Best Bluetooth Speaker for Car: Reviews, Specs, Prices

Looking for the best bluetooth speaker for car? Don’t make your decision before reading this guide!

The advent of technology has significantly sharpened the way we enjoy life. A decade ago, listening to music with high sound quality was something luxurious. Recently, we see car speakers that enable music listeners to experience mind-blowing soundspace. The disadvantages of those car speakers are they require installation with a bit of knowledge. Though car speakers upgrade the way we listen to music, some of them cost a fortune.

Fortunately, there is an alternative for us. Bluetooth speaker for cars, a contemporary innovation, has shown us a hands-free way to listen to music. Bluetooth car speakers enable you to connect your mobile device/ music player to the car stereo. They create a benign and legitimate environment within your car.

The commonly known Bluetooth speakers for cars are Bluetooth FM transmitters and Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits. Both communicate with your phone or any mobile devices via Bluetooth. Both types will utilize your existing stereo system for music streaming and sound production. The differences are sound quality and price tag. FM transmitters are generally inexpensive compared to Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits, however, the sound quality and built-in features are nowhere near satisfaction. Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits, though are more expensive, offer better sound quality and diverse high-end features.

When it comes to types of speakers, you should be careful. Determining what you need and how much you want to pay will help you figure out which type of speaker you need.

The trouble is to find a good and suitable Bluetooth speaker for your car. I have been there before, scouring sites to sites on the Internet in the hope of searing for the right Bluetooth device. And finally, I have come up with this brilliant 10 best bluetooth car speakers. I’m sure you can use it as a reliable source when you want to buy your own Bluetooth speaker.

This list includes two types of Bluetooth speakers: FM transmitters and Bluetooth car kits. Together with detail guidelines on how to choose the best Bluetooth speaker for car music and the pros and cons of both FM Transmitters and Bluetooth Car Kits, I hope you will you a suitable item.

Best Bluetooth Speaker for Car

Best FM Transmitters

1. ZOETOUCH Wireless Radio Transmitter Car AUX Adapter Bluetooth Car Kit Stereo Audio Receiver

Features:

  • LCD display: 1.44 inch
  • Input: 12V-24V
  • USB Ports: 3
  • Music playing modes: 4
  • FM Frequency Range: 87.5MHz - 108.0MHZ
  • FM Operating Distance: 5M
ZOETOUCH Wireless Radio Transmitter Car AUX Adapter Bluetooth Car Kit Stereo Audio Receiver

ZOETOUCH creates a safe space for you to receive and answer calls without touching the phone. 3 USB ports are available for any emergency case of drained battery. The device features a large, rotatable LCD display to show incoming phone numbers, song titles, and FM stations.

This device adopts standard cigar lighter port. It doesn’t take up space or time to mount. The 3.0 Bluetooth protocol allows stable connection with your music device. The CVC noise cancellation technology stabilizes music streaming, generating a soundspace with high music quality.

All in all, ZOETOUCH bring car users more bang for the buck with its latest Bluetooth Fm transmitter features. The downside is it only supports Bluetooth 3.0. If you forget to use FM transmitter function, it will turn off itself. That causes a bit of problem to turn it on again. If you look for a Bluetooth speaker with strong functions and affordable price, this is it.

Pros:

  • Rotatable LCD display
  • Can play music from micro SD card
  • 3 USB ports
  • Good quality of sound

Cons:

  • Noise distortion in some frequencies
  • The automatic power-off feature makes it a bit inconvenient

2. LIHAN Hands-Free Bluetooth FM Transmitter

Features:

  • CVC technology
  • USB ports: 2
  • input 12 V- 24V
  • Charge port: 3.1 A
  • Fm Radio: 87.5 to 108 Mhz
  • Bluetooth: 4.0
LIHAN Hands-Free Bluetooth FM Transmitter

The design of Lihan is unique with two top dual USB ports, a small LED display below, and a multifunction knob. One USB port with 3.1 A allows you to charge your phone in case of emergency. The other with 1A is usable for both charge or USB reading. These two USB ports allow you to charge and read USB drive at the same time. Lihan also has an additional option for TF card.

This speaker features hands-free function and voice broadcast which enable you to make and receive call behind the wheel. It’s easy to mount and goes along with all Andriod and iOS mobile device. The multifunction knob is the highlight of Lihan. It helps you to navigate the call. The CVC technology to eliminate any distracting sound makes sure you can enjoy music throughout your trip.

The disadvantage of Lihan is tolerable at its reasonable price. It features no AUX port, which means you can’t add any extra sound capacity. Given the overall good audio performance, Lihan is an excellent choice for audiophiles.

