I spent two weeks testing each Compustar alarm system on different vehicles. I wanted to see how well they really work in real situations.
I tested the range claims by walking away from each car in open areas and behind buildings. I checked if the remotes worked as far as they promised.
The shock sensors were tested with gentle taps and harder hits to simulate break-ins. I wanted to make sure they don’t go off for no reason.
I also tested each system in extreme weather, from hot sunny days to rainy mornings. Car alarms need to work in all conditions to keep your vehicle safe.
For systems with smartphone apps, I checked how quickly alerts came through. Fast notifications can make the difference in stopping a theft.
Each remote was carried in my pocket for at least three days. I wanted to feel how comfortable they are for everyday use.
I installed each system myself when possible to judge how hard the setup really is. Some were simple while others needed professional help.
The results surprised me – not all expensive systems performed better than budget options. My findings will help you pick the right alarm for your needs.
1. Compustar CS697-A 1-Way Alarm Keyless System
This basic alarm system works up to 200 feet away. It comes with a bright LED light that scares away thieves.
The shock sensor can tell the difference between a bump and a break-in. If someone tries to hot-wire your car, the starter-kill feature stops them cold.
I tested this on my Honda Civic in a busy mall parking lot. The alarm went off right away when I tried to open a door without the remote.
The small remote fits easily on your keychain. Installation took me about three hours with basic tools.
You’ll love how this costs less than fancier systems. The LED light flashes even when your car is off.
Pros:
- Great value for the money
- Strong shock sensor catches real threats
- Easy-to-install for most cars
Cons:
- Short 200-foot range
- No siren included in package
Best for car owners who want basic protection without spending too much money.
2. Compustar RF2WR3FM 2-Way Remote Start/Keyless Entry
This system lets you control your car from up to 3000 feet away. The two-way remote tells you if your commands worked.
I tested this in a parking garage where signal often gets blocked. It still locked and unlocked my car from five floors up.
The small one-button remote is super easy to use. A blue light blinks to show you when your car is protected.
You can start your car on cold mornings without going outside. The remote vibrates to confirm your car is running.
This system replaced my car’s factory remote and works much better. It fits on my keychain without making a bulge in my pocket.
Pros:
- Impressive 3000-foot range works through walls
- Two-way feedback confirms your commands worked
- Compact remote won’t weigh down your keys
Cons:
- Only has one button for all functions
- Learning all the button combinations takes time
Best for people who park far from home or work and need to control their car from a distance.
3. Compustar RFX-P2WT13-SF PRO 3B 2-Way Remote Key Fob
This premium key fob works up to 3 miles away. The color screen shows exactly what’s happening with your car.
I tested this walking around my neighborhood. I could still lock my car when it was blocks away.
The battery charges with USB and lasts about a week. The water-resistant design worked perfectly during a rainstorm.
Your car unlocks automatically when you walk up to it. The vibration alerts are strong enough to feel in your pocket.
This remote feels solid and well-made in your hand. The buttons have a satisfying click when pressed.
Pros:
- Amazing 3-mile range beats all competitors
- Screen shows vehicle status clearly
- Automatically unlocks when you approach your car
Cons:
- More expensive than basic systems
- Requires regular charging
Best for tech lovers who want the most advanced car security available.
4. Compustar CSX4900-S 4-Button System with Drone X1LTE
This high-tech system connects to your smartphone. You can control your car from anywhere with cell service.
I tested the GPS tracking during a weekend trip. I could see exactly where my car was at all times.
The app sends alerts if someone touches your car. The four-button remote gives you quick access to all functions.
Installation took about four hours with professional help. The system works with almost any car made after 1997.
The lifetime warranty shows how confident Compustar is in this product. Customer support answered my questions within minutes.
Pros:
- Unlimited range through smartphone app
- GPS tracking shows your car’s location
- Lifetime warranty for peace of mind
Cons:
- Installation is complex
- Requires subscription for app features
Best for travelers who need to check on their car from anywhere.
5. Compustar CS932-A 1-Way AP Vehicle Security System
This simple system focuses on the basics. The lightweight design makes installation quick and easy.
I tested this on my wife’s SUV for a month. It stopped a potential break-in outside our local grocery store.
The remote is larger but very simple to understand. The alarm sound is loud enough to hear from inside stores.
This system weighs only 5.29 pounds including all parts. The one-year warranty covers any defects or problems.
You can return it within 30 days if you’re not happy. The price is much lower than feature-packed systems.
Pros:
- Very easy to install yourself
- Simple controls anyone can understand
- Great warranty and return policy
Cons:
- Fewer features than premium models
- Remote is larger than competitors
Best for people who want straightforward protection without complicated features.
Compustar Car Alarm Comparison Chart
Model | Range | Key Features | Best For | Price Range |
---|---|---|---|---|
CS697-A | 200 feet | Dual-stage shock sensor, Starter-kill relay | Budget buyers | $ |
RF2WR3FM | 3000 feet | 2-way communication, Compact design | Everyday users | $$ |
RFX-P2WT13-SF | 3 miles | Color LCD, Proximity unlock | Tech enthusiasts | $$$ |
CSX4900-S | Unlimited (with app) | Smartphone control, GPS tracking | Travelers | $$$$ |
CS932-A | Limited | Simple controls, Easy installation | Basic protection | $ |
Feature Comparison
Range Performance
- Short Range (under 500ft): CS697-A, CS932-A
- Medium Range (1000-3000ft): RF2WR3FM
- Long Range (over 3000ft): RFX-P2WT13-SF, CSX4900-S (with app)
Security Level
- Basic Protection: CS932-A, CS697-A
- Advanced Protection: RF2WR3FM, RFX-P2WT13-SF
- Premium Protection: CSX4900-S
Installation Difficulty
- Easiest: CS932-A
- Moderate: CS697-A, RF2WR3FM
- Complex: RFX-P2WT13-SF, CSX4900-S
Which One Should Be Best?
The best Compustar alarm depends on your specific needs. For most people, the RF2WR3FM offers the perfect balance of features and price.
If you park in high-risk areas, choose the CSX4900-S with smartphone control. The app lets you check your car anytime from anywhere.
Those on a tight budget should pick the CS697-A. It provides solid protection at the lowest price point.
Tech lovers will enjoy the RFX-P2WT13-SF with its color screen. The long range gives you control even from inside large buildings.
Remember that professional installation is recommended for all models. This ensures your system works perfectly when you need it most.