I have been a photographer for many years and so I spend a lot of time on the roads to go from one spot to another. I have the chance to move in with my beautiful Megane 3. The problem is that my car stereo is original is not the most modern. It allows me to play CDs, but it does not have a USB port. Listen to CDs, it’s going for 5 minutes.
But when you spend hours on the road every day, you quickly know all the songs by heart. Rather than trying to change my car, I tried to find a way to listen to all my music in my car. That’s when I discovered the Best Bluetooth FM transmitter that allows me to play my music from a USB key, SD card and even from my phone.
However, in front of the phenomenal amount of existing model, I must admit that I had a lot of difficulties before finding the model that suits me best. Between the small, economic in terms of space and the largest with many functions, difficult to navigate!
If you want to install the Best Bluetooth Car Stereo in your car you must read our great guide on that.
What is a Bluetooth FM transmitter?
Table of Contents
It is simply a small device with a male cigar lighter plug on one end that you plug directly into the cigarette lighter socket of your car. And on the other side of the transmitter, you have more or fewer ports. Whether USB ports, SD card slots, Jack jack. This allows you to connect different sources of audio file storage. These transmitters then connect to the car radio via unused FM frequencies.
These devices allow you to act as an intermediary between your storage devices and your car radio. Convenient if you have an old car stereo that does not have USB ports. You can listen to all your music from your phones,
To help you, I realized this site where I present you different models to guide you in your choice. There is also a buying guide allowing you to understand the different elements to take into account before you start your purchase.
FM Bluetooth Transmitter is the least expensive way to add Bluetooth audio to a car.
Why it is necessary Now a day
With the evolution of our vehicles that now have all kinds of equipment that we did not imagine a few years ago, it was obvious that the car radios will follow this logic. In parallel, the music industry has evolved greatly. This evolution has strongly influenced the way we consume this medium. At first, we just listened to what the radios were broadcasting. The appearance of cassettes and CDs have allowed us to have more freedom in the choice of music we listen to.
Subsequently, the music media was partly deported to our computers. It is unthinkable today to have all of our music on physical media. All music is now available for download. Computer technology is also evolving to offer storage devices that are always smaller in size but larger in storage capacity. As a result, most of our music storage devices can connect to our computers. One of the biggest innovations in this field is the USB standard. It has grown strongly to interconnect all devices with each other and enable fast and massive data and energy transfer.
But the appearance of USB technology in the music world has completely revolutionized our consumption. Today, we can store hundreds or even thousands of songs on a USB stick or SD card just a few centimeters. We can also have them on our phone that we now have 24 hours in our pockets. So we have all our music available and we can listen to it from anywhere.
Even if the car market follows this trend, we must admit that USB ports and Bluetooth have not been part of car radio standards for a long time. The proof with my Megane 3 2009, rather modern and yet only has a CD player. In addition, you do not change a car as frequently as you change phones or buy a USB key. As a result, we end up having thousands of music to listen to everywhere. Except in the car where we meet every day to go to work, do some shopping.
What is a good Bluetooth FM transmitter?
A good Bluetooth FM transmitter will allow you to link the various connected devices that you use (smartphone, USB key, SD card, tablet .) and the audio system of your car.
So you will be able to easily listen to your music, whether stored on your smartphone or listening via Spotify for example but also answer your phone call, without constraints using the Bluetooth function of the device that will be broadcast on a defined FM frequency for that device.
The installation is very simple since it will be enough to connect the Bluetooth transmitter to the cigarette lighter of your car and to choose a frequency of diffusion on the car radio. As we will see later, some models have a remote control that facilitates navigation between different music tracks, but also a screen to see the incoming numbers when calling or titles of songs broadcast.
These features will prove to be extremely practical if your car radio is only a CD player!
