Best Small Police Scanner

Peter | 17-01-2025

With so many Best Small Police Scanner brands on the market – from big names like Uniden to smaller companies – finding the right product can be a real challenge. But we’re here to make your search easier.

We carefully researched and tested a vast range of Best Small Police Scanner to help you discover the top contenders that match different needs and preferences. Altogether, we spent over 100 hours evaluating numerous products first-hand.

Our #1 best Best Small Police Scanner is Uniden Best Small Police Scanner, based on its stellar performance across all our tests. Below you’ll find more of our top-rated recommendations for great Best Small Police Scanner options currently available. Make sure to check out our buying guide too – it’s full of expert advice for choosing a Best Small Police Scanner tailored to exactly what you’re looking for. With our help guiding your decision, finding your perfect fit will be a breeze!

Editor's Choice
Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner, 300 Channels, 10 banks, Close Call Technology, PC
Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner, 300 Channels, 10 banks, Close Call Technology, PC
Premium Pick
Uniden BC355N 800 MHz 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call RF Capture, Pre-programmed Search
Uniden BC355N 800 MHz 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call RF Capture, Pre-programmed Search
Budget Pick
Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock with Snooze, Sleep, and FM Radio with Weather
Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock with Snooze, Sleep, and FM Radio with Weather

Top 10 Best Small Police Scanner

We researched and compared the top products in the Best Small Police Scanner category to provide you with these recommendations.

1. Uniden Bearcat BC125AT Handheld Scanner, 500-Alpha-Tagged Channels, Close Call Technology, PC

  • LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED, this sophisticated scanner has 500 alpha-tagged channels in a convenient compact design with loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission.
  • LISTEN TO OVER 40,000 FREQUENCIES, you can listen to both civilian and military bands, including Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.
  • SEARCH MORE EFFICIENTLY with 500 Alpha-Tagged Channels finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 500 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer. Alpha Tagging lets you assign names to your channels, so you can keep track of who you are listening to.
  • LIGHTWIEGHT PORTABLE DESIGN, take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features, the orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
  • GET STARTED LISTENING RIGHT AWAY with convenient Pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten separate Non -Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Ham, Marine, Railroad, Civil Air, Military Air, CB Radio, FRS/GMRS/MURS, and Racing search bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
  • EXCELLENT HAND-HELD SCANNER (Please note: model BC125AT is NOT suitable for Trunking or Digital Radio system monitoring, (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking systems. If you live in an area where Trunking or Digital Radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (D stands for Digital), such as models BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD996P2, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.
  • NOTE: The product does not have 2-way communication, is only a scanner for receiving radio transmissions
  • How can we help? Uniden Customer Support web site is designed to conveniently walk you through product setup and troubleshooting, Web site: https://uniden.com/pages/support-1 . Contact customer support at email: custsupport@uniden.com or phone: 1-800-297-1023.

2. Uniden BC365CRS 500 Channel Scanner and Alarm Clock with Snooze, Sleep, and FM Radio with Weather

  • LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED! The Uniden BC365CRS is an affordable 500 channel all-in-one conventional Analog Scanner, Alarm Clock, and FM Radio with loads of features in a convenient desktop design.
  • 500 CHANNELS: Get started listening right away with convenient pre-sets for the most popular searches, Non-Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Weather reports, Marine, Aircraft, Amateur Radio, Railroad, and other bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
  • BUILT-IN FM RADIO & ALARM CLOCK: Save up to 30 FM stations in preset memories so you can instantly tune to your favorite local broadcast. Alarm Clock with Snooze and Sleep - Set the BC365CRS to wake you to scanning, a weather channel, or your favorite FM station.
  • ATTRACTIVE DESIGN: 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.
  • PRIORITY with DO-NOT-DISTURB: Store your most important frequencies into priority channels. When scanning, these channels are checked every 2 seconds, so you are more likely to catch important activity on these channels.
  • CONVENTIONAL ANALOG SCANNER This scanner is NOT for receiving DIGITAL communications (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking communication systems. For Digital Scanners please look at other leading Uniden models.
  • How can we help? Uniden Customer Support web site is designed to conveniently walk you through product setup and troubleshooting, Web site: https://uniden.com/pages/support-1 . Contact customer support at email: custsupport@uniden.com or phone: 1-800-297-1023.