Pros:

  • The design is exceptional
  • Noise Cancellation Technology enables a full music experience
  • Fast connection
  • Compatible with most audio devices.

Cons:

  • Doesn’t support AUX port
  • No additional remote control

3. Nulaxy Wireless In-Car Bluetooth FM Transmitter - KM 18

Features:

  • Bluetooth: 3.0
  • Hands-free calling
  • USB car charger
  • Battery between 14.8V to 13.4V
  • LCD display: 1.44 inches
Nulaxy Wireless In-Car Bluetooth FM Transmitter - KM 18

Nulaxy is the easy-to-handle type of Fm Transmitter. All you need to do is to connect it with the cigarette lighter port and then you can enjoy the ride with music playing continuously. The 3.0 Bluetooth standard enables the smooth streaming music between your Bluetooth and your music player device.

Nulaxy remembers all connected devices, so you don’t have to search for your music player device anytime you reset the transmitter. It is best with music streaming and plays MP3 music files. You can use AUX input or any wired connection to connect it to your speaker.

The FM transmitter quality is another advantage of this wireless FM transmitter. It features flexible controlling panel, LED screen with built-in microphone for easy, hands-free calls.

The biggest problem is Nulaxy is power-consuming. There is no stand-by feature which allows this device to sleep while being unused. It is a standard Bluetooth speaker for cars, which will satisfy undemanding car users.

Pros:

  • Great audio quality
  • Affordable price
  • Able to Remember connected devices
  • Best for streaming music

Cons:

  • No stand-by feature, therefore, power-consuming
  • No extra USB port

4. GOGroove FlexSMART X2 Bluetooth In-Car FM Transmitter

Features:

  • Connectivity Ports: 3.5mm audio line in; USB charging port
  • FM Tuning Options: Manual
  • Bluetooth Version: v2.1
  • Mounting Options: DC flex-neck 7-inch
  • Power: DC 12~24V
GOGroove FlexSMART X2 Bluetooth In-Car FM Transmitter

Gogroove FlexSmart X2 may not be the best option, but it surely is the cheaper choice out there when it comes to car Bluetooth speaker. Gogroove features a control knob and controlling buttons including playback, pause, forward and backward. This small FM transmitter attaches a 5-volt USB port, which is more than enough for most smartphones.

Gogroove FlexSmart X2 uses two wireless technologies: Bluetooth and FM transmission. The Bluetooth feature can successfully pair X2 with any smartphones with a required PIN (typically 0000). It is a hands-free speaker with A2DP streaming music capability. The FM transmitter feature allows it to receive short-range FM radio.

Most audiophiles won’t consider X2 as a good investment. Its audio quality is limited and the FM radio broadcast isn’t that wonderful. However, X2 is probably the cheapest option you can find in the world of Bluetooth speakers for cars. So it could be a good pick for you if you don’t need a high-tech speaker.

Pros:

  • Easy to install
  • Good option for most car users
  • Cheap price

Cons:

  • Low quality of FM broadcast
  • Audio quality is limited

5. SoundBot SB360FM FM Radio Transmitter Bluetooth 4.1 Wireless Receiver

Features:

  • Bluetooth: 4.1
  • Intuitive 4 Button design: FM Button, Multi-Function Button, Forward, & Backward
  • Built-in noise reduction microphone
  • Car charger: 25.5W
SoundBot SB360FM FM Radio Transmitter Bluetooth 4.1 Wireless Receiver

The highlight of SoundBot SB360FM is that this little guy requires neither aux cable nor battery. The advanced technology without cable or jack allows you to eliminate extra time to set up your speaker. It also ensures the strong connection with your mobile device, thus making your music streaming feel priceless.

The latest Bluetooth 4.1 standard compatible with almost all mobile devices with remote control aptitude using A2DP. You can connect it with Smartphone, Andriod, Kindle, iPhone, iPad, Tablet, and other music devices within a distance of 33 feet.

This small FM transmitter doesn’t need a big workspace. Therefore, what you need to do is basically to find a small space for the magnetic mounting disc on your car dash. Furthermore, Smart Siri & Voice Command features allow you to control the speaker by voice while driving.

Overall, SoundBot SB360FM is a small speaker with powerful design and features. It offers a competitive price with a relatively good value. However, this in-car speaker may not a suitable option for those who aim for a better and durable speaker.

Pros:

  • Compatible with almost all mobile devices
  • Installation is super easy
  • High audio quality
  • High Call quality
  • Cheap price for a good value

Cons:

  • The rewind/back function sometimes doesn’t work
  • The initial volume is at the lowest level so you have to adjust it every time you open the speaker.

