Are there any inexpensive units with a darn? I coach little league soccer and I would like one to have on the field with me. I do not want to spend $500. $100 is probably reasonable, less is better.
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Howdy,
Some time ago I bought an AcuRite "Portable Lightning Detector 02020CA" model lightning detector [paid $45 clams for it w/other stuff that was on sale, it probably goes on sale too].
It's about the size of an [old] pager but lighter, has a clip on back, little red indicator light and screen on front; you can clip it on a shirt pocket or collar. Unlike nincehelder, I can hear it some distance away with no problem, even from other rooms [it may even vibrate like a phone?].
Now for its' overall detection performance:
After using it for~9 months, I'd rate it 4.5 out of 5.
It is quite sensitive and picks up most strikes in the vicinity, out to about 10-14 miles and more. Its' 'distance' readings aren't always on [subjective judgement], but it will give you plenty of warning of an approaching TS.
It can/might be a little directionally sensitive, as I checked it out with different locations and orientations, but inside the house with lots of potential interference. But I now have it hanging mostly statically right next to my massive metal front door [don't know if that helps or hurts it]. So far I haven't used it on my person or in a vehicle [since like most here, I'm a WXnut and watch things closely most of the time on a computer or smartphone [just need to open my Opera mobile browser and voila, a dozen or so main WX tabs spring open anytime, among others].
I think it would probably work even better outside in the open [and I just remembered I was going to get another one for the boat].
I also usually activate a browser tab with a lightning detection website when there's something brewing.
The AcuRite is actually more accurate than that website, judging by what my own eyes and ears tell me.
It's also quicker, as it's response time is only a fraction of a second after strikes [actually seems to take a few milliseconds longer to process more distant strikes...].
Overall, I'd say that little detector would be about perfect for your stated need for one. [usual legalese disclaimers for me and AR
]
There are probably other brands and models out there.
I'm just rating my unit, and experience [and I've subscribed to Consumer Reports since ~1968, so am a little 'picky' about stuff].