9 of the best car radio options for your commute
The best car radio is something most of us couldn’t do without these days. With a car radio CD player, you can start any drive in the right mood.
The latest radios come in a host of shapes and sizes, from high-performance ghetto blasters when you want to turn up the volume to pocket-sized devices.
One of the most common ways to listen to radio is through a car sound system.
After all, the journey to work on a Monday morning goes so much smoother when you can listen to your favorite radio channels.
Most modern cars come with a radio system built-in. If your vehicle, or its audio, is a little dated, you may decide you want to upgrade with something more advanced.
To help you discover the best buy car radio on the market today, we’re going to introduce you to some of the top-rated products.
The car radios come with a range of features, from Bluetooth transmission to built-in premium radio subscriptions.
Let’s start exploring the best options to add to your daily drive.
What's In This Article
- 1. SiriusXM SXPL1V1 Onyx Plus (best for SiriusXM)
- 2. JVC KD-X260BT car radio tuner (best EQ)
- 3. Pioneer DEH-S1100UB car radio (best with bass boost)
- 4. SARCCH Double Din (best with rear-view camera)
- 5. BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB (best budget car radio)
- 6. Jensen MP3210 car radio (best with USB charging)
- 7. Sound Storm Laboratories SDC26B (best with CD)
- 8. Kenwood KDC-MP378BT Bluetooth (best control options)
- 9. ATOTO A6 stereo with Bluetooth (best with Wi-Fi)
- Choosing the best car radio
- Choosing the best car radio
1. SiriusXM SXPL1V1 Onyx Plus (best for SiriusXM)
The SiriusXM Onyx Plus satellite radio is a fantastic device for those who love listening to SiriusXM radio.
Although your radio subscription comes separately, you can rest assured that streaming quality will be excellent with this product.
You get 3 months of satellite and streaming service included with your purchase too.
Convenient and easy-to-use, the device comes with a car kit, to help you get everything set up in time for your next drive.
You can tune to any Sirius channel you like, and even start a song from the beginning with the “TuneStart” feature.
This car radio also features support for up to 20 smart pre-set channels for quick and easy access.
SiriusXM include a bunch of advanced functions on their best-selling car radio, including a one-touch jump to help you skip channels, and replay features for pausing and rewinding live radio programming.
There’s even a “TuneMix” function that allows you to create your own ideal music channel.
- One-touch channel jumping
- Replay to pause, rewind and replay live programming
- Store up to 20 favorite channels
- TuneMix support to create your own channel
- TuneStart to start songs from the beginning
- Vehicle kit for easy access
- 3 months of SiriusXM streaming included
- Aux input with cable
- Access to over 300 channels
Because this device comes with SiriusXM built-in, you get plenty of support for top car radio entertainment you can’t find elsewhere, like CNN, Fox News, and the Howard Stern show.
This car radio tuner can be a little expensive when you consider the subscription costs, though.
The screen is also quite small, which might make it challenging to use.
Pros:
- Access to exclusive SiriusXM channels
- Rewind, pause, and replace live programming
- TuneStart to start songs from the beginning
- Create your own channel with TuneMix
- Vehicle kit included
Cons:
- Small screen
- Expensive with subscription costs
2. JVC KD-X260BT car radio tuner (best EQ)
JVC is a popular brand in the world of car radios. The company delivers excellent quality and durability in a host of products.
The KD-X260BT is a perfect example of this, equipped with support for in-car digital media and Bluetooth streaming.
There’s an LCD screen to show you all of the information you need about radio channels and music.
Playback audio options include access to MP3 and other digital files through USB. And you can also unlock Spotify, Pandora, and iHeartRadio using a Bluetooth device.
This car radio even comes with an amazing 13-band graphic equalizer so you can adjust your audio to suit you.
As part of the Bluetooth experience, the JVC KD-X260BT also comes with support for hands-free calling. You’ll need to connect your own device or headset, however.
On the plus side, a built-in phonebook allows for easy browsing through contacts.
