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Not all FM transmitters are made equally. Some will give you a less than ideal transmission, meaning audio that cuts out and more hassle than it’s worth. That said, there are some great transmitters out there.
In this article I’ve compiled a list of the best FM transmitters that are sure to have your songs sounding great on your home or car radio. Here they are.
Best Overall: Nulaxy Wireless In-Car Bluetooth FM Transmitter
The KM18 is a great hands-free car kit that gives you a fascinating wireless experience. It has a 1.44-inch LCD screen on the top so you can see the settings more easily. One of its main features is that it connects to your car and can charge USB devices regardless of iPhone, Galaxy, Sony, etc. It is made up of a flexible gooseneck to adjust it as you like, and you can view the screen without any problem.
Additionally, the KM18 only has two ports (USB-A and SD), while the NX12 has three. With this, the audio quality is sometimes a bit too low, depending on the model you get. Despite everything, we appreciate its screen, very practical for navigating from music to music and managing calls and SMS. All this made that we placed it as an alternative.
Additionally, it offers advanced Bluetooth 5.0 that ensures greater stability in the connection without intermittence. Its system is made to counteract the noises that come from the road and in this way, you can listen and be heard without interference during calls. In addition to listening to your favorite songs with clear sound through Bluetooth, there is also the options of TF card and auxiliary cable.
Features
- Bluetooth/ SD/TF Card/ AUX playing sources
- Uses Bluetooth 5.0 Version
- AUX Port
- 1.44 inches display
Dimensions and weight
16 x 12 x 5 cm; 22.7 grams
Pros
- Good sound quality
- Easy to set and use
- Compatible for all smartphones
- Displays caller ID
Cons
- Not compatible with Siri / Google Assistant
- No LED backlights
Summary
This transmitter is a complete solution with its 1.44-inch 360 degrees rotating screen and its hands-free kit function. It can also read SD cards and has a USB-A port.
Popular Seller: UNBREAKcable Bluetooth FM Transmitter for Car
The UNBREAKcable FM transmitter is a Bluetooth FM 5.0 and hands-free transmitter that is very practical. It tells you both the call number, its battery or volume and song title. With voice commands, it ensures safe driving as you can stay focused on the road using Siri or Google Assistant.
In addition, it has a high-performance microphone and noise suppression technology known as clear voice capture (CVC) that guarantees clarity in calls and a more stable conversation. The device has multiple charging options and fast charging function (QC and PD). However, there is a strong volume difference between on/off bass boost.
Features
- Wireless Bluetooth 5.0
- Features 3 USB Ports
- Bass music player
- Hands-free calling
- Includes PD3.0 and QC3.0 Charging Port
Dimensions and weight
11 x 6 x 4 cm; 59 Grams
Pros
- Fantastic sound quality
- Hands-free calling
- Plug and play
- Good readability of the display
- Easy pairing with a phone
Cons
- Strong volume difference between on/off bass boost
Summary
The UNBREAKcable transmitter is a device that weighs little and is easy to place in the car. In addition, the sound and manufacturing quality is very high, and the operation is relatively easy.
Budget Option: Cocoda Bluetooth FM Transmitter for Car
The Cocoda T25 transmitter is a simple and affordable model that makes it easy to control and have access to your music and calls comfortably. You only have to plug it into the cigarette lighter of your car and tune in to the corresponding station to start enjoying its functions.
You can play music, both from your mobile phone and from a micro SD card or a pen drive. You can also use its ports to charge your devices. However, there is no way to turn off the blue light of the device. So, as long as the appliance is on, the light stays on. However, it is easy to pair the phone with the device. In a few seconds, you will have the process completed.
To finish off the design, this model includes a beautiful blue ring that makes it easy to see in the dark. There’s also a suitable keypad to control the functions of the equipment and answer calls safely.
