The MAX 360c MKII succeeds the original MAX 360c radar detector, featuring a new dual-antenna platform for enhanced range detection. Upgraded digital signal processing reduces false alerts, and it’s compatible with Escort’s radar-mounted dash cameras and laser shifters. Additionally, the Drive Smarter app has seen significant improvements.
Pros:
Range Detection: Enhanced with a new dual-antenna platform.
False Alert Filtering: Improved digital signal processing reduces false alerts.
Drive Smarter App: Notable improvements for a better user experience.
Cons:
Price: Higher cost compared to some competitors.
Learning Curve: May be challenging for first-time users.
Wi-Fi Feature: Its usefulness depends on individual needs.
1. False Alert Filtering
While no radar detector can eliminate false alerts entirely, those that prioritize a quiet, distraction-free drive earn higher marks in our reviews. To test this, we drive through areas prone to non-police radar interference, such as shopping plazas and industrial zones with digital signage, which often trigger false K band alerts. The best detectors use advanced technology to minimize these unnecessary warnings.
2. Range Detection
For range testing, we take radar detectors through busy roads like Woodward Avenue, Telegraph Road, I-696, and M-10 during rush hour. In these conditions, early warning of police radar is critical, especially since many Michigan law enforcement vehicles, such as Ford Explorers and Chevy Tahoes, blend into traffic. We also refer to Vortex Radar’s comprehensive range tests for further insights.
3. Price & Value-Added Features
We evaluate whether the radar detector offers sufficient value for its price by comparing its feature set with the cost. Features such as Bluetooth connectivity, segmentation filters, and directional arrows can significantly enhance the user experience and justify higher prices.
4. Ease of Use
The ideal radar detector should offer a seamless experience for both first-time users and experienced owners. As the price and complexity of a unit increase, ease of use becomes even more essential to our evaluation process.
This comprehensive approach ensures that we provide readers with reliable insights to make informed purchasing decisions.
Escort MAX 360c MKII In-Depth: What It Offers
The MAX 360c MKII includes a 12V power cord with a USB port for phone charging, a suction cup windshield mount (“EZ Mag Mount”), a carrying case, and a quick start guide (the full manual can be downloaded from Escort’s website).The USB port on the power cord allows you to charge your phone even if your vehicle lacks a wireless charging pad.In addition to enhanced range detection and improved false alert filtering, here’s a summary of other key features of the MAX 360c MKII:
Band Detection: Supports X, K, Ka radar, lidar, MRCD, MRCT, and Mesta Fusion, providing comprehensive coverage against various enforcement technologies.
Sensitivity Modes: Offers four modes (Highway, Auto, Auto No X, Auto Lo K) to adjust radar sensitivity based on driving conditions.
Band Segmentation: Fine-tune response times with adjustable K and Ka Narrow segmentation options via settings or the Drive Smarter app.
AutoLearn Technology: Uses GPS to automatically lock out repeated false alerts, with manual lockout available via the Mute button on the power cord.
Mark Locations: The MRK button allows drivers to flag locations with potential threats, such as speed traps or red-light cameras.
With these features, the MAX 360c MKII delivers an intuitive, high-performance radar detection experience.
Drive Smarter App
Escort has significantly enhanced the Drive Smarter app for the MAX series of radar detectors. When connected, the app delivers real-time threat notifications, including radar sources, red-light cameras, speed cameras, and police patrols, reported by other Escort users (shared alerts).You can also contribute by issuing alerts through the app, notifying other drivers of speed traps or stationary patrol cars you encounter.
Beyond alerts, Drive Smarter allows you to customize various settings for the MAX 360c MKII directly from your phone. This includes adjusting display colors, brightness, sensitivity modes, and more, making it easier to tailor the detector to your preferences.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto & Mapbox
The updated Drive Smarter app is now compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrating seamlessly with your vehicle’s touchscreen. You’ll see real-time threat notifications alongside standard CarPlay or Android Auto features, enhancing situational awareness.
The app also includes Mapbox functionality, allowing Drive Smarter to double as a navigation tool.Although using Drive Smarter is optional— the MAX 360c MKII can detect radar independently—running the app can optimize your countermeasure setup by providing additional context and alerts. If your vehicle has a wireless charging pad, it’s recommended to use it to preserve your phone’s battery while the app is active.
Is The Escort MAX 360c MKII Worth It?
If you’re a radar detector enthusiast or simply a fan of Escort products, the MAX 360c MKII is a worthwhile investment. It offers a significant upgrade for those looking to move from an older radar detector, boasting enhanced features that won’t disappoint.Escort has also revamped the Drive Smarter app, addressing many connection and crashing issues from earlier versions. The app is now more user-friendly, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore the settings on the Escort MAX 360c MKII.
