Throughout 2015, the market became increasingly flooded with a variety of handheld radio scanners, each promising superior functionalities and efficiency. This post reviews some of the most popular models that year, examining the functionality, range, clarity and overall performance.

Uniden BCD436HP: The Game Changer

The Uniden BCD436HP, often touted as one of 2015's best handheld radio scanners, arrived on the scene with an impressive range of digital technologies unusual for its price range. Its preprogrammed database covered the US and Canada, making this device the best for scanner enthusiasts moving across North America. Apart from its wide range, usability enhanced by clear menus and prompt responses made it a favorite among law enforcement and emergency professionals.

GRECOM PSR-800: Simplicity Meets Performance

For listeners who lean towards simplicity and ease of use, the GRECOM PSR-800 was a 2015 highlight. It had an object-oriented user interface and a whopping one-thousand memories. It could also pick up analog transmissions, an aspect that sets it apart from competitors. Still, this device had its share of navigation challenges. It also lacked the stamina of Uniden's battery, but for its simplicity, it was a fair balance.

Whistler WS1040: Customizable Excellence

The Whistler WS1040 handheld radio scanner, drawing attention with its sleek black exterior, made a powerful statement for durability and longevity. It broke away from the traditional handheld scanner design with a modern, minimalist appearance. With the ability to program up to 21 V-scanner folders, each capable of storing over 1,800 objects, the WS1040 delivered incredible scanning potential. Although programming it was a bit more complicated, users appreciated the potential for customization.

RadioShack PRO-18: Unparalleled Ease of Use

The RadioShack PRO-18, with the perfect balance between functionality and ease of use, became popular with those new to the scanning world. This device offered simple controls, making it easy to cycle through channels, adjust volume, and switch modes. However, the PRO-18’s simpler nature implied fewer features. For people seeking advanced scanning options or the ability to monitor encrypted transmissions, other choices were better.

Icom IC-R20: Versatility Encapsulated

The Icom IC-R20 was more expensive but was perhaps the most versatile handheld scanner of 2015. It picked up a wide array of frequencies and could simultaneously handle two frequencies. Its casing was more robust than most models, which, coupled with a dual-watch receiver, made it popular among emergency and outdoor enthusiasts.

In 2015, these were the major players in the handheld radio scanner market, each offering a unique blend of performance, price, and features. The scanner industry's evolution since then is intriguing, but these models still hold significance in the market today due to their remarkable performance during their prime.