Bug detectors are pocket-sized devices that help you track down any type of device that transmits radio signals. They help to find spy equipment like spy cameras, recording devices, WiFi bugs, and other devices that are placed in secrecy. There are many types of bug detectors available today with lots of measurements and different features, so choosing one can be a little hard. To not further waste your time, here’s a list of the topics we are going to cover today:
1. The top 7 best bug detectors
2. Extensive reviews
3. Detailed buyer’s guide
After reviewing lots of different bug detectors, we can confidently say that the STS Wireless Signal Detector was found to be the best overall due to it’s combined functionalities and price.
Quick Navigation
Quick Summary: Top 7 - Best Bug Detectors
“Great frequency range, simple to use, wallet friendly.”
“Great build quality with a modern design, pocket-sized, and lightweight.”
“Equipped with various features, great build quality and, a big battery.”
“Features all in one display, big frequency range and, durable build quality.”
“Offers premium quality detection while undercutting its competitors in price.”
“Capable of detecting devices on 40 feet distance, easy to use with a replaceable battery ”
“Up to 12GHz detection range, bulky design with great features.”
Best Overall
The bug detector feels great hands-on. The body is built with aluminum alloy, which is wrapped around with patterned black plastic. STS have done a great keeping bug detector lightweight even when using very dense materials. The whole unit weighs only 160grams. On the front, you can find the 9 level LED signal Indicator and the on/off button. On top of the unit, there’s the antenna, a charging port and what’s interesting about this particular model is the sensitivity adjuster which works by turning.
Housed inside the body is a decent 800mAH lithium-polymer battery that can last anywhere between 10 to 15 hours depending on the use. As you can see, simplicity is what this bug detector represents. Although you can get a bug detector that is capable of more things than this one, we felt that the simplicity of this unit combined with the price makes this bug detector deserving to be on the top.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Runner Up
The trend of excellent build quality from STS can be also found in this bug detector. The unit seems modern and very compact. Right in the center of the unit you can find the LED signal indicator. As you come closer to the signal source the LEDs will start lighting up and the device will start beeping. If you want to stay discreet about what you are doing, there’s an option to turn the bug detector on buzzer mode, and instead of beeping the unit will vibrate.
Using this bug detector is not that complicated since every button is labeled with its function. All you have to do is extend the retractable steel rod antenna, power on the unit, choose a mode and you are ready to go.
Coming back to the design, this bug detector is the smallest of the models we have on our list. Coming in at approximately 6.5 x 4.8 x 1.5cm and just 86 grams, it’s the perfect addition to accompany you when going on vacations. Inside there’s a built-in 400mA battery that gives you just over 5 hours of use when fully charged.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Also Good
Although this particular bug detector doesn’t have a modern feel to it, it has a rugged, durable build. The shell is built out of aluminum alloy with the texture of sandpaper making it very easy to grip and hold in hands. Inside the 102mm x 52.5mm x 21.5mm body, you will find an 800mAH Lithium Polymer Battery that can withstand up to 15 hours of use when fully charged.
What separates this bug detector from the rest is the unique features it possesses. Starting off with the Laser Scanning feature that scans wireless cameras very quickly, the Magnetic field signal detection which helps when looking for bugs like GPS locators, and lastly the RF wireless signal detector which works only when the antenna is extended and it helps to detect wireless cameras or a GSM eavesdropping devices.
With the overwhelming modes and features, you might think that it’s complicated to use. While it can be tricky, everything on the unit itself is labeled. If you have further trouble understanding how to use it, you can find the user manual included in the package.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Best Features
The design of this bug detector is remarkable and very unique. Most bug detectors don’t feature a display that lets you keep track of measurements on all sensors simultaneously. Besides the display, there are 4 tactile buttons for powering on/off and navigating through different modes and features.
Although this might be overkill for the average user, at least you can be assured there won’t be any secret spy gadgets left behind with this powerful bug detector.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Best Budget
What’s great about this device is the fact that there are only two buttons you need to get accustomed to. You get visually and audibly alerted when the bug detector senses a frequency source. On top of the unit, you will find the power adapter, detachable antenna, sensitivity adjuster. It weighs 12.8 ounces and it’s a little heftier than most bug detectors, but its weight contributes to the overall feel in the hand.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Best Value for Money
The device seems and feels modern. With all the labels on the front, you might get the impression that it’s a complicated bug detector to use. But all you need is one finger to switch the device on, and everything is ready to go. It’s a bit pricier than the models on our list, but if safety is your number one priority you won’t be disappointed by the capabilities from this bug detector.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Best Frequency Range
The overall build quality is excellent. The casing is built out of duralumin which gives some weight to the unit itself. Housed inside the casing is a big 1500mA Lithium Polymer battery providing 20-45 continuous working hours. It weighs around 175 grams and its size is just 125 x 52.5 x 21.5mm, making it perfect to bring it with you wherever you travel.
Besides the detector, inside the package, you will also find a detachable RF antenna, a magnetic detecting probe, a camera lens finder, a USB charger & cable, and a user manual.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE