Music can make even the most boring and mundane tasks more fun. Whether you’re letting your hair down on a road trip or trying to get through the dreaded commute to work, a good playlist can instantly brighten up your mood! If music is life to you, maybe you’ve considered buying an FM car transmitter?
If your current car is older than you are then it may not have any wireless connectivity. This means you won’t be able to stream your favorite tunes. You’d have to make do with boring radio stations where they seem to play more adverts than actual music.
However, that’s where car FM transmitters come in to save the day! These clever devices allow you to connect your smartphone to your stereo without using annoying cables. More and more people are turning to FM transmitters, and if you’re an audiophile, they’re a must-have item!
In this guide, we’ve got our top 10 best transmitters for you to have a look through. We’ve also taken the hard work out of buying one by putting together a buyers guide, complete with FAQs to answer any questions you may have. So if you want to find out more, be sure to carry on reading!
The Best FM Transmitter for Car of 2021
1. LDesign Bluetooth FM Transmitter
Description
First up on our list of the best FM transmitters is this one from LDesign. Featuring advanced 5.0 Bluetooth technology, it’s compatible with most devices. Incredibly versatile, this FM transmitter lets you do everything from streaming your favorite tracks to answering and making calls, completely hands-free.
Super compact, it fits easily into the cigarette lighter in your car, and the clever CVC technology blocks out any wind or other bothersome noises, so you get nothing but superior sound quality. Despite its mini size, you can clearly read the information on the screen such as phone numbers, volume levels, and your favorite song titles.
The built-in microphone means you can make hands free calls for safer driving. It’s super easy to fit into your car and it will work with many different vehicle makes. If you’re looking for a simple and straightforward Bluetooth FM transmitter, then this is the one for you.
Pros
- Compact design that’s easy to use
- 5.0 Bluetooth technology
- CVC technology to reduce noise
- Easy to install
- Built-in microphone for hands-free calling
Cons
- Basic design
2. Clydek Car FM Transmitter
Description
Next up we have this device from Clydek. An updated design with Bluetooth 5.0 for better transmission and more stable connections. As with most other FM transmitters, it works by being plugged into your cigarette lighter. Immerse yourself in good music with its three different playing modes that all provide clear sound.
Have a safer drive thanks to the hands-free function, simply press the middle button to answer and hang up. It even automatically redials any missed calls for you. This FM Bluetooth transmitter is so cheap, you can’t afford to miss this one!
It features everything you need for an upgraded road trip, including voice navigation and voltage protection. It even displays the battery voltage so you can keep an eye on the condition of your battery. You can also enjoy the noise-canceling CVC technology, for uninterrupted listening.
Pros
- Advanced Bluetooth technology
- Three playing modes
- Hands-free functionality for safer driving
- Voltage protection
- CVC technology
Cons
- Can’t be auto-tuned
3. Nulaxy NX12
Description
Enjoy deep bass sound with this amazing little Bluetooth FM Transmitter. Make hands-free calls with no disturbances thanks to the noise-canceling CVC technology. There’s just one button to answer or end calls and you can easily switch between calls and music.
Advanced Bluetooth 5.0 means you get a super quick and stable connection and you can use Siri or Google Assistant to make calls, send messages or ask for directions, all of which make for a safer journey.
Safety features include voltage protection, temperature control, and short circuit protection, to avoid possible dangers and overheating. Dual charging ports ensure a super quick charge and it’s compatible with most Android and iOS devices. Your purchase will also come complete with an 18-month warranty, for a worry-free purchase!
Pros
- Excellent audio quality
- Make phone calls hands-free
- Easy to use
- Bluetooth technology
- Safety features to check the condition of your car battery
- Siri and Google Assistant access
Cons
- More premium models available
4. Sumind Bluetooth FM Transmitter
Description
Combining a 1.7 inch LCD screen and a 270-degree gooseneck, this is a must-have accessory for your car! View important information such as incoming calls, the car battery level, and which song is currently playing. The flexible gooseneck gives you excellent viewing comfort. Has a magnetic plate that grips your cell phone for security while you’re driving.
The energy-efficient Bluetooth 4.2 offers a stable connection and clear, crisp sound quality. Easy to use, the HD display makes operating it straightforward and hassle-free. The dual USB ports mean you can charge two devices at the same time and it’s compatible with all smartphone and iOS devices. In just 35 minutes you get an 80 percent charge!
Features intuitive controls; buttons for skipping tracks and for volume control. The clever CVC technology ensures you get great sound and the built-in microphone makes hands-free calling easy and straightforward.
Pros
- Adjustable gooseneck for comfortable viewing
- Magnetic plates for superior grip
- Dual USB ports
- CVC technology to reduce noise
- Fast charging makes it ultra-convenient
Cons
- Only limited availability
5. Virfine FM Transmitter
Description
Our next best FM transmitter pick is this model from Virfine. It may be small, but this mini device packs a real punch. It features advanced Bluetooth 5.0 technology, meaning you get a fast connection and better stability than lower quality transmitters on the market.
