The purpose of a FM transmitter is to broadcast a signal from a portable device such as a smartphone to a stereo system. Most FM transmitters feature Bluetooth that enables a wireless connection to your audio device without needing an aux cable.
The best Bluetooth FM transmitter is the Nulaxy KM29, which has a 1.8 inch color display and four different inputs for streaming your own music.
Popularity of FM transmitters has seen a large increase as people simply want to listen to their own music as opposed to the radio. Without a compatible Bluetooth, AUX, USB or TF card stereo, this hasn’t been possible without the use of a transmitter.
Table of Contents
FM Transmitter Comparison
| FM Transmitter | Design | Frequency Range |
|---|---|---|
| Nulaxy KM29 | Gooseneck | 87.5 - 108.0 |
| VicTsing | Gooseneck | 87.5 - 108.0 |
| ZINTOU BC32RC | Fixed | 76.0 - 108.0 |
| TECBOSS Bass | Fixed & Compact | 87.5 - 108.0 |
| SCOSCHE Car Kit | Fixed & Compact | 87.5 - 108.0 |
| TecTri Car Kit | Power Cord | 87.5 - 108.0 |
| GOgroove FlexSMART | Gooseneck | 88.1 - 107.9 |
| VicTsing QC30 | Fixed & Compact | 87.5 - 108.0 |
| ZEEPORTE 7 LED | Fixed & Compact | 88.1 - 107.9 |
| Waulnpekq Adapter | Fixed & Compact | 87.5 - 108.0 |
Using a FM transmitter instead of installing a new head unit is a more cost effective solution of obtaining Bluetooth functionality. It also works with the majority of smartphones regardless of the operating system they use.
It may be tempting to go for a cheap option but spending slightly more provides you with better sound quality and many additional features.
Below is a list of the best FM transmitters that provide superior performance and comes packed with features such as Bluetooth handsfree calling.
The Best FM Transmitter
1. Nulaxy KM29 Bluetooth FM Transmitter
Nulaxy are by far the most popular FM transmitter manufacturer and produce a variety of different models. The KM29 is their new and improved model that features a 1.8 inch color screen for more user friendly experience and clearer feedback from the device.
The FM transmitter also has dual USB ports, micro SD and AUX inputs, which provides an alternative way to play music other than Bluetooth streaming.
Other features of the Nulaxy KM29 include:
- Rotatable gooseneck design
- Supports handsfree calling
- Advanced noise cancellation technology
- Built-in microphone
- Smart fast charge USB port
- Integrated voltmeter to show the condition of the battery
- Fast forward or fast backwards functionality
- 5 EQ music play modes
- Caller ID display
- Built-in over current, over voltage and temperature control
- Uses Bluetooth 3.0 technology
Nulaxy are a brand that have been producing FM transmitters for many years and the KM29 model is their best yet. It’s packed full of intuitive features that improves the usability and performance. Compared to previous models, the larger display makes it far more aesthetically pleasing and easier to use, which is a great bonus.
Overall, the KM29 model by Nulaxy is the best Bluetooth FM transmitter that combines performance with value for money.
Check it Out2. VicTsing Bluetooth FM Transmitter
VicTsing are another brand that produce a range of FM transmitters for cars and this model in particular is their most popular. It provides compatibility with Bluetooth, USB, AUX and TF card inputs and has very a similar design to the Nulaxy KM29 above.
This particular model only has a 1.44 inch LCD display but if you require a larger screen, the brand offers a 1.8 inch alternative.
Other features of the VicTsing FM Transmitter include:
- 3.0 Bluetooth technology
- 1.44 inch LCD display
- Caller ID and audio information on screen
- Bluetooth range of 5 meters
- CVC Noise cancellation technology
- Available in black or grey
- 87.5 – 108.0 frequency range
- Crystal clear sound quality and memory function
- 5V 2.1A USB port for fast charging
- Voltage meter of car battery
Both the VicTsing and Nulaxy are very similar in terms of performance and features but the VicTsing is slightly cheaper. For that reason, it’s the best Bluetooth FM transmitter for the money that won’t disappoint and is backed by the reputable brand.
Check it Out3. ZINTOU Bluetooth FM Transmitter for Car
The ZINTOU Bluetooth FM transmitter is a premium option that is packed full of features and has a distinctively large display. In terms of playing music, the device allows you to stream via Bluetooth, TF card, AUX or USB.
Supplied with this Bluetooth FM transmitter is a 21-key remote control, which allows you to control music and even answer incoming calls.
Other features of the ZINTOU BC32RC include:
- Uses Bluetooth 4.2
- Dual USB charging with a 5v/2.4A fast charge port
- 1.8 inch large LCD screen
- 76 – 108 frequency range
- Battery voltage display
- Responds to voice commands
- Supplied with a 21 key remote control
- Supports Bluetooth, AUX, USB and TF cards
Although the ZINTOU FM transmitter isn’t as popular as the others, it’s an excellent option that is backed by a 12 month warranty. It offers four methods of playing music as well as fast charging USB ports that are 30% faster than similar priced alternatives.