Features
- Comes with two USB port
- Supports SD Card and USB Disk
- Wireless Radio Car Adapter
Dimensions and weight
8 x 5 x 4 cm; 30 grams
Pros
- Easy to install
- Intuitive button panel
- Has the hands-free calling feature
- Has Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- No fast charge
- Blue light cannot be turned off
Summary
The device is easy to use. You just have to connect the product to the cigarette lighter, tune in the station on your radio and connect your mobile to start using it. The keypad makes it easy to answer your calls or control music playback, depending on what you need at all times. The device includes two USB ports, as well as the SD card reader port, giving the equipment wide versatility. Its blue LED lighting makes it easy to see the device at night.
Premium Option With DAB Radio: Pure Highway 600 In-Car Digital Radio FM Adapter
The Pure Highway 600 is a device designed to update your existing car, utility, or truck audio system without having to completely replace the installation. The Pure Highway 600 adapter allows you to enjoy DAB and DAB + digital radio stations as well as all music stored on your phone, tablet, or portable player, thanks to its auxiliary input and its Bluetooth receiver.
The Pure Highway adapter has the GO * technology allowing you to recognize a song broadcast on digital radio and add it to your playlist. Just press the Go button on your Highway Adapter to identify the track, and the track will be added to a Spotify playlist for you to enjoy whenever you want. Also equipped with a hands-free kit function, the Pure Highway 600 system allows you to take calls and broadcast them in the passenger compartment. So you can answer phone calls while staying focused on the road.
The Pure Highway 600 adapter’s large display features automatic dimming technology and has easy-to-read backlit buttons. Pleasant to use, it allows maximum concentration on the road. Station selection and menu navigation are quick and completely intuitive. Finally, the Pure Highway 600 adapter can save up to 20 stations so you can access them quickly and easily.
Features
- Hands-free calling
- Includes voice assistant features
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Spotify control
Dimensions and weight
28 x 8 x 3 cm; 25 grams
Pros
- Doesn’t need to be plugged in
- Great value for money
- Good sound quality
- DAB works impeccably
Cons
- Requires having a Spotify premium account
- Poor reception
Aigital Bluetooth V5.0 FM Car Transmitter
The Aigital car transmitter is everything you need at the end of a single order! This model of transmitter is adapted for the cigarette lighter and will make it possible to access a good range of functions. An efficient charging system has been equipped on this device to restore the battery of your phone in a short time.
From its very intuitive interface, you will see in particular two USB sockets, which can be used to start the audio player as well as use simultaneously to charge two phones. There are, therefore, three possible ways to play audio: either you use the aux play, flash drive, using a TF card to be inserted on the side, or from a smartphone.
This last means is operational thanks to the Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity in place. And in addition, its strong reception capacity allows it to pair a good variety of smartphones, even being at a certain distance. Finally, the device comes with 10 RGB LED lights for a visually stunning music display.
Features
- Bluetooth V5.0
- Includes 10 Ambient color Light
- Wireless Radio Adapter Receiver
- Has an 18W Fast Charge
- Includes the Deep Bass Hi-Fi Sound
- Supports SD Card and U Disk
Dimensions and weight:
11 x 7 x 5 cm; 60 grams
Pros
- Easy to pair with your mobile phone
- Can charge two phones simultaneously
- 10 LGB lights for visually appealing music
- Versatility connectivity
Cons
- Too quiet
- Reception could be better
Summary
The Aigital transmitter is a feature-rich and easy to handle device. Any action taken is visible from the small illuminated screen. It serves just as well in the dark to locate the device. We’re not sure yet if you will be able to communicate and interact with SIRI and Google Assistant on this item. With a very attractive design, the manufacturers have taken care to add a set of 10 colors on this device to give the atmosphere in your vehicle.
Nulaxy 1.8-inch Bluetooth FM Transmitter for car
The Nulaxy device is a Bluetooth FM transmitter designed for cars. It comes with an upgraded 1.8-inch color screen. It’s a wireless adapter that supports USB drive, Aux play, microSD, and more. It can even make car battery reading.
The device is a good quality FM transmitter in terms of construction. It’s based on heavy-duty plastic, which despite being made of this type of material, has an exterior that feels very resistant. It’s going to give you a crisp sound that is rarely distorted. It also pairs nicely with a variety of mobile devices and is compatible with Siri and Alexa so you can automatically play your favorite songs hands-free.