Another feature that puts this transmitter ahead of the rest is its Siri and Google Assistant access. This makes hands-free calling even easier, just tell your phone who to call and you’re all set. If you’re looking for clever technology that will instantly upgrade your car, this is the one for you.
Easy to use, ultra-compact, and budget-friendly, the Virfine FM transmitter has it all! The built-in microphone and CVC noise-cancelation technology also ensure you get crystal clear phone calls. Dual USB ports mean you can charge and play music at the same time.
Pros
- Small and subtle design
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Fast and stable connection
- Voice activation function
- Super affordable
- Hands-free functionality
Cons
- Buttons are a little small
6. Tecboss TB27
Check it out on Amazon
Description
The best FM car transmitter will offer functionality and convenience, and this one certainly does. Enjoy a stable and strong connection thanks to the Bluetooth 5.0 and the Tecboss noise-canceling technology blocks noise from the road, giving you super clear sound quality.
For easy and convenient hands-free calls, this device attaches easily to your air vents or dashboard. Featuring seven LED color display functions, this is a cool feature to brighten up the interior of your car. A super-sensitive microphone ensures your phone calls will be clear and the dual charge ports make charging it super easy.
Access to Siri and Google Assistant will revolutionize your phone calls and the safety features ensure that the internal components won’t overheat.
Pros
- Advanced Bluetooth technology
- Noise-cancelation technology
- Easily attaches to your dashboard for extra convenience
- Cool LED lighting display
- Siri and Google Assistant functionality
Cons
- Tends to sell out quickly
7. Anker Roav Bluetooth FM Transmitter
Description
FM transmitters should instantly upgrade your car, whatever its make or year of manufacture. This model definitely will. Thanks to the new and updated Bluetooth 5.0, you can enjoy uninterrupted phone calls with clear sound. The intelligent automatic scanner will find FM frequencies for you at the touch of a button.
With PowerIQ 3.0 you’ll get fast charging for your devices while you’re driving and the new and improved noise-cancelation technology reduces static and other disturbances. The FM transmission means a strong and steady connection between your stereo and your Android or iOS device.
To answer your phone calls, simply press the center button, this makes your journey even safer and offers the ultimate convenience. Incredibly easy to use, it’s perfect for any audiophile whether you’re new to this technology or you’re a seasoned user.
Pros
- Easy and simple to use
- Advanced Bluetooth technology
- The single-button function makes your journey safer
- New and improved noise-reducing technology
Cons
- Doesn’t have a voice activation function
8. Ainope Bluetooth FM Transmitter
Description
When you’re looking for the best car FM transmitters, you may find that some of them are a bit basic. They seem to just plug into your cigarette lighter and that’s it. They don’t offer any other features or functions that will upgrade your car and give you a better music and driving experience.
That’s where this clever Bluetooth FM Transmitter comes in. Its advanced Bluetooth 5.0 technology promises to pair to your device in seconds and gives you a strong and secure connection. A 30 percent reduction in delays and signal problems mean no more annoying pauses and music skips.
The CVC function reduces noises that could ruin your listening pleasure and will ensure that you get clear phone calls. The Ainope Bluetooth FM Transmitter can charge two devices at the same time, quickly! The unique LED backlight function brightens up your journey and it also displays voltage levels so you can see what kind of condition your battery is in.
Pros
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Cool LED light displays
- Reduces music delays and skips
- CVC technology for less noise interruption
- Quick charging
Cons
- No other color options
9. Zeeporte Car FM Transmitter
Check it out on Amazon
Description
Do you want to jazz up the interior of your car? If you’re looking for something a bit different, why not consider this transmitter from Zeeporte? Its LED display feature is super cool and will make you the envy of your friends! With 10 different colors to choose from, you can pick one to match your mood.
If you want to be able to charge your cell really quickly, then you’ll love the 3.0 USB charging ports. You can even charge two phones at the same time! Want a clear and stable connection? You can with this transmitter’s Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, no more bad quality signals!
The sensitive microphone and CVC technology ensure ultra-clear calls, no more shouting down the phone to be heard! Also features voice navigation for extra convenience. Five streaming modes including normal, classic, and jazz for excellent sound quality, enjoy your favorite music without interruptions!
Pros
- Cool and unique LED light function
- Quick charging QC 3.0 USB ports
- Microphone and noise-canceling technology
- Multiple streaming modes
- Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
- Doesn’t display lots of information on the screen
10. Gogroove Flexsmart X2
Check it out on Amazon
Description
The last model on our list of the top 10 best FM car transmitters is this one from Gogroove. If you’re someone who likes things kept simple and straightforward, then you’ll love the easy set up of this device. Simply connect it to your Android or iOS and enjoy your music experience.
The ingenious hands-free technology allows you to make and receive calls while you’re out and about. If you receive a call while you’re blasting your favorite tunes, the music will simply fade out so you can answer the call. You can also enjoy the microphone that will provide a super clear sound!