3. Uniden Bearcat BC75XLT Handheld Scanner, 300 Channels, 10 banks, Close Call Technology, PC

  • LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED, this sophisticated scanner has 300 user-programable channels in a convenient compact design with loads of features. Close Call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Do Not Disturb Mode prevents Close Call checks during a transmission.
  • LISTEN TO OVER 32,000 FREQUENCIES, you can listen to both civilian and military bands, including Non-Digital Police, Ambulance, Fire, NOAA Weather, Marine, Aircraft, Railroad, Civil Air, Amateur radio services, and Racing events.
  • SEARCH MORE EFFICIENTLY with 300 Channels finding the channel you want to listen to is easy, with 300 channels divided into 10 storage banks. Organize your channels by department, location, area of interest, or any other way you prefer.
  • LIGHTWIEGHT PORTABLE DESIGN, take this Bearcat handheld radio scanner with you on the road, or on outings. It packs plenty of features, the orange backlight display is easy to read, even in low light conditions.
  • GET STARTED LISTENING RIGHT AWAY with convenient Pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten separate Weather, Non -Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, Marine, Racing, Civil Air, HAM Radio, Railroad, CB radio, and Other.This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
  • EXCELLENT HAND-HELD SCANNER (Please note: model BC75XLT is NOT suitable for trunking or digital radio system monitoring, (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking systems. If you live in an area where Trunking or Digital radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (D stands for Digital), such as models BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD996P2, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.
  • The BC75XLT operates on two AA batteries, (batteries are not included). Use either two AA Alkaline or AA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries. Before purchasing, please confirm whether the communication you want to receive is Digital or Analog. This product does not have 2-way communication, it is only a scanner for receiving radio transmissions.
  • How can we help? Uniden Customer Support web site is designed to conveniently walk you through product setup and troubleshooting, Web site: https://uniden.com/pages/support-1 . Contact customer support at email: custsupport@uniden.com or phone: 1-800-297-1023
  • 300 Channels: You can program up to 300 channels into the scanner's memory, 30 channels in each of 10 banks. Then, you can scan for transmissions on the stored channels
  • Close Call RF Capture Technology: Close Call automatically detects and tunes to nearby transmissions, even if the frequency isn't programmed into a channel
  • Runs on 2 AA alkaline or Simple USB charging allows you to recharge your scanner's batteries from a computer, or adapters for many wireless telephones
  • Narrowband Compliant: Properly tunes to channels using the Narrowband modulation now required for business and public safety operation
  • Ten Preprogrammed Service Search Bands: Easily search for frequencies typically used by Police, Fire/Emergency, Marine, Racing, Civil Air, Ham Radio, Railroad, CB Radio, Weather, and more
  • Refer user manual below.

4. Uniden BC355N 800 MHz 300-Channel Base/Mobile Scanner, Close Call RF Capture, Pre-programmed Search

  • The Uniden Bearcat BC355N Mobile/Base Scanner is one of the most feature packed, user-friendly, entry level scanners available today. It can pick up analog receptions including 6 Service banks for monitoring Police, Fire, Emergency Medical Services, Marine, Air, Weather, and CB frequencies.
  • The BC355N features Close Call RF Capture Technology, which instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters. This pre-programmed search makes it easier to find active frequencies and helps you stay on top of local happenings and emergencies in your area. 100 ch/sec Scan Speed (max)
  • You can save up to 300 frequencies that are scanned along with the preset frequencies. So whenever you encounter a newly activated local frequency for any service category, you can add it to the bank for that category. This gives you quick access to the frequencies you want to hear.
  • The BC355N comes complete with a backlit display, making it easier to read in low light conditions, along with AC adapter, a DC power cable and an automotive power outlet plug, giving you more options for supplying power at home or in your car. Frequency range for aircraft band is AM mode 8.33 STEP (kHz) at 108.0000, 136.9916(Lower and Upper)
  • If youre looking for an affordable way to jump into the world of scanners, the BC355N may be the right choice for you. (Please note: model BC355N is not suitable for trunking or digital radio system monitoring. If you live in an area where trunking or digital radio systems are used, you need to upgrade to a Uniden Digital model (D stands for Digital), such as models BCD996P2, BCD436HP, BCD536HP, BCD325P2, or HomePatrol-2.

