P2

Product features

BCD325P2 Digital Mobile TrunkTracker V Scanner

The BCD325P2 comes equipped with Uniden exclusive features like Advanced Dynamic Memory System, Close Call RF Capture Technology, and GPS compatibility. It includes support for digital systems, including the latest APCO Project 25 Phase II systems.

TrunkTracker V

Follows communications on APCO 25 Phase 1, Phase 2, X2-TDMA, Motorola, EDACS and LTR trunked systems.

25000 Dynamically Allocated Channels

Room for all your local systems and more.

Continuous Band Coverage

25MHz to 1.3GHz Excluding UHF TV and Cellular.

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.

Uniden

Based on 367 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The BCD325P2 comes equipped with Uniden exclusive features like Advanced Dynamic Memory System, Close Call RF Capture Technology, and GPS compatibility. It also includes support for the latest APCO Project 25 Phase II systems.

  • The BCD325P2 comes equipped with Uniden exclusive features like Advanced Dynamic Memory System, Close Call RF Capture Technology, and GPS compatibility. It also includes support for the latest APCO Project 25 Phase II systems.
  • Scan and search 25,000 channels. With Close Call RF capture technology, this scanner will automatically tune to the signals nearest you, so you can keep track of what's going on in your area.
  • Quick-Key System Access (100 Keys), allows you to quickly access the systems you us the most often. Uniden Police Scanners feature simple to set up keys to the systems you want to hear. Press them to enable or disable the system.
  • GPS Location-Based Scanning, connect this scanner to an optional GPS receiver and it will automatically select programmed systems based on your exact location. You'll save time by scanning only the local signals.
  • S.A.M.E. Weather Alert, supports Specific Area Message Encoding weather alerts. During a NOAA Weather or Emergency Alert, a code for your specific location will alert you to severe conditions in your immediate area.
  • DCS/CTCSS Rapid Decode - Instantly Detects and Displays the Sub audible Tone So You Can Quickly Determine the System Settings.
  • System / Channel Number Tagging - provides rapid access to a specific system or channel

User questions & answers

Question: Can you use this if your department doesn’t use trunking
Answer: yes you can use this uniden BCD325P2 scanner if your department does does not do trunking it will be analog.
Question: Where does the gps cable plug into the bcd
Answer: in the USB-Mini B port with a proper adapter cable from your Serial Uniden GPS PUCK
Question: Can you use Nickel-zinc based rechargeable batteries in the 325P
Answer: We recommend only using Ni-MH batteries or Alkaline batteries. The product manual from Uniden lists these 2 batteries as the power requirements. Hope this helps!
Question: Does this radio work with Kenwood Nexedge digital
Answer: No, it will not. The only digital it will receive is unencrypted P25 phase I and unencrypted P25 Phase II.

Product features

BCD325P2 Handheld TrunkTracker V scanner

The BCD325P2 comes equipped with Uniden exclusive features like Advanced Dynamic Memory System, Close Call RF Capture Technology, and GPS compatibility. It also includes support for the latest APCO Project 25 Phase II systems.

TrunkTracker V

Follows communications on APCO 25 Phase 1, Phase 2, X2-TDMA, Motorola, EDACS and LTR trunked systems.

25000 Dynamically Allocated Channels

Room for all your local systems and more.

Close Call RF Capture Technology

Instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters.

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