Features
- 1.8 inches color screen
- Has 3 USB ports
- Wireless and hands-free car kit
- QC3.0 and 5V/2.4A charging
- Supports USB Drive and microSD
- 5 EQ modes
Dimensions and weight
14 x 11 x 7 cm; 130 grams
Pros
- Has a large display screen
- Charges up to 4 times faster
- Ensures hands-free private calling
- Has stereo technology that suppresses noise
Cons
- A bit heavier than the rest
Summary
Overall, it’s a multifunctional and easy to set transmitter that works perfectly. It features all the ports you need for audio play and charging functions. The key highlight is that it charges super fast through the three ports.
FirstE Bluetooth FM Transmitter
The FirstE model is an easy to use Bluetooth FM transmitter. Just plug the transmitter into the car cigarette lighter socket. Then tune your car stereo to an unused FM frequency (87.5 to 108MHz range) and pair this FM transmitter to the same frequency. You can pair this hands-free kit with your phone/tablet via Bluetooth and then listen to your favorite songs or make phone calls.
If there is an incoming call, the unit automatically switches to the phone when it is in music play mode. You can enjoy music in 3 ways: via Bluetooth: via micro SD / TF card; and via USB flash drive. The sound is crystal clear thanks to the CVC noise cancellation technology adopted. In addition, answering, rejecting, hanging up incoming calls, redialing the last phone by simply pressing a “call” button are very easy.
The FirstE audio transmitter provides power for two devices simultaneously, which is rated at 3.1A together. The smart chip FM transmitter built inside splits the voltage according to the need of the device automatically.
Features
- Hands-free calling
- Dual USB ports
- CVC and EDR technology
- Features LED lights
- Can play from TF card or USB flash drive
- 5V 2.4A+1A USB charge port
Dimensions and weight
9 x 6 x 5 cm; 50 Grams
Pros
- Stable Bluetooth connectivity
- Dual USB port
- Enjoy music in 3 ways
- Clear hands-free calling
Cons
- Doesn’t display the song name
Summary
The car Bluetooth adapter solves the problems of noise and interference between channels thanks to the CVC audio technology. Now you can make a hands-free call directly from your mobile phone without interruption. It has a stable Bluetooth connection and you will be able to play music directly from mobile phone to car stereo system via FM signal.
ZeaLife C57 Bluetooth Car Adapter
The ZeaLife model C57 is an FM transmitter that transmits in a frequency range between 87.5 and 108.0 megahertz. It shows the active radio frequency and the status of the car battery via a small LED display.
The FM transmitter can be operated via cigarette lighter connections with a voltage of 12 to 24 volts. According to the manufacturer, it is therefore also suitable for use in trucks. The ZeaLife C57 is equipped with two USB ports – one for charging mobile devices and one for music playback via a USB stick. Charging devices is possible with both connections.
The connection marked “QC 3.0” is a dedicated charging connection with a quick charge function. For easy-to-understand phone calls, the FM transmitter is equipped with a high-performance microphone with CVC noise suppression.
The ZeaLife FM transmitter has a cylindrical, black and grey design. Alternatively, it is available in black and silver, black and red or completely in black.
Features
- QC 3.0 Fast Charge Port
- Hands-Free Calling
- Car charger/music player combo
- Dual USB ports
- Supports USB Flash Drive
- Suitable for iPhone and Android
Dimensions and weight
8 x 4 x 4 centimeters; 37 Grams
Pros
- Easy to use Bluetooth connectivity
- Sound very heavy on bass
- Small and portable size
- Has fast charging creatures
Cons
- Volume too low and shrill background sound after a while
- No LCD screen
Summary
It is 8 centimeters high and 3.7 centimeters wide from the package. It is operated using three buttons – one button for accepting calls and two arrow buttons for selecting the frequency. The item is easy to install, and the sound quality was really good. However, after a period of use, there was always a very shrill sound in the background, which many users found to be extremely disturbing.
