Home > Consumer Reviews > Cobra XRS-9700 11-Band Radar/Laser Detector with Intellishield and Voice Alert

For the top of the line Cobra Model, I was definitely disappointed with the 9700. It's Compass comes in handy and the intellimute works well to kill off unwanted beeps and voice alerts from garage openers and car keys. However, as a radar detector, it is only mediocre at best. Unlike other reviews, my experience with this device has been somewhat positive. It DOES pick up signals but perhaps too late. POP (instant on radar) alerts are picked up only when your car gets hit by one, and by that time your speed has already been clocked so what's the point? Normal, always on radar such as K and X bands get picked up AT MOST 1/2 mile away. Most of the time though it ends up being 1/4 mile maybe less. It has saved me a couple times but I wouldn't buy this device again if i had the chance.

Please dont buy it. I bought this one around a year ago. I live in upstate NY and unlike the metro cities cops and state trooper are rampant in my area. Now, this thing is suppose to detect cops earlier,right? wrong! it would beep 'occassionaly' and only when i can practically see the state trooper myself! so whats the point? actually there is no point (of buying it). Funny thing is now i drive at the speed limit (with the radar detector on). I am looking for a new radar detector now.

Purchased this item for my husband and I must tell you, very good investment for the money. Product easy to install, easy to program as it has direction on it (N, S, W, E). Very easy to understand, clear voice alerts and special alerts for different kinds of bands.

I was not impressed with the Cobra. But yes it could save you some bucks, a court session, a lost licence, higher insurance. But don't rely on it and get silly thinking it will warn you. It can give you a few extra seconds. Best is to look at som eof the websites the test them like http://www.radarbusters.com/.

Or maybe ... drive a bit slower?

Item works well, it does not go off "all the time" as stated in other reviews. So far it has performed as well as expected. It is a piece of electronic equipment trying to detect other electronics, both moving at rapid rates of speed so it is not infallible.