Car theft is evolving. While older methods like breaking windows are still used, thieves now exploit electronic vulnerabilities in modern vehicles. Keyless entry systems, designed for convenience, have become a target. Criminals use relay attacks – amplifying the signal from your key fob, even inside your home – to unlock and start your car. The solution? Faraday bags, named after the scientist Michael Faraday, who discovered the principle of electromagnetic shielding nearly two centuries ago. These pouches block radio frequencies, preventing thieves from cloning your key’s signal.
The market offers a wide range, from basic pouches costing just a few pounds to more premium options. This review tests which Faraday bags deliver the best protection against relay attacks, along with durability and value.
Testing Methodology
To evaluate effectiveness, we tested each bag’s ability to block key fob signals from unlocking and starting three ‘keyless’ vehicles. The test included simulating real-world wear by tumbling pouches 1,200 times with keys inside, mimicking 18 months of regular use. We also assessed features like closure mechanisms (Velcro, magnets) and additional loops for keychains.
Top Picks: Faraday Bags Reviewed
1. Hilka Pro-Craft Faraday Car Key Signal Blocker (Rating: 5.0/5.0, Price: £7.99/twin pack)
The Hilka Pro-Craft pouch offers excellent performance at a budget-friendly price. It consistently blocked all signals both before and after our durability test. The wide Velcro flap securely fastened even bulky key fobs. At under £8 for two pouches, it provides outstanding value. The only drawback is a separate, unprotected pocket, which could lead to accidental misuse.
2. Temu Faraday Car Key Pouches (Rating: 4.5/5.0, Price: £5.68/2 pack)
Temu’s pouches stand out with their stylish carbon-look finish and secure chrome clips. The pouches feature distinct stitching for easy identification. While performing well in testing, a slight signal leak occurred when overfilled and improperly closed. Despite this, they remain a strong contender due to their low price and aesthetic appeal.
3. Disklabs KS1 Faraday Bag Signal Blocker (Rating: 4.0/5.0, Price: £24.99)
The Disklabs KS1 offers a premium feel with its high-quality canvas construction and robust Velcro fastener. The pouch’s snug fit and secure closure ensured complete signal blocking. However, its high price makes it less practical for most consumers. The inclusion of a fabric loop for keychains is a useful addition.
4. Stoplock Anti Theft RFID Protection Pouch (Rating: 3.5/5.0, Price: £8.02)
This pouch is large enough to fit a smartphone but struggles with bulky key fobs due to narrow Velcro bands. Despite this, it effectively blocked signals even when partially open. The oversized design may not suit all users.
5. Simply RFID Wallet (Rating: 3.5/5.0, Price: £5.99/twin pack)
Simply’s pouches deliver good value, passing both initial and durability tests. However, signal leakage occurred when overfilled, making a clean flap closure crucial. The lack of keychain loops is another minor limitation.
6. Halfords Car Key Signal Blocker (Rating: 3.5/5.0, Price: £4)
The Halfords Blocker is virtually identical in performance to the Simply RFID Wallet, likely from the same manufacturer. The price difference makes the Simply twin pack a better deal.
7. AA Anti-Theft RFID Pouchspec (Rating: 2.5/5.0, Price: £11.95)
The AA pouch’s awkward square shape makes it difficult to fit larger keys. The magnetic closure is unreliable, frequently popping open. Despite passing tests, its impractical design hinders usability.
Conclusion
The Hilka Pro-Craft Faraday Car Key Signal Blocker stands out as the best overall choice, offering reliable protection at an affordable price. Temu’s pouches provide a compelling alternative for budget-conscious buyers, while Disklabs KS1 delivers premium quality at a higher cost. Investing in a Faraday bag is a simple yet effective measure against modern car theft, protecting your vehicle from increasingly sophisticated criminals.
