Do You Need a Radiation Detector and How to Choose the Best One?

I Tested Several Models in the $100 Range

A uranium glass kitchen plate, Image by author

In many online shops, we can see different radiation detectors. Their prices can vary drastically, from $25 for noname Chinese models to $2,500 for professional ones used by government authorities. But do you really need one? And if yes, which one to buy? Let’s figure it out!

In this article, I will test several detector models using the various radiation sources that people can occasionally find.

Let’s get started!

1. Do You Need a Radiation Detector?

This is likely the first question that appeared in your mind when you saw this article. The short answer is — probably not. However, it depends.

Let me explain.

On the one hand, the government and authorities do their best to protect people from radiation sources. At least in developed countries, food and all imported goods are controlled, and customs and postal authorities have automatic radiation detectors (don’t ask me how I know;). The chance of being harmed by the high radiation dose is also minuscule, and such events are extremely rare. However, they can happen. As an example, in 1987, a highly radioactive caesium source was stolen, sold…