However, if you’re in the market for a reliable radar detector without needing all the extra features, you might consider more straightforward options like the Uniden R4, Radenso DS1, or Cobra RAD 700i. I personally own all three, and they effectively meet my needs. For quick trips around Detroit, I often reach for one of those units.If you decide to purchase a new MAX 360c MKII and have questions, feel free to join us on the forum, where we can guide you in the right direction.
Escort MAX 360c MKII & MAX 360c Differences
At first glance, the MAX 360c and MAX 360c MKII appear nearly identical, with the only noticeable difference being the darker gray hue of the MKII.The most immediate distinction you may notice is the price difference: approximately $50, not including any ongoing sales or promotions. The original MAX 360c typically retails for $650, while the MKII is priced at $700. Here’s what you get for that additional $50.
More Muscle
The original MAX 360c weighs 9.87 ounces (just under 280 grams), while the MKII comes in at 10.05 ounces (around 285 grams). Even this simple home test suggests the MKII contains more internal circuitry.
Better False Alert Filtering
The Escort MAX 360c MKII features a new Blackfin DSP (digital signal processing) chip, which enhances false alert filtering. Developed by Analog Devices, the Blackfin is a family of embedded microprocessors designed for various applications.For the MAX 360c MKII, the Blackfin DSP chip improves the unit’s ability to distinguish between various radar signals in the area, identifying real threats versus false alerts and prioritizing what is displayed.
When the MAX 360c MKII detects a radar source, the Blackfin DSP chip analyzes the signal and displays crucial information, such as signal strength, band types, and frequency. This quick analysis results in a quieter drive with significantly fewer false alerts, especially on K band frequencies, compared to the original MAX 360c.
While the original MAX 360c does offer some digital signal processing capabilities—contributing to its status as a top-tier radar detector—the MKII takes it further with the advanced Blackfin DSP. This enhancement puts it on par with other premium Escort models, like the MAXcam 360c and Redline 360c.Although no radar detector can completely eliminate false alerts, the integration of the Blackfin DSP dramatically reduces them.
Escort also employs its proprietary IVT Filter, or “in-vehicle technology” filter, to further minimize false alerts caused by radar-based collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control systems in other vehicles. Additionally, the K Notch filter can be activated in the settings menu to reduce false alerts from specific vehicles operating within the 24.190 to 24.210 GHz frequency range. I personally keep the K Notch filter enabled here in Detroit.
Range Detection
While the Blackfin DSP excels at distinguishing real threats from false alerts, the next-generation dual-antenna platform enhances range detection for the MAX 360c MKII.Like the original MAX 360c, the MKII features directional arrows that indicate whether a threat is in front of or behind you. However, the difference in range detection between the two models is particularly noticeable in high-traffic and heavily patrolled areas in Detroit, such as I-696 and Telegraph Road.
Although we had no complaints about the original MAX 360c’s range, the MKII detects Michigan State Police and Wayne County Sheriff Deputies using constant-on Ka band from a greater distance, which has been a pleasant surprise.On Telegraph Road, for instance, law enforcement often stays in the left lanes, allowing them to easily execute Michigan Left turns to catch speeders approaching from behind. With the wide expanses, hills, and turns on Telegraph Road, it’s relatively easy for officers to hide in plain sight among heavy traffic in non-descript patrol vehicles like Ford Explorers or Chevy Tahoes.The upgraded dual-antenna platform of the Escort MAX 360c MKII is particularly well-suited for such areas, providing more advanced warning than older Escort models when an officer is traveling toward you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Escort MAX 360c MKII stands out as a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering enhanced performance and advanced features for radar detector enthusiasts. With the integration of the new Blackfin DSP chip, users benefit from improved false alert filtering, resulting in a quieter driving experience and a higher level of accuracy in detecting genuine threats. The dual-antenna platform enhances range detection, providing earlier warnings in high-traffic and heavily patrolled areas, making it a valuable companion for drivers seeking peace of mind on the road.
Moreover, the updated Drive Smarter app complements the MAX 360c MKII, enabling real-time threat notifications and user-friendly settings adjustments via smartphone connectivity. Whether you are a seasoned radar detector user or upgrading from an older model, the MAX 360c MKII delivers impressive performance and functionality that justify its price point. While alternatives exist for those seeking a simpler radar detection solution, the MKII’s robust feature set and reliability make it a worthy investment for any serious driver.