Best Bluetooth FM Transmitters 2024 | Comparison Table
Top 10 Picks | High Quality | Best Price
Best Bluetooth FM Transmitter 2024 Products Overview
1.Nulaxy: Best FM Transmitter for Car
The car radio has found good support with Bluetooth technology. This product has qualities of high-end products. Its functions are multiple. Its first use is listening to music via an iPod, a smartphone, By using the radio and speakers as relayers. Just connect the device to the cigarette lighter, search for or assign an FM frequency on the car stereo, then play the tracks via the Smartphone The speakers will do the rest.
This device can also read micro SD cards. For telephone conversations, the speaker’s voice will be amplified by the speakers. The driver equipped with a Bluetooth headset will be able to converse without a problem. The manufacturer has even provided a plug in case you need to recharge the battery.
The user interface of the Bluetooth Nulaxy FM transmitters has been designed to facilitate the operation and handling of the device. The latter is equipped with a control screen large enough to read information scrolling. Like the song titles, this screen is 1.44 inches. It also provides information on the condition of the car while using the device.
Battery and alternator status indications will indicate whether to stop or continue listening to music. Sometimes, when the kilometers are broken, the drivers carried away by the music forget that these devices consume energy. To avoid being caught off guard, the manufacturer has taken care to take precautions for the driver. For active men and women, however music lovers, this device can be useful in case of an emergency call from the office.
The Nulaxy Bluetooth FM Transmitter is capable of playing Mp3, .wma and Flac files. It’s already enough to read the majority of songs in sources like laptops and iPods. For compatibility, the device can adapt to all brands on the market provided the Bluetooth functionality. Just like the car radio that will serve as a relay.
The transmission range is 10 meters. Even if the driver comes out to open the trunk, the accessory works. Rough enough, the sound is all well compressed. The losses in the bass and treble are almost imperceptible. With this device, the brand has put a foot in the big leagues. Its very attractive price has convinced more than one.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YERDHriBfq8]- Battery level and alternator status information was a good idea to warn the driver during use.
- This is the best selling product
- Hands-free function for smartphones (Android, IOS)
- we have not found any negative point in this transmitter during testing
Bottom Line: The Nulaxy brand is becoming more and more recognized with these technology products at unbeatable prices without losing quality. Our verdict is final: 4.9 out of 5.
2. IMDEN: Best Sound Quality
Simple in terms of design and installation, this IMDEN brand FM Bluetooth transmitter stands out for its above-average sound quality.
It features HVAC technology, which allows you to cancel interference and suppress echo, giving the listener first-rate sound quality. It also reads MP3 and WMA formats and connects with most audio devices: smartphone, tablet or USB key up to 32GB. The reading is automatic for the USB keys and is done in the order in which the songs are arranged; you can not choose, but it is common on this type of device.
At the level of practicality, the call mode will be a plus for all those who want to phone while having a free hand. The sound is clear and you can pick up / hang up simply by pressing the button provided for this purpose.
Finally, this Fm Car Kit Transmitter has an Intelligent Dual USB Charger. One of the USB outputs is for external hard drives, the other will be used to charge your smartphone's battery. The 5V / 2.4A & 1A output offers optimized charging for fast charging of your devices.
Magnetic car mount: the transmitter comes with a magnetic car mount which has a solid rubber base and a magnetic head for holding smartphones. The mount head is made in four magnets to retain your phone stay securely when you are driving
- Wide choice of connectivity
- Hands-free function for smartphones/IOS
- Loading fast mobile devices via the dedicated USB output
- No SD-Card reader
Bottom Line: The IMDEN brand has a solid plastic body and we are positive about its durability and robustness. during our tests, we did not encounter any problems!. Our verdict is final: 4.9 out of 5.
3.Scosche
The Scosche SBTFM4-XCES0 Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter is an excellent solution for cars without built-in Bluetooth. It allows you to stream music and make hands-free calls via your car's FM radio, making it a safe and convenient tool for modern drivers.
With dual USB charging ports, the device ensures that your phone and other devices stay powered while you drive. The transmitter works seamlessly with iPhones, Samsung phones, and many other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The LED display and easy controls let you tune into the right frequency without distraction.