5. Uniden Bearcat SR30C, 500-Channel Compact Handheld Scanner, Close Call RF Capture, Turbo Search, PC

  • LISTEN IN AND STAY INFORMED! The Uniden Bearcat SR30C is a very affordable 500 channel hand-held scanner with loads of features in a convenient compact design.
  • LISTEN TO OVER 32,000 FREQUENCIES: Get started listening right away with convenient pre-sets for the most popular searches. Frequencies are preset in ten service banks, Non-Digital Police/Fire/Emergency, NOAA Weather reports, Marine, Racing, Civil Aircraft, Ham Radio, Railroad, CB Radio, and other bands. This makes it easy to find channels that interest you.
  • PC PROGRAMING lets you program your scanner using your PC. Close call RF capture technology instantly tunes to signals from nearby transmitters and the Priority Scan function Scans the channels you have designated as priority channels. Memory backup keeps the frequencies stored in memory for an extended time if the scanner loses power
  • DELAY FUNCTION helps prevent missed replies during two-way conversations. Other features include keypad entry, Earphone Jack, key lock, battery low alert, battery save. The triple-conversion design ensures excellent Performance.
  • THREE POWER OPTIONS: #1- The included USB cable will power your SR30C from your PC or other USB power source, such as a smart phone USB charger (not included). #2 - Two AA alkaline batteries (not included). #3 - Two AA rechargeable Ni-MH batteries (not included). You can also charge rechargeable Ni-MH batteries in the unit using the USB cable.
  • EXCELLENT ENTRY LEVEL PORTABLE SCANNER This scanner is NOT for receiving DIGITAL communications (e.g. Project 25, DMR, NXDN). Some Police/Fire/Emergency/Public Safety Agencies in larger cities are switching over to DIGITAL Trunking communication systems. For Digital Scanners please look at other leading Uniden models such as the BCD436HP.

6. Uniden BCD325P2 Handheld TrunkTracker V Scanner. 25,000 Dynamically Allocated Channels. Close Call

  • 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. Battery life depends on factors such as device usage, temperature, and battery capacity.
  • How can we help? Uniden Customer Support web site is designed to conveniently walk you through product setup and troubleshooting, Web site: https://uniden.com/pages/support-1 . Contact customer support at email: custsupport@uniden.com or phone: 1-800-297-1023.

7. Uniden BearTracker Scanner (BCT15X) with 9,000 Channels, TrunkTracker III Technology, Base/Mobile

  • Mobile BearTracker scanner with 9,000 Channels, advanced dynamic memory system, close call RF capture technology, and more. Compatible with BC-RH96 Remote Head
  • TrunkTracker III technology lets you can keep up with the action on Motorola, EDACS and LTR systems. Individual channel volume offset. Alpha Tagging
  • Location-Based scanning automatically selects programmed systems based on your location when connected to a compatible GPS receiver
  • State-by-state preprogrammed channels for local police, DOT, and Highway Patrol frequencies when you travel, without having to program
  • 100 system Quick Keys with 10-channel group Quick Keys per system; system/channel number tagging for rapid access.Continuous Band Coverage* - 25MHz to 1.3GHz Excluding UHF TV and Cellular
  • Before purchasing, please confirm whether the communication you want to receive is Digital or Analog. The BCT15X is Not a Digital scanner

