Not everyone can afford a car with all the latest technology, and that’s okay! If you are tired of dealing with aux cables and want hands-free calling and crystal clear music streaming, a great Bluetooth adapter is all you need.
Although Bluetooth technology has been around for over 20 years, many people have yet to experience the simplicity and functionality that makes this technology so wonderful. Thankfully, the latest Bluetooth 5.0 car adapters are so inexpensive and easy to use that there’s often no reason not to upgrade. We made this guide to showcase the best Bluetooth adapters on the market so that you can find the perfect one for your vehicle.
Shopping for a Bluetooth Car Adapter
While searching for your ideal Bluetooth device, consider these key factors:
- Compatibility: There are two main types of car Bluetooth adapters; devices that plug directly into your car’s aux jack and ones that power up via a 12V socket and play music using the FM radio. Many prefer the aux jack approach since this usually leads to clearer sound with less radio distortion. It also allows you to drive long distances without having to set the device to a new radio station. Some Bluetooth adapters offer both functions, giving you even more options for using your new device.
- Charging Functionality: Since your new Bluetooth adapter may occupy your 12V socket most of the time, it is imperative that it still allows you to charge your devices. Look for a model that offers USB Quick Charge 3.0 technology or a USB-C port to ensure your devices can get charged as quickly as possible.
- Bluetooth Quality: The sound quality of your calls, music, and podcasts is naturally another huge consideration. Thankfully, adapters utilizing Bluetooth 5.0 technology will benefit from the best performance Bluetooth has to offer in terms of sound and connection quality. However, be wary of older devices using antiquated Bluetooth standards as this can lead to sub-par audio and occasional loss of your Bluetooth connection.
Top Pick: Nulaxy Wireless In-Car Bluetooth Adapter
Featuring crystal clear sound quality and stellar noise cancellation, the Nulaxy Wireless In-Car Bluetooth Adapter is our top pick for your car’s Bluetooth adapter needs. This device features a flexible gooseneck that ensures its 1.44-inch LCD and simple push-button interface are ideally positioned so that you can keep your attention on the road. It also auto-connects to your phone via Bluetooth for added simplicity and allows you to charge up on the go, thanks to its built-in USB charging port. This is also one of the most straightforward and easy-to-use Bluetooth adapters out there. It even includes an aux jack so that you can choose between its aux or FM Bluetooth functionality.
Best Aux Adapter: Comsoon Bluetooth 5.0 Receiver
If you are looking for an adapter that plugs directly into your car’s aux jack and won’t take up too much space, this Bluetooth receiver from Comsoon is for you. This adapter leaves little to be desired in terms of functionality with its stable Bluetooth 5.0 connection and excellent sound quality with minimal distortion. In fact, it can also be plugged into speakers, stereos, and even headphones so that you can listen to streamed music via Bluetooth wherever you go. Although this device is battery powered, its 16-hour lifespan and ability to charge while in use will ensure it is ready to provide the tunes in your car anytime you need it.
Best Features: Nulaxy Bluetooth FM Transmitter
Thanks to its ability to play audio tracks via Bluetooth, USB flash drive, and MicroSD, this Bluetooth transmitter is one of the most versatile options around. It’s also a great choice for audiophiles since it can play a number of audio file formats (such as FLAC and APE) with superior quality compared to anything Apple Music or Spotify have to offer. Despite this, it is a Bluetooth device at heart, and its Bluetooth functionality performs flawlessly. The fact that it also delivers USB Quick Charge 3.0 technology so that you can charge your phone while listening to your favorite podcast is icing on the cake. At this low price, it’s hard to ask for anything more.
Best USB-C Friendly: IMDEN Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter
For some, a Bluetooth adapter that lacks USB-C connectivity is an automatic deal-breaker. Luckily, the IMDEN Bluetooth 5.0 FM Transmitter offers not only an 18W USB-C connection but USB Quick Charge 3.0 technology. Setting aside its stunning Bluetooth streaming quality, this adapter sports nifty preset equalizer effects that can improve the feel of your music at the press of a button. If you are looking for an adapter that can charge two devices at once while it plays your favorite tunes, look no further.
Also Consider: Esky Bluetooth Receiver for Car
Rounding out our guide is the Esky Bluetooth Receiver. This low-profile Bluetooth adapter plugs directly into your car’s aux jack and can play 15 hours of music on a single charge. It sports a unique design that allows it to plug directly into a 12V charging adapter while still affording you two 4.8A USB ports to charge other devices. This adapter also scores points for its connection speed and great sound quality. If you are searching for an aux Bluetooth adapter that is cable and wire-free but can be plugged into anything with an aux jack for instant Bluetooth functionality, this is definitely one to consider.