Best Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits

1. Jabra Drive Bluetooth In-Car Speakerphone

Features:

  • Bluetooth version: 3.0
  • Bluetooth profiles: A2DP v1.2, Hands-free v 1.5
  • Transmission distance: 33 feet
  • Paired device: 8
  • Internal battery
Jabra Drive Bluetooth In-Car Speakerphone

Another small-but-strong Bluetooth speakerphone that allows drivers to use their phones in a safe and legal space. You can clip the Jabra Drive on your sun visor and let it sit there for the rest of the journey. Jabra Drive features voice dialing. You just need to press down the answer/ end call button and wait for a few seconds until the Jabra Drive allows you to talk.

One highlight of Jabra Drive is the call quality. The clarity and volume are excellent. The built-in microphone with noise and echo cancellation technology is so effective that you don’t hear any background noise.

Jabra Drive allows up to 8 Bluetooth devices to connect at the same time. You can link your phone for calls, music player for music streaming, and GPS as well. Unfortunately, the music quality is not as good as the call quality.

I’d recommend you to buy it if your primary drive is to make and answer calls. Since the music streaming is just an added feature, you’ll likely be disappointed with the sound quality.

Pros:

  • Call quality is excellent
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Sturdy design
  • Internal battery plus cigarette lighter charger for more options

Cons:

  • Music quality is low
  • A/C noise appears sometimes

2. SuperTooth Buddy Bluetooth Visor Speakerphone Car Kit

Features:

  • Bluetooth version: 2.1
  • Operating range: 33 feet
  • Frequency; 2.4 GHz
  • Sun visor clip
  • Interface: USB
SuperTooth Buddy Bluetooth Visor Speakerphone Car Kit

SuperTooth has successfully proved that look isn’t everything. Though the design isn’t very user-friendly, there are numerous advantages to SuperTooth that could make you ignore its design.

First, SuperTooth is compatible with all Bluetooth device. It requires no installation. It can clip on your sun visor and stay there working without disturbing you. It allows to pair up to 2 devices at the same time. Though small, SuperTooth can work up to 20 hours constantly. It has 1000 hours of standby.

The sound quality is good. SuperTooth is generally more expansive than its peers. With this price, you have plentiful options to choose from. Plus, the clip is not stable after some time. SuperTooth is probably a good choice for its durability and interesting features.

Pros:

  • Easy to use
  • Battery life is excellent
  • Audio quality is acceptable

Cons:

  • Quite expensive
  • The clip is not stable
  • The design is not impressive

3. Mpow Bluetooth Receiver, Streambot Hands-free Car Kits & Wireless Music Adapter

Features:

  • Bluetooth version: 4.0
  • Transmission distance: 33 feet in open space
  • Battery life: 10 hours to 120 hours
  • Interface: 3.5mm, USB
Mpow Bluetooth Receiver, Streambot Hands-free Car Kits & Wireless Music Adapter

Mpow is famous for its capacity to stream music. It’s quite small and that factor brings many advantages. The device features built-in battery which can work up to 10 hours. Given its small size, 10-hour is a good deal. However, compared to other Bluetooth car adapters, this is just like a drop in the ocean.

Mpow allows you to connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time, so you won’t have to decide which one to choose which one to leave. This little guy can connect to a mobile device within a range of 33 feet in open space. The Bluetooth standard is 4.0, which stabilize the Bluetooth connection with mobile devices. You can connect with smartphones, tablets and more with a clear and strong signal.

The downsides of Mpow also come from its internal battery. Unlike other Bluetooth adapters, it doesn’t get power from the cigarette lighter port. The internal battery provides the power for Mpow. The device can be used up to 10 hours and require at least 1.5 hours to charge.

To be honest, I would buy this adapter if I didn’t spend too much time with my car. If I, let’s say, drove 3 to 4 hours per day, this adapter would be the perfect choice for me. However, that’s not the case. So if your driving requires you to stay longer inside the car, you’d better look for another option

Pros:

  • It’s small and portable, one of the best portable bluetooth speaker for cars.
  • It allows you to connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time
  • No extra cigarette lighter port needed

Cons

  • Short battery life

4. Aigital Bluetooth Car Kit HandsFree

Features:

  • Bluetooth: 4.1 + EDR Wireless
  • Wireless Rage: 10m
  • Battery: 3.7V – 1000mAh
  • Frequency Range: ISM 2.4GHz-2.48GHz
  • Charging input: 5V/500mA
Aigital Bluetooth Car Kit HandsFree

Aigital Speakerphone is a wonderful speakerphone with many interesting features. It is super easy to set up. The built-in motion sensor enables the device to automatic open as soon as you get in the car. Additionally, you can connect with the automatic working function to verbally order Aigital for auto connection, auto on, off, or standby.

