
Radar and speed camera alerts are a helpful tool for many drivers to avoid fines and always drive attentively. These devices detect stationary and mobile speed cameras and warn drivers in good time. However, not every device delivers what it promises and there are legal aspects that need to be considered when using them. In this buying guide, we will introduce you to the best speed camera warning devices, explain what you should look out for when buying and explain the legal situation so that you are safe and informed on the road.
The best speed camera warning devices: our recommendations
Saphe Drive Mini
With the Saphe Drive Mini, you can drive more relaxed and safer. The compact traffic alarm warns you of speed cameras, accidents and dangers such as cars in the hard shoulder. Its sharp color screen only shows you warning symbols when it’s really important, so you can concentrate fully on the traffic. Thanks to the SmartAlarm function, you’ll only hear a beep when you’re going the speed limit – and the full alarm sound if you’re speeding.
How to avoid unnecessary distractions. The traffic alarm starts automatically when you set off, consumes hardly any power and works even when the smartphone screen is switched off – all you need is an active Bluetooth connection to the Saphe Link app.
Operation is super simple: with two buttons you can inform other riders about hazards. This community aspect works very well in practice. The battery lasts up to three months and charges fully in just eight hours. With real-time updates and support from the Blitzer.de app, you become part of one of the largest traffic communities in Europe.
OOONO CO-DRIVER NO2
The OOONO CO-DRIVER NO2 is an advanced traffic alarm that warns you of speed checks and danger spots in real time. With a database of over 100,000 registered cameras in more than 80 countries, it offers comprehensive protection against stationary and mobile speed cameras as well as section and traffic light controls. Thanks to the support of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you can use the OOONO app directly on your vehicle’s infotainment system.
The integrated navigation function displays warning messages on a map and provides information on speed limits and speeding. The CO-DRIVER NO2 has an LED light ring that displays warnings with subtle light signals, minimizing distractions while driving. A discard button allows you to remove outdated warnings, helping to improve the user experience.
With the rechargeable battery and USB-C port, you can conveniently charge the CO-DRIVER NO2 while riding. The magnetic holder makes it easy to attach in the vehicle and ensures easy handling. The CO-DRIVER NO2 starts automatically when you start driving, so you can leave your smartphone in your pocket. With millions of connected drivers, you get real-time traffic information and can report incidents at the touch of a button without being distracted by traffic.
Needit Drive One
With the Needit Drive One traffic alarm you are safer and more relaxed on the road. The compact device warns you in real time of speed checks, accidents and other dangers – whether mobile or stationary speed cameras, section controls or danger spots. You benefit from a strong community with over five million drivers in more than 90 countries.
Thanks to the cooperation with partners such as Blitzer.de, Trafik Alarm and SCDB.info, the warnings are always up-to-date and precise. It is very easy to use: at the touch of a button, you can inform other road users of dangers or confirm existing warnings.
The Drive One automatically connects to the corresponding app as soon as you set off – you can leave your smartphone in your pocket. And best of all: there are no hidden costs or subscriptions! The Drive One’s battery lasts for over two years, and practical accessories such as a ventilation slot holder allow you to mount the device flexibly in your vehicle.
OONO CO-DRIVER NO1
The OOONO CO-DRIVER NO1 is a device that provides real-time information on speed checks and road hazards. It provides warnings of stationary and mobile speed checks as well as various hazards such as roadworks, accidents or broken-down vehicles.
The data comes from a community of millions of drivers and is provided in real time. The device starts automatically at the beginning of the journey and does not require manual activation. It has no distracting screens and allows incidents to be reported at the touch of a button.
The connection to the smartphone is made once, after which the CO-DRIVER NO1 works independently. The LED displays provide information about various warnings and the connection status.
Saphe Drive Pro
The Saphe Drive Pro is a traffic warning device that provides real-time information on speed checks and danger spots. The device has a 1.54-inch color display that shows current speed limits, upcoming speed limits and your own speed.
It warns of stationary and mobile speed cameras as well as accidents and other hazards. The data comes from a community of over one million users and from partners such as Blitzer.de. The Saphe Drive Pro starts automatically when you start driving and connects to the Saphe Link app on your smartphone via Bluetooth.
It is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so that warnings can also be displayed on the vehicle’s infotainment system. A Saphe Premium subscription is required to use it, which costs €2.49 per month if paid annually or €2.99 if paid monthly.
Genevo One S
The GENEVO ONE S is a mobile radar detector that warns of various speed measurements and danger spots. Equipped with an HD radar antenna, it offers increased sensitivity and reduces false alarms.
The device has a matrix display for detailed information and an integrated GPS module with a European database that recognizes permanently installed measuring systems such as red light cameras and section controls. The firmware can be updated via the Internet and the menu navigation is available in several European languages.
The scope of delivery includes the radar detector, mounting accessories for the windshield, a power supply cable for the cigarette lighter, a USB cable for updates and a German operating manual.
Saphe One+
The Saphe One+ is a traffic warning device that alerts drivers to speed checks, accidents and other hazards. The device starts automatically when you start driving and connects to the Saphe Link app on your smartphone via Bluetooth.
Warnings are given by acoustic signals and LED displays. The data comes from a community of millions of users and is provided in real time. The Saphe One+ works throughout Europe and has a battery life of 2 to 3 years.
The best speed camera warning devices: What is allowed, what is forbidden?