Due to the large rectangular screen shape, it’s advised that you check the dimensions. The last thing you want is the screen to block the gear shift knob or other components.
Check it Out4. TECBOSS Car FM Transmitter
The TECBOSS is a compact FM transmitter that uses the latest Bluetooth 5.0 version and is designed for maximum performance. A unique feature of this device is the dedicated enhanced bass button, which instantly increases the bass when activated.
Although it’s relatively small in comparison to the alternatives, it still has dual USB charging with one of the ports offering fast charging via a 2.4A output.
Other features of the TECBOSS Bass include:
- Bluetooth 5.0
- Dual USB port (5V 2.4 & 5V 1.0)
- Compatible with all smartphones
- Unique enhanced bass button
- Over current, over temperature and short circuit protection
- Built-in microphone
The TECOBOSS FM transmitter is a highly rated and compact plug and play device that won’t disappoint. The ability to boost the bass output is truly unique and an added bonus that no other FM transmitters on the market offer.
Check it Out5. Scosche Bluetooth FM Transmitter Car Kit
The Scosche FM transmitter Car Kit is another compact device that has a gooseneck design for angling it to suit your requirements. Although it only has one USB port, it’s a fast charging illuminated 2.1 amp USB port.
Compared to any of the alternative FM transmitter, the Scosche brand offer an impressive three year warranty for complete peace of mind.
Other features of the Scosche Bluetooth Car Kit include:
- Gooseneck design that is easily adjusted
- Clear LCD display
- Available in black or silver
- 2.1A illuminated USB port
- Supplied with an AUX port
- Backed by a 3 year warranty
- Siri and Google Voice compatible
- DPS echo cancellation for clear conversations
Overall, it’s an excellent all-round FM transmitter that is backed by the longest warranty within this article. The only main drawback is that it only has one USB port but this may not be an issue for many people.
Check it Out6. TecTri Bluetooth FM Transmitter
The TecTri FM transmitter is designed for cigarette lighters that are not usable from the drivers position. For example, the socket may be located far away, in the armrest or elsewhere. This is where this transmitter becomes very useful. It uses an extended power cord, which connects from the cigarette lighter socket to the location of the transmitter.
Provided with this device is a magnetic air vent mount, which allows you to place the FM transmitter in a position that best suits your requirements. It also doubles up as a magnetic phone holder inside of your car.
Other features of the TecTri FM Transmitter include:
- 1.4 inch LCD display
- Dual USB charging ports (5V/1A & 5V/2.4A)
- Supports Bluetooth and TF card music streaming
- Built-in microphone with CVC noise suppression
- Displays car battery voltage
- Compatible with 95% of Bluetooth devices
The TecTri Bluetooth FM transmitter ticks every box in terms of usability and it doesn’t come with an expensive price tag. Although the power cord can be a highly desirable feature, it can also get in the way if it’s not required.
Check it Out7. GOgroove FlexSMART FM Transmitter
The Gogroove is a premium Bluetooth FM transmitter that allows for 2 devices to be connected simultaneously. As this is a more expensive device compared to the alternatives, it does comes with an impressive 3 year warranty for peace of mind.
Unlike many of the alternatives, this FM transmitter has larger buttons, which makes controlling the device without looking at it much easier.
Other features of the GOgroove FlexSMART X2 include:
- 4 inch flexible gooseneck design
- HSP, HFP, A2DP, & AVRCP Bluetooth profiles
- Frequency range of 88.1 to 107.9
- Side USB port for charging
- Built in microphone with improved voice detection
- On-board controls for hands free calling
- Flexible gooseneck design
- LED display feedback
For cars that have the cigarette lighter socket far away, the longer gooseneck design that is 4 inches long is very desirable. It’s also very flexible, which allows you to easily angle to the device to best suit your requirements.
Although the GOgroove is an excellent all-round FM transmitter, its expensive price tag makes the other transmitters a better option in terms of value for money.
Check it Out8. VicTsing QC30 FM Transmitter For Car
Another FM transmitter by the VicTsing brand is their QC30 model, which is a compact alternative packed with the latest technology. It uses an advanced Bluetooth V5.0 chip that provides faster pairing and more stable sound quality compared to the competition.
The brand also state that the you can charge your your devices up to 4 times faster than standard USB ports, which is thanks to the quick charge 3.0 port.
Other features of the VicTsing QC30 include:
- Dual USB port
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- Siri and Google assistant functionality
- Noise suppression technology for clearer calls
- Blue LED lighting
- 3 hot key buttons for controlling the unit
- Suitable for both 12V or 24V power sources
The VicTsing is another highly rated FM transmitter that is packed full of features and functionality. The compact design is a requirement for many people but unlike the alternatives, this transmitter maintains all the functionality.
Check it Out9. ZEEPORTE Bluetooth FM Transmitter
The ZEEPORTE is a unique Bluetooth FM transmitter that has a colorful design due to the 7 color LED backlit light. As with the VicTsing alternative above, this unit also has a QC3.0 USB port, which allows for extra fast charging of your devices.
The brand state that it works with all Bluetooth enabled devices and the Bluetooth 5.0 technology provides a seamless connection.