SONRU Newest FM Transmitter with Bluetooth 5.0
The Sonru FM transmitter is equipped with a Bluetooth 5.0 chipset and thus allows the easy pairing of smartphones and tablets. Since a hands-free function is integrated, the car radio connected via FM can be used as a hands-free system. The necessary microphone is built into the transmitter. But music data can not only be transferred via Bluetooth. In addition, the user has an aux-in input and the option of playing music files with microSD memory cards.
The FM transmitter is equipped with LED lights. This makes it possible to let the device shine in 7 different colors, and a pulse mode is also available.
With the two integrated USB ports, two devices can be charged at the same time. One of the connections is Quick-Charge 3.0 compatible and allows four times faster charging than with a conventional connection. The transmitter supports voice assistants such as Siri or Google Assistant. There is also an LED voltage display for the car battery so that it can be monitored in real-time. The transmitter is connected via a charging adapter for the cigarette lighter and is provided with a 1.1-meter long cable.
Features
- Bluetooth 5.0 chipset
- 7 multicolored light pattern
- Quick-Charge 3.0 compatible
- Includes a 1.1-meter long cable
Dimensions and weight
13 x 10 x 6 cm; 150 grams
Pros
- You can listen to Spotify playlist with it
- Good sound quality
- Easy to install
- Low-cost gadget
Cons
- No USB input
- You cannot adjust the volume from the device
Summary
Despite the two disadvantages mentioned above, we still recommend the device for anyone who needs a low-budget gadget. There is no doubt that it is not for everyone because it doesn’t feature a USB input.
ORIA Bluetooth FM in-Car Radio Transmitter
The Oria transmitter is a super cool and must-have gadget for older cars or cars without Bluetooth. Using it is straightforward; you have to plug in the device, connect it to your mobile phone and then turn on the radio sequence. It is also possible to make phone calls and charge the mobile phone too. The device does not look cheaply processed despite its price.
By following the guide, the first installation is very elementary, and the pairing can be done in an instant. Once paired, you can answer calls and talk quietly, listening to the audio in your car’s speakers. There are 2 sockets, one for charging and one for files. You can as well listen to your favorite music either via Bluetooth or via insertion or SD memory or a USB stick.
The only flaw is a slight rustle sometimes while you are on the move, which I believe depends on the various radio interference.
Features
- Dual USB ports
- Three play modes
- Built-in Bluetooth 4.2 chip
- Hands-free calling
Dimensions and weight
13 x 7 x 5 cm; 60 grams
Pros
- Audio quality when making calls is excellent
- Controls music playing on the phone
- Straightforward setup
- Installable in 5 minutes
Cons
- Radio cuts out to another station
Summary
In conclusion, we recommend it for those who do not have USB or AUX sockets in their car and do not want to spend so much money to install them.
SONRU Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter
The Sonru FT1006 is useful for those who do not have Bluetooth in the car. Unlike low-cost transmitters where continuous rustling is heard, this blocks the radio frequency and even in the case of stations “already used” by local radios, this receiver blocks the frequency, and the sound is clear.
Also, charging from USB is fast. You wouldn’t see huge differences charging your smartphone with this as with your original charger.
It’s a good product with a compact design, equipped with two USB ports. A Fast Charge 3.0 allows you to control phone calls with ambient noise reduction.
At the connectivity level, it is equipped with Bluetooth. It detects and displays the voltage of the car battery and allows you to monitor it in real-time. Another feature for fun is the LED mood light that changes color by pressing a button on the side.
Features
- Handsfree transmitter
- Car charger + audio player
- LED display
- Supports USB Drive and TF Card
Dimensions and weight:
3 x 3 x 8 cm; 60 grams
Pros
- Colorful surround light
- Hands-free calling
- Has a fast-charging USB port
- No background noise
Cons
- Not enough control for song playback
Summary
Installing and using this device is super easy, and the connection via Bluetooth works super fast. It has lighting, which could be very helpful in the dark. The sound quality is also good. You wouldn’t hear noise when there is no other radio station near the same frequency. The device is practical and looks very modern.
SONRU FT1008 Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter
The Sonru FT1008 comes in a nice small package and, in the pack, you can find the FM transmitter and an instruction manual. A cable or anything similar is not included but is not needed. The device simply plugs into the cigarette lighter, and you can connect the device to your mobile phone.