One of the standout features is its wide compatibility—from iPhones to Androids, MP3 players, and even micro SD cards, this transmitter covers all bases. The added bonus of lifetime tech support and a limited lifetime warranty makes it a reliable purchase for anyone looking to upgrade their car's audio experience.
Overall, this Bluetooth FM transmitter offers excellent value, easy connectivity, and multiple charging options for drivers seeking a hands-free, wireless car kit solution.
- Easy hands-free calling with built-in microphone.
- Dual USB ports for charging multiple devices.
- Wide compatibility with iPhones, Androids, and more.
- Crisp LED display for clear frequency visibility.
- Supports Micro SD cards and USB drives for music playback.
- Sound quality may vary depending on FM signal strength.
- No fast charging feature on the USB ports.
- May interfere with local radio stations in some areas.
Bottom Line: Overall, this Bluetooth FM transmitter offers excellent value, easy connectivity, and multiple charging options for drivers seeking a hands-free, wireless car kit solution.
4. Scosche BTFM9 : Best FM Transmitter for iphone
The Scosche BTFM9 Bluetooth FM Transmitter is a must-have gadget for those looking to add Bluetooth functionality to their cars. With dual 12W USB-A and USB-C ports, it offers fast charging for multiple devices while enabling wireless music streaming via Bluetooth.
The hands-free car kit allows for easy phone calls and supports voice commands through Siri and Google Assistant, making it a safer choice for drivers. The 12V cigarette lighter adapter ensures the device is always powered, and the transmitter works seamlessly with most smartphones and mobile devices.
With its universal compatibility and ease of use, this Bluetooth FM transmitter stands out as a convenient solution for integrating modern tech into older cars.
- Dual USB-C and USB-A ports for fast charging.
- Supports Siri and Google Assistant voice commands.
- Universal compatibility with most smartphones and devices.
- Easy hands-free calling with built-in microphone.
- Clear sound quality for wireless music streaming.
- Sound quality depends on FM signal strength.
- May cause slight interference with local radio stations.
- Doesn’t support USB-C fast charging beyond 12W.
Bottom Line: The Scosche BTFM9 Bluetooth FM Transmitter is a versatile and user-friendly solution for adding Bluetooth functionality to older cars. With fast charging, hands-free calling, and voice command support, it offers great convenience and safety for drivers. While the sound quality may vary depending on FM signal strength, its wide compatibility and practical features make it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable Bluetooth car adapter.
5.Scosche BTFM2A : Best Wireless Bluetooth FM Transmitter for Android
The Scosche BTFM2A BTFREQ Universal Bluetooth Hands-Free Car Kit is an excellent solution for adding Bluetooth capabilities to older vehicles. It allows for hands-free calling and wireless music streaming from your smartphone to your car's FM radio. This makes it convenient for drivers who want to stay connected safely while driving.
One of its standout features is the flexible neck design, which lets you adjust the LCD screen for easy viewing. It also includes a 10-watt USB charger, so your devices stay powered during your drive. The built-in controls for volume, play/pause, and call management add to its ease of use.
The DSP echo cancellation ensures clear conversations, even in noisy environments, making hands-free calling stress-free.
- Hands-free calling with built-in echo cancellation.
- Flexible neck for easy LCD screen positioning.
- 10-watt USB charger to power devices while driving.
- Wireless music streaming to car FM stereo.
- Easy-to-use built-in controls for volume and calls.
- FM signal strength can affect audio quality.
- No support for USB-C charging.
- Might experience interference with local FM stations.
Bottom Line: The Scosche BTFM2A BTFREQ is a practical and affordable way to integrate Bluetooth into your car for hands-free calls and music streaming. With its flexible design and convenient features, it's perfect for enhancing your driving experience, especially in older vehicles.
