Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector Review

Talk about a blast from the past! The Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector is one of the first models in the Whistler XTR range, and as such, a number of modern features are missing from the device. Ku band, for example, is nowhere to be found.

However, once you compare the features with the price, the cynicism begins to subside, and the abilities of this machine become clearer. Hence, in the interests of transparency and honesty, we set out to review the XTR-265 (even though we have done so before) - to see exactly where it stands against the competition today.

Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector Specifications & Features

Band Detection
The Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector is not totally obsolete. The machine still provides the ability to detect superwide Ka bands, and also emits the VG-2 protection signal around your vehicle to hide the presence of a radar detector.

Additionally, Whistler's patented POP mode technology is present in this model - providing superior detection of instant-on radars and POP bands (the bane of modern day driving).

Display & Layout
This is the area where the Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector is clearly lacking. Being one of the first models in the XTR range, the design and layout is old, cluttered, and not the prettiest. The user screen is static, small, and at time, difficult to see.

It would be fair to say however, that for $50 (the approximate retail price of the machine) - elegant looks shouldn't be expected in the first place. Hence, if you are willing to forgive Whistler for their oversight in this area (not that it was an oversight at the time of design / planning) - this machine will probably be the right fit for you.

Unique Technology
There's more on board here than you might imagine at first. The 360 detector eye is mounted on top of the unit, and is able to detect bands from all around the vehicle.

A vehicle battery saver is also installed - which shuts the device down after 3 hours of "idle" processing - to conserve vehicle battery life. If you're like us, this is an invaluable addition, because we often forget to turn our radar detector off when exiting the vehicle!

Performance & Range
The performance of the Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector is "on par with what you would expect" - as said by one of our office workers. The device will save you from a speeding ticket if the law enforcement officer is using Ka band or POP radar, however don't expect a massive "alert time" or a generous advance warning of signals. The technology for that is just simply not there.

Our Rating of the Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector
The Whistler XTR-265 Laser / Radar Detector gets 4 stars from us. It would get less, if the price was higher. But because this is clearly a product which is targeted at the driver on a budget, we are willing to forgive Whistler for its oversights (such as not including Ku band and that horrendous design theme), and would recommend the device to anyone wanting an entry level radar detector.

Related radar detector reviews:

1. Whistler XTR-330 Laser / Radar Detector Review