Radar and speed camera detectors are popular tools used by many drivers to protect themselves from unpleasant surprises caused by speed checks. However, while the devices can be used legally in some countries, they are subject to strict legal regulations in Germany. Before deciding to buy or use such a device, you should therefore find out exactly what the applicable regulations are.
The best speed camera warning devices: Regulation in the StVO
The use of radar detectors and speed camera apps is not permitted on German roads. This is stated in Section 23 (1c) of the German Road Traffic Act (StVO). It states:
“Anyone driving a vehicle may not operate or carry ready for operation a technical device intended to display or interfere with traffic monitoring measures.”
This regulation explicitly refers to devices that warn of speed traps or other monitoring systems. This includes not only physical radar detectors, but also speed camera apps on smartphones or corresponding functions in navigation systems.
The best speed camera alerts: how they work
Radar and speed camera detectors work with different technologies to detect or warn of speed cameras:
- Radar-based warning devices: these devices scan the surrounding area for electromagnetic waves emitted by radar detectors. As soon as a corresponding signal is detected, a warning is sent to the driver.
- Laser warning devices: These devices detect laser beams from speed measurement systems. However, their functionality is limited, as modern laser measurements often only last a fraction of a second and it is difficult to issue a timely warning.
- GPS-based warning devices: These systems use a database with stored locations of fixed speed cameras and warn the driver as they approach. They are not based on active detection, but on existing information.
- Community-based systems: These are apps that use reports from other users to display current speed camera locations in real time. These are particularly integrated into navigation apps.
The best speed camera warning systems: the differences
There are various types of speed camera alerts and speed camera apps that differ in the way they work:
- Classic radar detectors: these devices continuously scan the surroundings for radar beams and signal the driver when a speed camera is nearby. This type of device is strictly prohibited in Germany.
- Laser jamming devices: These work by jamming the signals from laser measuring devices so that no correct speed measurement can be made. This technology is also illegal and can be punished with heavy fines.
- Speed camera apps and navigation systems with speed camera warnings: These use a database of known speed camera locations and warn drivers when they are approaching a known speed camera. These applications are also prohibited while driving.
- Community-based speed camera warnings: Some apps are based on reports from users who enter current speed camera locations into a database. Even if these appear harmless at first glance, they are considered speed camera warning systems and are therefore prohibited.
The best speed camera warning systems: What are the penalties for using them?
Anyone who uses a speed camera warning system or a corresponding app while driving must expect a fine of 75 euros and a point in Flensburg. In addition, police officers are entitled to confiscate and even destroy the device in question. In particularly serious cases, an even higher fine may be imposed.
It is particularly problematic if a radar detector is permanently integrated into the vehicle. If such a device is discovered, it can be removed and confiscated by the police. In this case, the vehicle owner not only has to expect a fine, but also the cost of removing the device.
The best speed camera warning devices: permitted alternatives
Although speed camera alarms and radar detectors are not permitted in Germany, there are some alternatives that can be used legally:
- Traffic reports on the radio: many radio stations provide information about current speed camera locations in their traffic news bulletins. This type of warning is completely legal, as it is not based on technical manipulation or special devices for detecting speed cameras.
- Manual warnings by other road users: Indicating speed cameras by means of light signals (for example by briefly flashing the headlights) is legally controversial, but is not usually punished in practice.
- Anticipatory driving and compliance with traffic regulations: The safest and best way to avoid risking a fine is still to adhere to the applicable speed limits.
The best speed camera warning devices: Legal situation in other countries
While the use of speed camera alerts is strictly prohibited in Germany, there are other European countries with different regulations. Here are a few examples:
- Switzerland: Here, both the possession and use of speed camera alerts are prohibited. Violations can result in heavy fines and confiscation of the device.
- Austria: Speed camera apps are not expressly prohibited, but their use can be seen as obstructing police work.
- France: Here, radar detectors and speed camera apps with real-time warnings are also illegal. Instead, there are legal systems that indicate “danger zones” where speed cameras may be located.
- Spain: Speed camera alerts are also illegal here, but navigation systems with fixed speed camera data are permitted.
As there are sometimes significant differences in the way authorities and the judiciary deal with speed camera alerts within the EU, this can often lead to great confusion among drivers. The ADAC has compiled a detailed list of the legal handling in the EU.
The best speed camera warning systems: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Are speed camera apps allowed on cell phones?
No, the use of speed camera apps is prohibited while driving. However, they may be used before driving to find out about potential danger spots.
Am I allowed to have a speed camera warning device without using it?
Yes, possession is not prohibited, but the device may not be carried in the vehicle ready for use.
What are the penalties for using a speed camera warning device?
Using a speed camera warning device or a speed camera app is punishable by a fine of 75 euros and one point in Flensburg. The police can also confiscate and destroy the device.
Can the police search me for a speed camera warning device?
Yes, the police may check the vehicle and mobile devices if there is a suspicion that a speed camera warning device is being used.
Conclusion
The use of speed camera alerts and speed camera apps can have considerable legal consequences in Germany. Anyone who uses such devices or applications while driving must expect a fine and points in Flensburg. The safest way to avoid problems is therefore to comply with traffic regulations and speed limits. However, if you don’t want to do without warning systems, you should rely on legal alternatives such as traffic reports on the radio. It is also worth finding out about the applicable regulations before driving abroad to avoid unpleasant surprises.