6.JETech:
With regard to FM transmitters, there is no huge price difference between top-of-the-line and budget. In fact, it can only happen for a few dollars. But the JETech wireless transmitter will save you a few dollars while continuing its work. To use it, simply connect your device via its 3.5mm headphone jack, set it to a random FM channel and listen to your radio on this channel. (Remember that it will not work with an iPhone 7, which hosts the headphone jack).
The transmitter has an easy-to-read display with intuitive buttons to adjust the frequency. It also comes with an extra USB port, so you can charge devices while driving. For best performance, we recommend using lower channels in the 80s and 90s.
- It comes with a high-contrast and highly visible display.
- It tunes easily.
- No hands free calling
Bottom Line: Keep in mind that since a wired connection is required, the product is not compatible with smartphones that do not have a headphone jack. Our verdict is final: 4.5 out of 5.
7. LDesign
Looking for a unique style and design that lives up to Apple products? The LDesign comes in a variety of colors and has the shape of an L. It is only 4.9 x 1.5 x 3.8 inches, so it's small enough to fit in your front pocket. It comes with HI-FI stereo sound quality with echo cancellation and noise cancellation (CVC) technology. This means that you can take a call with its built-in microphone and enjoy your Wireless Music Streaming at a lowered volume without superimposed audio interference.
In addition to its wireless capabilities, the device offers a TF card and auxiliary input, so you can play music in your favorite method. It also comes with a USB 5V 2.5A for fast charging. Buyers encourage it for their design and ease of installation, while more critical critics say it is subject to noise interference if your phone is not positioned nearby.
Its memory function will remember the device once connected for first time, It will automatically recognized from second time.
- Latest bluetooth version
- Very modern design
- Extremely perfect music streaming
- No SD card reader
Bottom Line: Our verdict is final: 4.5 out of 5.
8. LIHAN
If you are looking for quality, you should turn to this transmitter. All ready for the quality of the transmitted sound and that of the microphone, then for its compact and elegant design easy to carry.
The LIHAN transmitter uses the latest technology to provide more stable FM signals with anti-interference and noise reduction functions. The hands-free kit is also of very good quality thanks to a high-performance microphone that incorporates anti-echo and noise suppression (HVAC) technology. A multifunction button allows you to manage calls to answer/suspend/reject or call back while driving.
Another advantage that you find on this Bluetooth transmitter is that it has 2 USB ports including one with Quick Charge technology that automatically adjusts its voltage ( 5V / 3A, 9V / 2A, 12V / 1A) and allows charging up to 4 times faster than a conventional USB port. This feature is very convenient for charging a recent device very quickly (smartphone, tablet) compatible with Quick Charge technology (1.0, 2.0 and 3.0).
Unlike most transmitters, the device has only two sources for playing music in MP3 and WAV format, either via Bluetooth or USB. This is not really a problem for most users who generally favor the use of Bluetooth and never use the AUX jack or TF cards to play their music.
- Compact and elegant design with aluminum alloy
- Very good sound quality
- High quality handsfree function with noise reduction and easy to use thanks to the multifunction button
- Has a USB port Quick Charge 3.0
- Excellent quality-price ratio and 24 months warranty
Bottom Line: Our verdict is final: 4.8 out of 5.
9. Scosche FMT4R : Bluetooth FM Transmitter
The Scosche FMT4R FM Transmitter is a straightforward and affordable option for adding wireless audio capabilities to your vehicle. With 20 frequency selections, it allows you to connect your device to your car's stereo system via FM transmission. This makes it an excellent choice for older cars without Bluetooth or AUX input.
Its simple design ensures easy setup, and it works with most devices that have a 3.5mm headphone jack, like smartphones, MP3 players, and more. The transmitter connects to your car’s 12V cigarette lighter, providing consistent power for long trips.
While it lacks advanced features like hands-free calling or USB charging, the Scosche FMT4R offers a reliable solution for streaming music and audio wirelessly through your car speakers.
- 20 FM frequencies to avoid interference.
- Easy plug-and-play setup for fast use.
- Compatible with most devices via 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Affordable solution for wireless audio streaming.
- Compact and portable design.