8. Uniden Bearcat BCD160DN Handheld Digital Scanner, Exclusive Features, Band Scope Rapid

  • The Uniden BCD160DN sets the standard for performance, features, and innovation. Exclusive Features like Band Scope Rapid System/Channel Number Tagging, Narrow-band Reception, and a complete suite of search features help you detect those elusive signals faster than ever. Uniden Digital Scanners offer you more than ever before.
  • DCS/CTCSS RAPID DECODE - Instantly detects and displays the sub audible tone so you can quickly determine the system settings.
  • PRELOADED DMR/NXDN - The scanner comes preloaded with DMR and NXDN so you can start using your scanner as soon as you take it out of the box.
  • CUSTOM SEARCH - Allows you to start searching at the displayed frequency or enter a frequency and start searching.
  • PC PROGRAMMING - Use free Uniden software to manage your scanners Profiles, Favorites Lists, Databases, and firmware updates.

9. Uniden BCD436HP HomePatrol Series Digital Handheld Scanner. TrunkTracker V, Simple Programming,

  • 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.
  • Simple to operate, no programming needed. Simply turn it on, enter your zip code, and TrunkTracker V does the rest.
  • 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
  • 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.
  • Whether it is across town or across the street, the BCD436HP keeps you informed. Now with the largest display on the market and more advanced features, the BCD436HP makes a superior unit for the scanner enthusiast..Instant Replay Plays back up to 240 seconds (4 minutes) of the most recent transmissions..Custom Alerts You can program your scanner to alert when you receive, a Channel or Unit ID, a Close Call hit, an ID is transmitted with an Emergency Alert, or a Tone-out hit. For each alert in the scanner, you can select from 9 different tone patterns, 15 volume settings, 7 colors, and 3 flash patterns.
  • How can we help? Uniden Customer Support web site is designed to conveniently walk you through product setup and troubleshooting, Web site: https://uniden.com/pages/support-1 . Contact customer support at email: custsupport@uniden.com or phone: 1-800-297-1023.

10. Radtel RT-470X Multi-Band Ham Radio 256CH Aviation Air Band Radio NOAA Marine Walkie Talkies Long

  • [Easy to Use:] The radio boasts an intuitive design and a user-friendly interface, making it effortless to navigate and customize settings, even for beginners. Its large 1.77-inch LCD screen offers excellent resolution, ensuring clear visibility even on sunny days.
  • [Broad Frequency Coverage:] The RT-470X offers extensive frequency coverage, supporting 8 receiving bands (including FM/AM) and 3 transmitting bands. 144-148/420-450Mhz ham radio band transmitting and receiving, 18-76Mhz VHF Receiver(FM), 108-136Mhz AM Receive, 136-660Mhz UHF/VHF Receiver, 840-999Mhz UHF Receiver
  • [Flexible Programming Options:] The RT-470X features an internal programmable chip, compatible with traditional 2-pin interfaces and popular programming cables. Additionally, it supports CHIRP and CPS software programming, providing further flexibility and customization options.
  • [Wireless Frequency Copy:] This feature enables the radio to copy frequencies and CTCSS/DCS tones from other radios, allowing immediate communication without the need for programming. It's particularly convenient for communicating with non-LCD models, provided they are within a 1-meter distance.
  • [Dual PTT Button]: The RT-470X radio can be programmed for dual PTT transmission, where PTT1 transmits the UHF frequency in band 1, and PTT2 transmits the VHF frequency in band 2. This provides convenient operation without having to switch the main band.
  • [Innovative Features:] The radio boasts advanced functionalities, including 8-band receiving, one-key frequency matching, local repeater import, DTMF function, flashlight, frog end tone, and a customizable 1.77-inch TFT color screen. Additionally, it features an SOS emergency alarm and VOX hand-free operation for enhanced convenience and safety.
  • [Package Contents:]1x Radtel RT-470X Ham Radio,1x 2800mAh Type-C Battery, 1x 7.87-inch Dual Band 145/435 Antenna, 1x 39-inch USB-C Charger Cable, 1x Belt Clip with Metal Piece, 1x English User Manual,1x AC Power Adapter with USB Port (FCC ID: 2AZSA-RT470X)

Peter

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