- USB playback access
- MP3, WMA, WAV, and FLAC playback
- Spotify, iHeartRadio, and Pandora access
- Bluetooth streaming
- Hands-free calling
- 10 preset options
- 13-band EQ support
- Helpful LCD screen
- A2DP profile for enhanced audio
On top of all that, the USB inputs also mean you can charge your device on the move when you’re driving. Just connect your phone to get started.
While internet and digital radio are available, there doesn’t seem to be any support for standard FM and AM radio here.
Another issue is this product isn’t compatible with newer iPhones.
Pros:
- Support for USB playback
- Bluetooth streaming included
- Hands-free calling
- EQ support 13-band
- A2DP audio enhancement
Cons:
- No AM/FM options
- Not compatible with newer iPhones
3. Pioneer DEH-S1100UB car radio (best with bass boost)
The Pioneer DEH-S1100UB car radio comes from one of the best-known audio companies in the world.
Pioneer promises powerful music performance and plenty of advanced functionality for your car’s entertainment system.
The receiver also features CD playback capabilities, aux input, and USB input options too.
Delivered with a wireless remote control, so your passengers can control your radio from the back seat, the Pioneer DEH-S1100UB is brilliant for rediscovering better audio quality.
There’s a bass boost button and an EQ section where you can experiment with sound. The Pioneer also comes with support for smartphones if you want to stream smartphone audio.
This single DIN car radio from Pioneer supports a wide selection of audio types, including AM/FM, MP3, and more.
- Single Din Dash-in design
- Multi-segmented LED back light
- CEA-2006 amplifier compliance
- Face plate (detachable)
- 50 watts x 4 power output
- Wireless remote control included
- Free set of headphones
- EQ control
- Bass boost button
Right now, the Pioneer DEH-S1100UB comes with a set of free headphones for private listening.
One slight issue is this device is not a Bluetooth car radio, so it might be a problem for those who want to stream audio.
You might find navigating the settings is difficult too, even changing volume is more difficult than it should be.
Pros:
- Great sound quality
- Easy-to-implement design
- 4 X 50 watt power output options
- EQ control
- Bass boost button
Cons:
- No Bluetooth connection
- Navigating the settings is difficult
4. SARCCH Double Din (best with rear-view camera)
Why settle for an old-fashioned car radio and CD player when you can upgrade to something more suited to the digital landscape.
When conducting our car radio reviews, we found the SARCCH to be one of the better options for customers needing a Double Din fit.
This dual-core stereo comes with sizing information in the product description, so you don’t have to worry about a poor fit.
Compatible with hands-free calling functionality, the SARCCH car radio tuner comes with access to reversing camera systems, a music player, video player, aux-in, and USB.
Aside from FM radio, you can also play music through a memory-card slot or the USB input.
There’s also phone link navigation for Android phones. This feature doesn’t work for newer iPhone units.
This is a great product to have available if you want to see more information in your car’s dashboard.
The screen delivers up to 1080p performance, alongside excellent audio, with a bass boost included.
- Dual-core MP5 stereo size
- BT car stereo compatible
- FM radio
- USB, TF Card and aux-in
- Compatible with video and rear view camera
- Phone link and navigation support
- Large screen with 1080p resolution
- Free tuning tools included
The SARCCH does come with a free back-up camera and a set of tuning tools to help you get set-up, although many people will find this product difficult to use initially.
Another issue with this device is that it doesn’t include Bluetooth, or GPS if you don’t have the right phone operating system.
Pros:
- Excellent 1080p video screen
- Free back-up camera
- Car tuning tools included
- Multifunctional with FM radio and USB
- Lots of access to external content
Cons:
- No Bluetooth or GPS support
- Difficult to set up for beginners
5. BOSS Audio Systems 616UAB (best budget car radio)
Upgrading your car’s audio doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
If you’re looking for a simple way to listen to AM/FM radio, as well as unlocking Bluetooth streaming functionality, BOSS Audio has you covered.
This Bluetooth car radio comes with a dimmable backlit screen where you can check radio information or scroll through channels.
With Bluetooth built-in, you can play music and digital radio channels straight from your phone. There’s also a built-in microphone that picks up your voice for hands-free calling.