- No Bluetooth or hands-free calling functionality.
- Sound quality may depend on FM signal strength.
- Lacks USB charging ports.
Bottom Line: The Scosche FMT4R FM Transmitter is an inexpensive and reliable option for streaming audio wirelessly in older vehicles. With its 20 frequency selections and ease of use, it's perfect for drivers who want a simple and effective way to connect their devices to their car's stereo system.
How to Choose the Best Bluetooth FM Transmitter in 2024| Buying Guide
If you are going to buy a Bluetooth Fm transmitter, it is important that you know where your attention should go. Here we have a list of the essentials for choosing the best Bluetooth FM transmitter for you.
Utilisation facility
The ease of use combines ease of installation of your device and simplicity of handling when it is running.
The most important is that it is easy to connect. The standard steps for installing the best Fm Bluetooth transmitters are: plugging into the cigarette lighter / choosing a free Fm frequency from your car stereo / Bluetooth connection via the playback device where the files are located musical.
In addition, it is vital that the Fm Bluetooth transmitter is easy to handle once in action. Being able to change the music, change the volume, answer the phone at the touch of a button are all essential assets to allow the user to have hands free while driving.
The screen takes an important place in the ease of use of this accessory. The best Bluetooth FM Transmitter will have a readable screen, wide enough and well lit to allow you to see at a glance the information transmitted (the title of the music broadcast, the battery level of the car, the number phone that calls you).
Sound Quality
It can vary greatly depending on the model. But if you buy an FM transmitter, it's good to enjoy your music in the best way. That's why the quality of the sound must be irreproachable.
Also, beware of supported audio standards: the minimum is MP3 and WMA.
You can focus on models that benefit from HVAC technology. This innovation minimizes crackling, external disturbances due to electromagnetic fields and echo.
If it's really good for listening to music, it's even more important if you use your Bluetooth FM transmitter to make calls. In hands-free mode, your calls will be clear and clear, and the little disruption that will pass will not interfere with the discussion.
It should be noted that crackles and FM interference are fairly common depending on the transmitter model chosen. As much opt for the best Bluetooth FM transmitter from the start to avoid these inconveniences.
Connectivity
The best Bluetooth FM transmitter must be compatible with the largest number of audio devices and car radios. If the best performing models will have no trouble adjusting to iPhone, Samsung, Xperia or most major brands, it is important to find out if you use a less known brand phone.
We also sometimes have trouble connecting with some cigarette lighter, so be careful depending on the model of car you own.
In terms of connectivity, it is nice to have the possibility to connect your Bluetooth FM transmitter via a 3.5mm jack cable, directly on a device. Moreover, according to your needs, check the connectivity with the different media: SD card, USB Hard Disk, tablets
Some Bluetooth FM transmitter models have several USB ports, but that does not necessarily mean that you can plug in devices to read the content. Sometimes it's just USB output to charge your devices.
Style & Design
The metal models will be stronger than models made of plastic; on the other hand, certain forms will make them simpler to fix and orient. This is the case, for example, Bluetooth transmitters with a tube at the base, which allows them to simply turn in the desired direction. This is particularly useful when there is sunlight on the screen. You will not see anything and this type of model will allow you to change the orientation of the screen.
Even if the weight or shape is not of great importance, it is good to be able to wear and store the device simply. In general, ergonomics is quite well thought out.
An anti-noise filter
One of the differences you may notice when listening to your transmitter compared to a regular radio station is more pronounced background noise. This should not be the case if you choose a model with an HVAC noise filter function. Make sure that the device filters noise (HVAC technology) effectively by looking at the technical specifications and reading customer reviews and that it can operate as close to the radio as you like.
The Price
An FM Bluetooth transmitter rarely costs more than 20 euros. The prices are quite homogeneous, with an average of between 15 and 20 dollars. Therefore, this is not a decisive element and we advise you to base yourself on all of the above criteria rather than saving a few dollars.
How Bluetooth FM transmitter works?