Other features of the ZEEPORTE Bluetooth Transmitter include:
- 7 color LED backlit lighting
- Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity
- DSP audio technology for clearer sound
- Noise suppression (CVC technology)
- Compatible with all Bluetooth devices
- Provides excellent sound quality
- Supports TF card and USB
- Siri and Google assistant functionality
The ZEEPORTE FM transmitter is a unique option that provides great performance and looks great whilst driving at night. It features an array of functionality and a clever design but it’s still one of the most affordable options within this article.
Check it Out10. Waulnpekq Bluetooth FM Transmitter Car Kit
By far one of the cheapest FM transmitters on the market that is actually worth buying is this Waulnpekq unit. It’s has a compact design that includes three buttons, dual USB ports and a clear LCD display. In terms of the music streaming capability, it’s able to play music via Bluetooth, USB or TF cards up to 32 GB.
Other features of the Waulnpekq Transmitter include:
- Latest Bluetooth 5.0 version
- Dual USB port (5V/1A & 5V/3.1A)
- 87.5 to 108.0 frequency range
- Bluetooth, TF and USB music streaming
- Built-in microphone that uses CVC technology
- Responds to voice commands
- Universal compatibility
The Waulnpekq is a cheap FM transmitter that offers far more functionality than similar priced alternatives. The only drawback is that it doesn’t have the most aesthetically pleasing of designs but the compact construction means it’s barely noticeable anyway.
Check it OutBluetooth FM Transmitter Buying Guide
Listening to the radio or music that you simply don’t want to listen to can become very mundane. By using a FM transmitter, you can switch to steaming your own music without any wires or a complicated setup.
However, it’s not just audio streaming that a FM transmitter can offer, it can also act as a Bluetooth hands free car kit for safe and legal phone calls.
There are hundred of transmitters available and many are cheaper than the recommendations above. However, most of the budget option use older Bluetooth technology and don’t offer handsfree calling or long warranties.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below guide regarding FM transmitters.
Bluetooth Version
As with most technology, they improve at a fast rate and you will want to ensure you get the latest available. Most of the FM transmitters available will use the Bluetooth version 3.0 and above. However, many brands are upgrading their new models to use the latest version, which is Bluetooth 5.0 and it has plenty of new features.
Some of the newest features include dual audio, further distance, better speed, improved sound quality and much more.
Music Streaming and Sound Quality
The main purpose of the FM transmitter is to tune into an unused frequency on your stereo and match it to the FM on the device. This is the way music is played through the cars speakers but the sound quality can vary between devices.
If you have just purchased car speakers for sound quality but are using a cheap FM transmitter, it may output distorted music. Paying the slightly more for a better sound quality device such as the Nulaxy is a worthwhile investment that you won’t regret.
All the recommendations use Bluetooth for audio streaming but there are other forms of outputting audio. These include using the USB, TF or AUX inputs but the simplicity and compatibility with your smartphone make Bluetooth the perfect option for audio streaming.
Hot Key Buttons
The buttons on the interface that allow you to use the device can transform its usability. Large hot key buttons that are easy to reach and don’t require you to look down at the device can make it far easier to use. These buttons can be used for switching between songs or answering calls without the need to touch your phone.
Power Source
The majority of FM transmitters will run from a 12V cigarette lighter. For those that drive older cars and notice that the transmitter is not working, be sure to check the fuse that powers the cigarette lighter. From our research, this seems to be a common issue, which results in so many transmitters being returned.
If the fuse is working, check the continuity using an automotive multimeter, which allows you to see if there is any current running to the cigarette lighter.
For those that are using their cigarette lighter for other devices, you could invest into cigarette lighter adapter, which gives you additional sockets to use.
The Design
The design of the FM transmitter varies and it’s important that you choose one to suits your requirements. Not every car is designed to use FM transmitters and they can get in the way with the wrong design.
For example, if you drive a manual car and the cigarette lighter is located next to the gear stick, there is the potential to hit the transmitter whilst changing gears.
If this is the case, we highly recommend choosing a gooseneck design so that you can angle the bulk of the device away from the gear stick. You could also choose a compact device such as the IMDEN device, which will be barely noticeable when plugged in.
Large displays are also very desirable because they can output the signal strength, voltage, audio and caller ID information. Those that are smaller will simply display just the frequency.
Drawbacks of FM Transmitters
FM transmitters are one of the best inventions in the car audio industry but there is one main drawback. If you travel long distances, the FM station that you choose may reach another radio station that would not be present in your local area.
This may interrupt with your audio streaming and become frustrating whilst travelling long distances because you’ll need to switch between FM stations quite frequently.
Conclusion
If you cannot afford a new head unit with various audio inputs, then a FM transmitter is perfect alternative. They are cost effective solution that is easy to use and compatible with virtually all devices with Bluetooth connectivity.
All of our recommendations are able to play music via Bluetooth but some also offer AUX, USB and TF card alternatives. We advise that you choose a FM transmitter design that won’t become obstructive when plugged into the 12V socket.
To avoid disappoint, if you are able to increase your budget slightly, it’s worth spending the extra for the latest Bluetooth version.