With a wide range of media playback options to choose from, users can explore everything from USB input to standard AM/FM radio stations.
Another bonus of this car radio is that it comes with front and rear pre-amp output connections so you can hook up external speakers.
- Clear dimmable LCD screen
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Hands-free calling
- LED lighting
- Media playback from MP3 and WMA files
- AM/FM radio stations
- USB port for a bigger music library
- Front and rear pre-amp outputs
- Built-in equalizer
The BOSS 616UAB car radio comes with everything you need for excellent audio, including Bluetooth streaming control, hands-free calling, and a built-in EQ so you can adjust your audio quality.
There’s no CD mechanism for listening to your favorite tunes, though.
In our car radio reviews, we also found the screen a little too dim at max brightness.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly Bluetooth car radio
- Hands-free calling supported
- USB port input
- AM and FM radio included
- Equalizer for managing audio quality
Cons:
- Screen is a little dim for some
- There’s no CD input option
6. Jensen MP3210 car radio (best with USB charging)
The Jensen MP3210 car radio is another brilliant option for people in search of an affordable car radio.
This convenient product comes with a handy high-resolution 7-character LCD screen which ensures a comfortable viewing experience when you’re behind the wheel.
For those who prefer to keep their car radio totally hands-free, there’s access to Google or Siri voice assistance too.
Summon your virtual assistant with one button at the start of your journey and speak your commands as you go.
Bluetooth streaming means that you can easily pair your top car radio with a variety of Bluetooth devices, meaning you can make and receive calls hands-free.
This car radio tuner also supports AM/FM tuning alongside an MP3 playing option.
- High-resolution LCD screen
- Siri and Google assist
- Upgraded Bluetooth streaming
- Music streaming from USB port
- AM/FM radio stations
- 30 station presets
- 1-year warranty
- Convenient easy-to-use design
- 2 band tone control
Your Jensen device comes with a 1-year warranty for extra peace of mind. Plus, you can control aspects of your audio with a 2-band support system for treble and bass.
There are also 4 pre-set EQ options to choose from.
The light is very bright on this screen, which some will find distracting. It’s also a little difficult to get the system set up.
Pros:
- High-resolution LCD screen
- Google and Siri smart assistant access
- 1 year warranty included
- 2-band EQ control and EQ presets
- Bluetooth streaming alongside AM/FM
Cons:
- Difficult set-up
- Very bright screen
7. Sound Storm Laboratories SDC26B (best with CD)
If you’re looking for a brilliant car radio CD player for your daily commute, Sound Storm has you covered.
This SDC26B car radio tuner features access to everything from Bluetooth to CD playback.
Aside from allowing you to stream your media through a Bluetooth enabled device, this product also supports hands-free calling too.
The built-in microphone on this top car radio will automatically pick up your voice, although there doesn’t seem to be support included for a smart assistant.
Tune into AM/FM radio stations with ease, and access inputs like USB, aux support, and front and rear pre-amp outputs.
You can access up to 50 watts of power on four channels with this device.
The Sound Storm is one of the best Bluetooth car radios with a CD-player included.
Some of the features are:
- Built-in microphone for hands-free calls
- Bluetooth streaming
- Media playback (CD or USB)
- AM/FM radio support
- USB and aux-input
- Front and rear pre-amp outputs
- 50 watts of power for 4 channels
- Included wireless remote
- Single din design
This single din car radio is an excellent choice for those who want access to a reliable radio without spending a fortune.
You get AM/FM radio as well as Bluetooth streaming, plus the year warranty is great for peace of mind too.
The buttons and knobs on this product feel a little cheap. There’s also no smart assistant support.
Pros:
- Pre-amp output support
- Microphone for hands-free calling
- USB and aux input
- CD or USB playback
- Wireless remote
Cons:
- Cheap knobs and buttons
- No support for smart assistants
8. Kenwood KDC-MP378BT Bluetooth (best control options)
Kenwood is another of the best car radio brands on the market today, offering some of the leading products for people from all backgrounds.
If you’re looking for the best car radio for Bluetooth streaming and excellent power output, this could be it.