If you want to use it in your house or somewhere else, then, of course, you would have to get a socket adapter so that you can operate it there, but that’s no problem either. If the device is connected to the mobile phone, you can set a frequency that a well-known radio station does not occupy, and you can look for this frequency on the radio while the music is playing on the radio.
For this, the device can also act as a hands-free kit, which ensures safety and further enhances the device. A USB cable can also be connected so that you can charge your mobile phone on the side. There is a card slot, so you can also insert a memory card to listen to music.
Features
- Power off standby
- Includes a Bluetooth 5.0
- Quick Charging 3.0
- Virtual assistance features
- Features the CVC noise-reducing technology
Dimensions and weight
11 x 9 x 5 cm; 80 grams
Pros
- Multifunctional Bluetooth FM transmitter
- Supports hands-free use
- Can be used to connect any phone
- Built-in noise reduction technology
Cons
- Annoying interference
Summary
This Sonru device is compact and very easy to use. Just plug the connector into the cigarette lighter, and the transmitter will light up in beautiful blue. The light is not too intrusive either. On the device itself, there is still room for a TF card that you can play with music.
SONRU FT1007 Newest FM Transmitter with Bluetooth 5.0
The SONRU FT1007 is a Bluetooth FM transmitter that is distinguished above all by its rather particular design. It is designed from two separate elements connected by cable. The power adapter is installed at the cigarette lighter. At the same time, the interface finds its place on the grilles of the vehicle’s air vent system or at a specific location on the dashboard.
This is the ideal model for vehicles with a cigarette lighter that is difficult to access. The positioning of the transmitter interface on the dashboard is also practical: the buttons and settings are directly at your fingertips.
It has two smart USB ports, one of which has QC3.0 technology for fast charging of a device. These are placed at the tip that attaches to the lighter. This supports all versions of Quick Charge technology. The SONRU FT1007 is also compatible with Siri and Google voice assistants.
Features
- Bluetooth 5.0 car radio transmitter
- Hands-free kit
- Includes a 1.1-meter cable
- Supports TF Card and AUX input
- Two modes of installations
Dimensions and weight
13 x 10 x 6 cm; 150 Grams
Pros
- Produces clear, crystal sound
- Stable Bluetooth connection
- One key and hands-free use
- Supports Siri and Google Assistant
Cons
- No USB input.
- You cannot adjust the volume from the device
Summary
The SONRU FT1007 is designed with the latest Bluetooth 5.0 chip, which guarantees both reliable and stable connections. The key feature here, aside from the Bluetooth connectivity, is there are 3 ways to play music – by Bluetooth, auxiliary, and micro SD card.
Buying Guide
If you want to buy an FM transmitter, you usually don’t have to dig too deep into your pocket. However, you need to carefully compare the different models and then decide which is the best FM transmitter for your needs. In addition, you need to know the features and criteria needed to consider before purchasing an FM transmitter. The following will guide you through the process.
The type of FM transmitter
There are two types of FM transmitters, which we will introduce to you in more detail below.
1. Mobile FM transmitter
Mobile FM transmitters are often equipped with a 12-volt plug so that you can plug this transmitter into a car cigarette lighter. However, some of these models are powered by batteries or rechargeable batteries. In this case, you can often charge the FM transmitter via a USB port. The portable FM transmitters are particularly suitable if you want to use the FM transmitter both for the car radio and for another radio.
Key advantages
- Mobile use
- You can often use the mobile FM transmitter to charge a smartphone or other device while using it
Main downside
- Annoying cables present
2. Built-in FM transmitter
Permanently installed FM transmitters normally get their energy from the car battery. These transmitters are usually installed between the car antenna and the antenna input. The control unit is attached to one point on the dashboard. If you have the necessary experience or knowledge, you can do the installation yourself. Otherwise, it is advisable to have the FM transmitter installed in a specialist workshop. This FM transmitter is suitable for you if you only want to use it in the car.