To use FM transmitter you generally just plugged into the cigarette lighter of the car. It must be admitted, the latter does not serve us much anymore. This provides the power supply necessary for the transmitter to function properly and for devices that are physically connected to it. These devices emit basic radio waves to connect to your car radio. Simply find an FM frequency not used by your car radio and select the same on the transmitter.
There are many possibilities for connecting to peripherals:
- We find the classic USB ports present on most of our devices today. This system allows both the transfer of data and energy to different degrees depending on the devices and transmitters used. The current standards of this system allow of course the transfer of data at very high speed. For example, you can transfer movies or photos in seconds. So, there is really no problem to transfer music. These ports also allow you to use and charge your smartphones and tablets. Provided, of course, that the voltage of the USB ports of the transmitter used to allow.
- There are also TF card ports for reading SD cards. These are now present in all our phones and cameras to store our voluminous photos and high definition videos. They, therefore, make it possible to store large quantities of music. Today there is almost no limit to the capacity of these small cards. They can carry 128 GB of data and more! On the other hand, most of the transmitters that I could test did not support SD cards beyond 32 GB. The data transmission is as effective as on a USB port for the most recent models.
- And of course, completely dematerialized connections thanks to Bluetooth. Attention, this type of connection does not allow the transfer of energy! It will even increase the consumption of devices using it. It allows you to transfer music of high quality and without any connection! In its most recent standards, Bluetooth optimizes the power consumption of devices allowing them to operate longer. However, data transfer is much less efficient than with USB or SD ports. With fairly good quality equipment using the Bluetooth 4.1 standard, the restitution is very good. But if you use FM devices or transmitters that use older standards, you may experience some crackling during use.
- There is sometimes the possibility of plugging a Jackon the transmitters. On these devices, Jacks can be used in two different ways. You can use it to connect older devices that do not have a USB port or Bluetooth. I’m thinking in particular of our good old MP3 players. You can also connect your smartphone or tablet directly via the jack. This can be useful in case you do not have USB ports available. But the most interesting use of this port Jack is to use it to connect directly to your car radio. The advantage is that you can enjoy a perfect sound reproduction. When connected via FM waves, the risk of a drop in quality or crackling is very present.
- Once connected to both your car stereo and your peripherals containing your music, the FM transmitter acts as an intermediary. It allows you to listen to your music and navigate between them as if you had these ports on your car radio. And if you have a Bluetooth-connected phone, you can also receive your calls directly on your car’s speakers. In some cases, the transmitters are equipped with microphones. You can call without having to take your phone out of your pocket.
Best Bluetooth FM Transmitter FAQs
How can I make a Bluetooth FM transmitter at home?
You can build a Bluetooth FM transmitter from an old Bluetooth headset. It is a little complicated process, and I recommend you buy directly from the market (Amazon, Walmart, or BestBuy).
Who makes the best FM transmitter?
Many brands are available on the market like Ldesign, Aphaca, Blackweb, and Premier IMDEN, but the most trusted one is Nuluxy.
Why won’t my FM transmitter work?
It could be due to various factors such as interference, low power, or incorrect frequency selection.
How to clean a Bluetooth FM transmitter?
To clean it, use a soft, dry cloth. Do not use corrosive or abrasive products.
What is the best FM frequency for a car Bluetooth FM transmitter?
Many apps are available to find the best frequencies for FM transmitters, such as Clear FM for iPhone and Car Home Ultra for Android.
Conclusion:
Now that you know everything about these handy little devices, you can now buy the Best Bluetooth FM Transmitter!
Depending on your use and the devices to connect your own, make your choice. The top remains a model that allows you to play your music from your phone, your tablet, an SD card, and your USB key. But if you do not have all this, then opt for a simpler version!
Ditto for your use in the hands-free kit of the device, it is very handy that allows driving while phoning without danger. If you often use this function, the sound quality and the clarity of the calls are of paramount importance!
Enjoy your favorite music in the car, buying the best Bluetooth FM Transmitter!