An older car without Bluetooth can still stream music and take hands-free calls with the right FM transmitter plugged into the cigarette lighter. These six models cover every budget and feature set, from crystal-clear call quality to fast dual-port charging.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
|
🚗
|
Nulaxy KM18 Best Overall 1.44-inch color display, dual USB charging, microphone for calls |
9.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Anker Roav SmartCharge F2 Best Sound Quality Bluetooth 4.2, two custom EQ presets, PowerIQ 24W dual charging |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
JETech FM Transmitter Best Value QC3.0 quick charge, hands-free calling, U-disk and TF card playback |
8.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
LIHAN Bluetooth FM Transmitter Best for Hands-Free Calls Dual USB ports, large microphone, supports Siri and Google Assistant |
8.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Nulaxy KM24 Best Display 1.8-inch large color screen, QC3.0 charging, EQ sound modes |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
|
🚗
|
Comsoon FM Transmitter Best Compact Pick Compact body, dual USB charging, hands-free calling, TF card slot |
8.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Nulaxy KM18: Best Overall
The Nulaxy KM18 hits the sweet spot of features, reliability, and value, which is why it tops this list. Its bright color display surfaces the FM frequency, incoming caller, and current track at a glance so you spend less time fiddling and more time driving.
Dual USB ports keep your phone topped up while a second device charges alongside it. The noise-reducing microphone delivers natural-sounding calls, and the connection holds steady even when your phone sits in a pocket or console.
- 1.44-inch color screen shows frequency, battery voltage, and track info
- Two USB ports charge phone and another device at once
- Built-in microphone with noise reduction for hands-free calls
Pros: Clear display makes frequency tuning easy; Strong, stable Bluetooth pairing across the cabin
Cons: Screen brightness can wash out in direct sunlight
2. Anker Roav SmartCharge F2: Best Sound Quality
The Anker Roav SmartCharge F2 leans on Anker’s charging pedigree and audio tuning to stand out. Two EQ presets let you shape the sound for bass-heavy tracks or spoken-word podcasts, and the difference over a flat-output transmitter is easy to hear.
The companion app scans the dial and points you to the clearest frequency, which matters in busy urban areas. PowerIQ charging tops up two devices quickly, and the low-profile design tucks neatly into the dash without blocking nearby controls.
- Bluetooth 4.2 with two app-tunable EQ presets for richer audio
- PowerIQ dual ports deliver up to 24W of combined charging
- Roav app scans for the clearest open FM frequency automatically
Pros: Noticeably cleaner audio than most budget units; Companion app finds the least crowded frequency fast
Cons: Requires the app to unlock the EQ presets
3. JETech FM Transmitter: Best Value
The JETech FM Transmitter packs a surprising amount into an affordable package. Beyond Bluetooth streaming it reads music straight from a USB stick or TF card, so you can leave your phone out of it entirely on longer drives.
A QC3.0 port handles fast charging while a second USB port powers another device. Hands-free calling works with a single button press, making this a smart pick for anyone who wants core features without overspending.
- QC3.0 port plus a standard USB port for fast dual charging
- Plays music from a USB drive or TF card without a phone
- Hands-free calling with one-touch answer and redial
Pros: Excellent feature set for the money; Reads USB drives and TF cards directly
Cons: Button labels are small and hard to read at night
4. LIHAN Bluetooth FM Transmitter: Best for Hands-Free Calls
The LIHAN Bluetooth FM Transmitter is built around call clarity, with a large microphone that picks up your voice cleanly even at highway speed. A dedicated button wakes Siri or Google Assistant so you can dictate messages and start navigation without lifting a finger from the wheel.
Two USB ports cover charging duties for phone and passenger devices. The display is modest, but for drivers who prioritize confident hands-free calling over flashy screens, this unit delivers exactly what matters.
- Oversized microphone captures voice clearly for calls
- Voice assistant button triggers Siri or Google Assistant
- Dual USB ports for simultaneous device charging
Pros: Among the clearest call quality in this roundup; Direct voice assistant access without touching your phone
Cons: Display is small and basic compared with rivals
5. Nulaxy KM24: Best Display
The Nulaxy KM24 steps up the screen with a generous 1.8-inch color display that shows frequency, voltage, and track details in crisp detail. It is the most legible unit here, which makes quick adjustments safe and simple on the move.
QC3.0 charging keeps your phone fueled fast, and the EQ sound modes let you tailor the output to your playlist. The larger footprint is the only trade-off, so check the spacing around your power outlet before buying.
- Large 1.8-inch color display is easy to read at a glance
- QC3.0 fast charging port plus a second standard USB port
- Multiple EQ sound modes to match your music
Pros: Biggest, clearest screen in this lineup; Selectable EQ modes improve audio flexibility
Cons: Larger body may crowd tightly spaced power outlets
6. Comsoon FM Transmitter: Best Compact Pick
The Comsoon FM Transmitter is the pick for drivers who want their accessory to disappear into the dash. Its compact, low-profile body sits flush in the power outlet, so it never gets bumped by a knee or a passing bag.
Despite the small size it still offers dual USB charging, a TF card slot for phone-free playback, and reliable hands-free calling. There is no color screen, but the simple LED indicators keep things clean and distraction-free.
- Low-profile design sits flush and out of the way
- Dual USB ports for charging two devices together
- TF card slot and hands-free calling included
Pros: Discreet, snag-free fit in the power outlet; Affordable with all the everyday essentials
Cons: No color screen, just basic LED indicators
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Bluetooth FM transmitter work?
It plugs into your car’s 12V power outlet and pairs with your phone over Bluetooth. It then broadcasts that audio on a chosen FM frequency, which you tune your car radio to so the sound plays through your existing speakers.
Why is there static on my FM transmitter?
Static usually means the FM frequency you picked is too close to a local radio station. Scan for an empty frequency, set both the transmitter and your radio to that exact number, and the interference should clear up.
Can an FM transmitter make hands-free calls?
Yes. Most models in this roundup include a built-in microphone, so incoming calls route through your car speakers and your voice is picked up by the unit. Some also offer a button to trigger Siri or Google Assistant.
Our Verdict
For most drivers the Nulaxy KM18 is the best all-round choice, balancing a clear display, dependable Bluetooth, and dual charging. If audio quality is your priority pick the Anker Roav SmartCharge F2, and budget-focused buyers will be happy with the JETech. If your radio reception is weak or you want a fully integrated system, also see our guides to the best Bluetooth car adapters and the best car Bluetooth receivers.
More Car Tech Accessories Guides
Video Guide
Video: Related tutorial from YouTube