Key advantages
- No annoying cables are available
- Transmitter often takes up less space
Main downsides
- Not made for mobile use
- Installation is sometimes associated with additional costs
Transmission range
The frequency range is a very important factor. Because for the use of an FM transmitter, a free frequency that is not used is required. Particularly in regions with various radio stations, no free frequency may be available if the frequency range is low. Therefore the frequency spectrum should be as large as possible. A good FM transmitter should therefore offer a frequency range of 88.1 MHz to 107.9 MHz.
The transmission range is often limited to a few meters, so a constant connection is often only maintained at 4-14 meters without interruption. With the phase-locked loop (PLL technology), it is possible to select different FM transistors’ frequencies and use them within the bandwidth of 87.5 to 108 MHz. However, some inexpensive FM transmitters only have a fixed frequency.
The connection
Which connections the FM transmitter should have depends on which devices you want to connect to the transmitter. It makes a lot of sense if an FM transmitter can have a USB connection and SD card slot. With an FM transmitter USB connection, you can connect many different devices, such as navigation devices, tablet PCs or smartphones. It is advisable to choose a device with a mini-jack connection. If you only want to connect Apple products, a docking port may be sufficient.
You can also use this connection to connect with other Apple products. If you want to connect the FM transmitter to an SD card, you should ensure that you have an SD card slot or SD card reader. With such a connection, you don’t need an additional device to listen to music, just an SD card. In any case, you should make sure that the FM transmitter is equipped with the connections you need. For example, if you have a Samsung smartphone, you should select an FM transmitter to which you can connect this smartphone. On the other hand, if you have an iPhone, it is advisable to look for an FM transmitter with an FM transmitter iPhone connector.
With display or no display?
Many FM transmitters now have a modern display that shows the relevant information. The screen size is usually up to 2 inches. However, you can often also use an FM transmitter app to operate the transmitter. Such an FM transmitter app is usually available free of charge and can be easily installed on your smartphone or tablet PC. Ultimately, this allows you to operate the FM transmitter very easily.
The power supply
Many of the devices in this FM transmitter comparison are powered by a conventional 12-volt vehicle plug. The connection is made via the cigarette lighter. Some manufacturers operate their models with electricity using a battery or a rechargeable battery.
Tip: Inexpensive FM transmitters often do without a car plug and are charged with energy using the USB port.
Wireless connectivity
Some MP3 transmitters have a Bluetooth interface. Of course, you do not need an additional Bluetooth adapter to connect your device. The Bluetooth function can be useful if you want to be independent of the connection of the different smartphones and music players.
With the following overview, we would like to bring you closer to the advantages and disadvantages of the Bluetooth connection with FM transmitters:
Pros
- Easy setup
- Good transmission quality
- Wireless connection
Cons
- Uses more power than a wired connection
- Requires the compatible Bluetooth version of receiver and transmitter
Extra features
Many FM transmitters are equipped with remote control and a display. In addition, many other functions can be very useful, depending on the area of application. This includes, for example, the noise filter, which you can use to improve the quality. Because a noise filter can minimize unwanted or hidden interference. But the equalizer function is also beneficial if you want to adjust or improve the quality of the music. A transmission memory can be useful for this. This allows you to save the relevant station so that you do not have to set the FM transmitter correctly every time or find the right station again. Most FM transmitters are also equipped with a hands-free function.
Some FM transmitters display information about the music being played, such as the title and length of the music. Some FM transmitters can even send this data to the car radio via the Radio Data System (RDS). This enables you to read the information on the radio display.
Top FM Transmitters, Conclusion
Many people love to drive and improve the atmosphere by listening to music on the built-in radio. Since the music from the numerous radio stations can quickly lead to boredom, many people would like to fall back on their music requests from the iPod, Android smartphone, MP3 player or MP4 player. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to establish a connection with the smartphone, especially with older generation car radios.
In such cases, you need a device with which you can convert music files from MP3 players or iPhones into radio frequencies so that they can be received and played by the radio.
In this FM transmitter review, we introduced you to what you need to look out for when buying an FM transmitter. We also recommended 13 of the best FM transmitters to you. Now that we have made the choice easier for you, we hope you can find one that fits your needs and budget.