The Kenwood receiver comes with a CD player built-in so that you can make the most of your physical music collection.
You’ll also get smartphone connectivity and support for a range of popular streaming apps like Pandora and Spotify.
Built-in Bluetooth makes it easy to play your favorite songs and channels wherever you are.
The KDC-MP378BT even comes with a set of Alphasonik earbuds included as an extra gift.
- Excellent Bluetooth streaming
- Hands-free calling
- Pandora, Spotify, and iHeartRadio control
- Excellent LCD screen
- Theft-deterrent removable face plate
- CD player included
- Free Alphasonik headset
- Dual Bluetooth connection
One of the best features of this single din car radio is that it comes with the option to connect two phones or Bluetooth devices at once, so you don’t have to spend forever switching between connections.
It may be a little expensive for what you get. The buttons aren’t entirely user-friendly, and the remote seems like a pointless extra.
Pros:
- Dual Bluetooth streaming
- Excellent smartphone app control
- Removable face plate
- CD player for easy access to your tunes
- Free Alphasonik headset
Cons:
- A bit expensive for what you get
- Not the most user-friendly buttons
9. ATOTO A6 stereo with Bluetooth (best with Wi-Fi)
One of the most advanced products on our list of car radios, the ATOTO car radio tuner is a double din device that comes with plenty of amazing features to explore.
Developed with Android marshmallow, this product comes with a host of optimized and customized features that allow it to perform well in various vehicles.
Aside from Bluetooth streaming, you also get steering wheel key control and dual connections so you can stream from multiple devices at once.
The car stereo comes with a variety of apps installed, such as Google Maps, and Spotify.
You also get a Micro USB drive and Micro SD storage.
Continuous firmware updates for ATOTO A6 are available to keep your tech at the cutting edge.
- Excellent android operating system
- Factory steering wheel key control
- Dual Bluetooth
- A2DP playback
- Google maps and other apps
- Unlimited SD card and USB storage
- ATOTO constant updates
- AM/FM radio tuner
- Phone mirroring and casting
- WiFi connection
The ATOTO A6 is particularly impressive because it comes with a built-in microphone and an external Wi-Fi antenna for better connections.
One major issue with this product is that it tends to suffer from unexpected crashes.
Pros:
- Convenient android operating system
- Dual Bluetooth connections
- AM/FM radio tuner
- Phone casting and mirroring
- Access to Wi-Fi
Cons:
- Unexpected crashes
- Sound occasionally cuts out
Choosing the best car radio
Choosing the best car radio is a complicated process, and something that each person will need to approach carefully.
Selecting a car radio starts with thinking about the kind of budget you have to work with, and the extra features, bells and whistles, and components that seem right for you.
Some of the things to think about when making your choice include:
Bluetooth connectivity
Most of the best car radios today come with access to Bluetooth as standard. Some connections are better than others. Often, you’ll find that a radio with a dual Bluetooth connection is best, because this allows you to connect multiple devices at once.
CD compatibility
Aside from Bluetooth connectivity, you can also get a car radio tuner that comes with access to an integrated CD player. Some products even come with the option to play DVDs as well – although this is usually only possible with double din car radios.
Extra features
To make the most of your Bluetooth car radio, look for any extra features that you can also take advantage of. This includes support for smart assistant access, and even extra inputs, like aux cables and USB or SD cards.
Microphone
A lot of modern car radios come with a built-in microphone so you can take hands-free calls on the move. This functionality can also give you access to smart assistants within your device too.
Choosing the best car radio
Choosing the best car radio isn’t easy – but at least there are a lot of options available. You can find all kinds of car radios on the market today to suit any need.
If you’re looking for the solution with the most functionality, and money isn’t an object, you can try the ATOTO A6 car radio with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
If you want the best car radio with a CD player, the Sound Storm Laboratories option might be right for you.
We’d definitely recommend the BOSS Audio systems radio if you’re on a budget too.
Good luck finding the ideal radio for your needs and remember to check out our other articles for further radio advice.
Radio Fidelity: For the love of radio.
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