The functional panel enables you to manually receive calls, reduce or increase volume. The Bluetooth version of 4.1 allows stable connection and great sound quality. Noise cancellation technology will make sure your voice call will be crystal clear. What’s more, you can connect 2 phones at the same time for maximum use.

What I want to point out here is Aigital is the optimal choice for those who love handy features. The power-saving mode will remind you every 15 seconds verbally “Battery low” to make sure you charge it with sufficient power. The music player volume is loud and clear, making it the best portable device for music streaming. However, sometimes the device needs quite some time before stably connecting to your mobile device. The in-call sound is not so loud, so you have to maximize the volume when answering calls.

Pros:

  • Great audio quality
  • Automatic standby mode
  • Apple Siri connection
  • Works simultaneously with 2 phones.

Cons:

  • Requires time to connect with mobile devices
  • The sensor function is unstable

5. Kinivo BTC450 Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kit

Features:

  • Bluetooth version: 4.0
  • Bluetooth profiles: A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile), HFP (Hands-free), HSP (Headset Profile).
  • Interface: USB, 3.5mm plug
Kinivo BTC450 Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kit

Kinivo BTC 450 provides a fantastic connection and strong signal. The clarity of music and call is top-notch. However, there are a few distortion blips when streaming music. This, however, is a common problem with Bluetooth music streaming.

The set up is simple. You just need to find an aux port on your stereo, plug it in and attach it on the dash. You won’t have much trouble finding pair device. Nevertheless, in some cases, it takes up to 3 minutes to identify and successfully pair with other Bluetooth devices.

All in all, Kinivo BTC450 features powerful functions. Its sound quality is amazing for both music streaming and call. The only downside is probably price. It costs $35.99. With this price, you can find speakers with the same features but cheaper.

Pros:

  • Great Bluetooth profile for car.
  • Signal clarity is wonderful
  • Sound quality is great
  • Easy to set up

Cons:

  • Price
  • The control panel is not clearly noticeable.

II. How to choose the best bluetooth car speaker?

Driving car while using mobile phones is considered illegal and extremely dangerous in many places. But you don’t have to worry about that anymore with the advent of Bluetooth speakers. Bluetooth speakers enable drivers to pick up and answer calls without touching their phones. With the latest Bluetooth standard, it allows music and sound to be transmitted from mobile devices with better quality and less background noise.

Bluetooth car speakers come with many shapes and features. On one hand, you have an ocean of choices when it comes to Bluetooth speakers. On the other hand, it’s not an easy task to pick out the best and most suitable speaker for your own need.

If you choose a Bluetooth speaker without a moderate knowledge of how it functions and which features should you aim for, you will soon be disappointed with the newly purchased item. Below are important factors when you look at best Bluetooth car speaker that I have gathered during my research.

  • Audio performance 

Probably this is the most important factor to pay attention to while looking for a speaker. If you spend most of your time driving, a good speaker with a high quality of sound production is a guarantee for a good drive. Some Bluetooth car speakers focus on low frequencies rather than high ones. Sometimes you will only hear the strong bass sounds. This could be a drawback because the sound doesn’t seem to be real. You may want to test the audio performance of the speaker before buying.

The best option is to find the perfect blends between treble and loud bass, making sure the streaming music doesn’t lose its authentic sound. Some Bluetooth car speakers can produce extremely loud music at the maximum volume. However, distortion at some frequencies, especially of FM transmitters will appear as soon as you raise the volume up. Make sure that you double check this before buying a speaker.

  • Charging and battery life 

Another important feature is charging and battery life. Most Bluetooth car speakers can operate constantly at least 5 hours. Those high-profile car speakers can even stream music up to 10 hours nonstop. Speakerphones probably have the toughest battery life since they can run nonstop 20 to 40 hours. However, it is only possible when you use them to receive calls only.

Though most Bluetooth car speakers have strong battery life, it doesn’t mean that they will never run off energy. Therefore, you need to find a device that allows the instant and easy charge, especially when you are driving. The best is to look for speakers that allow you to use 20 hours per charge.

More importantly, you should look for speakers with automatic standby mode. Even if you forget to turn the speaker off, it will be ready to use anytime and save energy.

  • Portability

You don’t want the Bluetooth car speaker to fall off the dashboard while driving. Hence it’s essential to look for a stable Bluetooth speaker. Many modern Bluetooth car speakers offer lanyards, suction cups, or clip-on to improve the portability and stability.