The Gogroove X2 promises to be one of the best Bluetooth FM transmitters on the market today! The smart and compact design will match any interior and the bendy neck ensures better viewing comfort.
This model also features Multipoint Bluetooth functionality. This means you can pair two different devices at the same time. Answer calls and stream music simultaneously! You also get an impressive three-year warranty with this purchase!
Pros
- Easy and simple to use
- Intelligent technology for hands-free calls
- Flexible neck for a universal fit
- Can pair two devices together
- Stream music in high-quality sound
Cons
- Limited shipping options
Buyers Guide: Things to look for when buying an FM transmitter for a car
Selection of frequency
In order to play your music, you need to connect to the right channel. To do this, the FM transmitter needs to choose from multiple frequencies. Unfortunately, some very basic models rely on you to manually search for one that isn’t being used by a nearby radio station.
Another problem with cheap and low-quality Bluetooth FM transmitters is that they will connect with frequencies that other sources are already using. The result is a lot of noise and distortion, which is incredibly annoying. Not only that, but you’ll then be more inclined to try and connect to a new frequency. If you’re driving while you do this, then it takes your focus off the road and becomes dangerous.
When you’re looking for your new car FM transmitter, look for one with a broad range of frequencies, this means you have more chance of connecting to a free one, resulting in fewer disturbances and more music time! Higher quality Bluetooth transmitters perform automatic frequency scans, so you don’t have to do a thing!
USB ports
Another important consideration is the USB ports. If you want to charge your phone or other devices while you’re on the go, then a USB port is essential. The majority of Bluetooth FM transmitters have one port but larger models sometimes offer two. The Sumind transmitter offers two ports and its multiple extra features make it a great choice.
Do bear in mind that the type of USB ports a transmitter has is important too. If you want to fast charge your devices then look for USB 3.0 and above. As well as that, a good signal is essential when choosing the best FM transmitters. Without a stable signal, the sound will be low quality and you could end up with lots of static. That’s the whole point of a Bluetooth transmitter and bad sound means you’ve just wasted your hard-earned money.
Your chosen model should also be compatible with a variety of devices. Most of them do have this capability, however before you settle on buying, double-check you can connect your device to it. You don’t want to get into your car only to find it won’t pair up with your cell phone!
Audio Quality
This is probably the most important function to look for when shopping for the best FM transmitter. Without good sound quality, your tool is pretty useless since this is the main function. Although the quality of the sound also depends on the speakers in your car, a good FM transmitter will improve the audio substantially.
It’s a good idea to look for a transmitter with more advanced Bluetooth technology, such as 5.0 rather than 4.2. This will mean you get a more stable and strong connection and fewer disturbances. Luckily, most of the best FM transmitters on our list offer this function.
Your tool should also be easy to use as well. Since you’ll be using it for driving, it’s essential that it’s straightforward and user friendly so you don’t spend time being distracted or with your eyes off the road. The best FM transmitters only have one or two buttons that operate it, making them safer to use.
If your chosen transmitter has multiple buttons you need to be 100 percent sure you’re confident in using them, to avoid distractions. Setting up your FM transmitter should also be simple and easy. The Tecboss TB27 adapter attaches to your dashboard for better viewing and convenience. The Sumind transmitter boasts an adjustable gooseneck design, to make viewing the screen a breeze!
It’s also a good idea to check out which buttons the transmitter has, does it have a special power on/off button or do you just unplug it? It’s worth being in the know about things like that so you don’t accidentally drain your car battery!
FAQs
1 . Which is the best FM transmitter for car?
This all depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you want a transmitter with all of the latest bells and whistles, then the Tecboss TB27 is a perfect choice! From its advanced Bluetooth connectivity, voice activation technology, and the ability to conveniently attach to your dashboard, we think it’s a winner!
Another great option is this one from Virfine. Don’t let its size fool you, this device is packed with loads of awesome features, all designed to make your car journey more pleasant. Including Bluetooth 5.0 for stable syncing and CVC technology to block any unwanted noise, this is a great option if you’re on a budget but still want a high-quality tool.
2 . Do FM transmitters work in all cars?
As long as your car has a cigarette lighter and radio, you can be sure that any Bluetooth FM transmitter will work, no matter how old it is. If your car is old enough to not have Bluetooth connectivity, an FM transmitter can transform your listening experience and you’ll have tons more freedom when it comes to music choice.
Bluetooth FM transmitters are not made to specifically fit particular car makes, so they’re an easy way to instantly upgrade your vehicle. Even better, if you have in-car Wi-Fi you can connect to a streaming service and have unlimited music and podcast listening!
3 . What is an FM transmitter for car?
Simply put, an FM car transmitter is a clever invention that allows you to play music through the radio that has an FM band. This is usually a stereo. Because the transmitter isn’t physically connected to the radio, you won’t need an aux cable or any other cords.
Thanks to Bluetooth connectivity, you can sync it with your phone and play music directly from your device to the car radio. Most Bluetooth FM transmitters have screens to display various bits of information, such as which song is currently playing, any incoming or missed calls you have, and even the condition of your car battery!
