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The best FM transmitters for your car
FM transmitters allow you to connect your phone to your car even if you don’t have CarPlay or Android Auto. All you have to do is connect your phone to the transmitter via Bluetooth or an aux cable, tune your car radio to the FM station your transmitter is set to, and you’re good to go. You can also make and receive calls, and in some cases, even charge your phone. They’re affordable, as well as easy to install and use. Here are some of the best FM transmitters you can buy.
The best FM transmitters
Editor’s note: We will regularly update this list of the best FM transmitters as new devices launch.
Anker Roav SmartCharge T2
Anker is a top name in the mobile accessories game, and the Roav line of car products is no exception. The SmartCharge T2 locates empty FM frequencies with just the push of a button, while Bluetooth 5.0 keeps your phone securely connected. Better yet, the SmartCharge T2 uses Anker’s PowerIQ 3.0 to charge your device quickly from either a USB-C or a lightning port.
Imden FM Transmitter
Most FM transmitters on this list are either pretty large or have wires with extenders. Those who want something more compact and discrete can’t do much better than the Imden FM Transmitter. Buttons and connections are pretty packed, which might make it harder to use, but it will hide away easily and comes with plenty of features. These include a couple of USB ports, of which one supports QC 3.0. You can also plug in a USB flash drive to play music directly, make calls, and connect via Bluetooth. It’s also one of the most affordable options on this list.
Related: How to pick the right USB cable
Gooinng FM Transmitter
The Gooinng FM Transmitter has a significant benefit over other options in this list; the control module can be moved up for easier reach. It attaches to the AC vents, while the power unit connects to the power outlet in the car, usually located lower. It features a couple of chargers, one of which features QC3.0. Bluetooth 5.0 support means it can work with pretty much any device, and you even get cool lighting effects.
Nulaxy KM18 Color
The Nulaxy KM18 Color FM Transmitter is a complete solution for your in-car media and charging needs. It supports four audio inputs, including Bluetooth, AUX, and microSD cards. Its convenient interface and extended arm will also make it easy to operate on the go. It has a large 1.8-inch display for easy visualization, as well as large buttons and a comfortable volume knob. You can also use it to charge a couple of devices via USB, and one of them can juice up devices at QC3.0 speeds.
Nulaxy KM30
Do you need something better and like the Nulaxy brand? The Nulaxy KM30 is an advanced FM transmitter. It offers improved fast charging with a QC 3.0 USB-A outlet. It also has the added benefit of a raised call and volume button, as well as a plethora of media controls and audio enhancement options. Not to mention that huge microphone, which is meant to improve audio quality significantly. There’s support for Bluetooth 5.0, and a large screen for visualizing your media.
Jetech FM Transmitter
The Jetech FM Transmitter is a bit different from the previous options on the list in that it only supports devices that still have headphone jacks. Depending on your device, it’s a nice feature, but the Jetech sacrifices a few other handy features like automatic channel seeking. You’ll have to locate an idle channel and tune the transmitter and your car to match. On the bright side, the Jetech still offers charging capabilities from the outlet, and it’s easier to connect older devices like iPods and MP3 players.
Beinhome FM Transmitter
The other FM transmitters in the list are great, but they can be bulky and occupy car ports you may need for other things. The Beinhome FM Transmitter is tiny and connects directly to your AUX port. Just plug it into your phone and set an FM station! You can throw your phone back into your pocket afterward, or store it wherever you please.
Also read: The best phones with a headphone jack
Avantree CK310
None of the other best FM transmitters are genuinely portable. The Avantree CK310 has an integrated battery and can wirelessly connect to everything. Simply charge it via micro-USB, connect your phone to it via Bluetooth, and set the FM radio to the chosen station. No need for cigarette lighter plugs, wires, or anything else. It’s also small and discrete. The battery should last seven hours.
FAQs
Does it matter which FM station I use?
Ideally, you should set a frequency with no overlapping radio station in your area. If you use a local radio station’s frequency, you’ll run into problems with interference. Make sure you move away from local radio station frequencies as much as possible to avoid this.
Can I use FM transmitters on any car?
You should be able to, given that your car has all the needed ports. Some vehicles, while rare, don’t have the “cigarette lighter” ports anymore. Of course, you’ll also need an FM radio.
Can I use FM transmitters with any phone?
This one is more tricky! Some FM transmitters don’t use Bluetooth and stick with a 3.5mm audio jack alone. This will be a problem if your phone has no headphone jack, a common omittance in the smartphone world as of late. Ensure you get a Bluetooth-supported FM transmitter if you don’t have a phone with a headset jack.
That’s it for our list of best FM transmitters.