Bluetooth speakers are mostly small and lightweight. This important characteristic enables you to carry them wherever you need. However, you should also be watchful not to forget where you have put them.

  • Price Range

There is a huge gap between high-end and low-end Bluetooth car speakers. You can find many low-end speakers with decent features with price less than $20. There are Bluetooth speakers that cost more than $100.

Bear in mind that great price comes with great quality. Those cost $20 cannot work as good as those cost $100. Though quality is important, there are other factors to be considered. It’s not necessary to pay for an expensive speakerphone when you don’t need it.

  • Control

Obsolete Bluetooth speakers for cars feature manual controlling function. Some provide you with a knob or controlling buttons to navigate outgoing/ incoming call or streaming music. The manual controlling function may be the best feature for a Bluetooth speaker because after all, you use Bluetooth speaker to lessen the danger of phone use while driving.

Recent Bluetooth speakers feature voice-operated, which mean you can verbally control speaker functions while keeping your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Some even allow you to access Siri and Google to change music tracks, receive calls or mute. Of course, speakers with this feature will cost much more than those without.

Another option is the remote control panel. This panel can be attached to the wheel or anywhere you find comfortable. If you want to manage songs or use other features, you don’t have to reach out to the speaker.

  • Call Quality 

After all, you shop for a Bluetooth car speaker for the purpose of making and receiving phone calls while driving. For that reason, the quality of incoming and outgoing calls should be at the top of your priority. Low sound quality will make it hard for you to understand the conversation. It makes no sense to purchase a cheap, poor-quality Bluetooth speaker.

The Bluetooth car speakers with a frequency range between 50HZ to 7kHZ will ensure the clearness of sound production. Some Bluetooth car speakers use noise and echo cancellation technology, maximizing the clarity of sound. Built-in microphones will also help to eliminate background noise too.

  • Support

Most of Bluetooth speakers for cars offer a one-year warranty. But there is more to expect. Some companies provide virtual supporters in apps online. Some offer downloads. Take a closer look at what they offer and pick what fit you best.

III. Bluetooth FM Transmitters vs Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits for Car

  • Bluetooth FM Transmitters 

Bluetooth FM transmitters for car don’t have any internal amplifier. Instead, they depend exclusively on an FM signal to intensify sound and audio. Bluetooth FM transmitters alter the audio transmission from your mobile device to an FM signal. To listen to the music, you need to turn on your stereo and use an empty radio station for music streaming.

Most FM transmitters feature hands-free function, which minimizes your physical control. It can link with the car’s stereo system to play music at maximum volume. However, this could also be a setback since the music quality relies heavily on the features of the stereo system. The audio quality can also be affected by transmission strength.

FM transmitters use cigarette lighter ports as its primary source of power. Recent FM-transmitter models allow users to verbally control their device, but they come with a high price. In most case, you have to manage your mobile device manually.

Bluetooth FM transmitters are available with cheap price and upgrading features. It’s a safe choice for those who don’t spend much of their time in the car and those who don’t actively look for high-tech features.

  • Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits 

Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits are divided into two types: Bluetooth Auxiliary Adapters and Visor Kits. The Bluetooth Auxiliary Adapters connect to the stereo system of your car by a 3.5mm aux. port. The advantage of Bluetooth Auxiliary Adapters is they permit you the access to your car’s stereo system to stream calls, play music and determine GPS transmitter. The Visor Kits, on the other hand, clip on your sun visor with built-in speakers that also allow you to do the same.

What makes Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits different from FM Transmitters is the consistency of transmission. FM Transmitters create signals that can be affected by static and tuning problems. This is not a problem with Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kit. As a result, Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits are generally more expensive and better qualified than FM transmitters.

However, Bluetooth Auxiliary Adapters lack compatibility. Since you need to connect an aux. adapter with your car stereo, it could be a nuisance if the car doesn’t have an auxiliary input in the front. In this case, you can use Bluetooth Visor Kits instead. Given the high price, Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits may not be suitable for many people. 

Most Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits allow users to control music through a remote control panel. Echo cancellation system is an added benefit for Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits’ users. They also feature a standby mode to prolong battery life.

All in all, Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kits are upgraded version of Bluetooth FM transmitters. They offer better and stable sound quality with many built-in features. However, they may not a good match if you want to save money.

One final thing I would like to emphasize that you shouldn’t rush to buy a Bluetooth speaker for your car. You should make a list of desired features that you want the speaker to have, then carefully compare and match with the list of best Bluetooth speaker for cars above. I’m sure you will find a suitable one for your car there.

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