Best Bluetooth Car Kits

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 3, 2024
People talk on the phone all the time, dealing with all sorts of questions on the way to the office and back home. Yet, sometimes it’s just inconvenient to hold phone in hands and drive. This is where a Bluetooth car kit comes in handy! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
INTERFACE
SUPPORTED PROFILES
HOLDER TYPE
BATTERY LIFE
FEATURES
SIZE
WARRANTY
 
PROS
The device provides quality sound from 3 speakers and Virtual Surround Sound system. Dual microphone background noise reduction technology is aimed at clearing ambient noise during conversation.
CONS
Metal clip for device's installation might leave traces on a sun visor.
OUR VERDICT
Jabra Freeway Speakerphone has 3 speakers and modern technologies which provide incredible quality of voice and music.
detailed parameters
INTERFACE
Bluetooth v2.1
SUPPORTED PROFILES
A2DP audio streaming
HOLDER TYPE
Metal clip for a sun visor
BATTERY LIFE

Talk time - up to 14 hours
Standby time - up to 960 hours

FEATURES
FM transmitter, Mute button, Voice management, Motion sensor, Up to 8 paired devices (2 active simultaneously)
SIZE
3.9" x 4.7" x 0.7"
WARRANTY

1 year

PROS
My Motospeak application allows you to listen to incoming text messages while Crystal Talk app provides a clear microphone sound.
CONS
Some iPhone applications aren't compatible with the device.
OUR VERDICT
Motorola Roadster 2 has a lot of useful functions. Moreover, its talk time makes it possible to use the device during long trips.
detailed parameters
INTERFACE
Bluetooth v2.1
SUPPORTED PROFILES
A2DP audio streaming
HOLDER TYPE
Metal clip for a sun visor
BATTERY LIFE

Talk time - up to 20 hours
Standby time - up to 500 hours

FEATURES
FM transmitter, Auto on/off function, Dual microphone noise reduction
SIZE
3.54" x 2.76" x 0.56"
WARRANTY

1 year

PROS

Large control button offers ultimate kit manageability. The audio quality is excellent for both music streaming and calling as the kit supports aptX codec.

CONS

It is somewhat difficult to relocate the button after mounting it to the dash.

OUR VERDICT

The Kinivo BTC450 is an inexpensive solution for those who want to furnish their oldish vehicle with a modern Bluetooth technology, which supports hands-free calls and can stream music from your phone.

detailed parameters
INTERFACE

Bluetooth V2.1+EDR

SUPPORTED PROFILES

A2DP audio streaming

HOLDER TYPE

3M adhesive pads

BATTERY LIFE

Talk and standby time depends on car battery

FEATURES

Micro-CLA power adapter with USB power port, Aux-In connection

SIZE

1.65 x 1.65 x 0.59 inches

WARRANTY

1 year

PROS
Using Belkin Car Kit it's become much more convenient to stream music from your smartphone right to car speakers. Automatic shifting between playlist and call mode is super handy too.
CONS
The gadget can work only with one smartphone.
OUR VERDICT
Thanks to small size, this Bluetooth car kit can fit in any place in your car. Control and adjust the settings by pushing a single button.
detailed parameters
INTERFACE
Bluetooth v2.1
SUPPORTED PROFILES
Not available
HOLDER TYPE
Removable magnetic holder
BATTERY LIFE
Talk and standby time depends on car battery
FEATURES
Micro-CLA power adapter with USB power port, Aux-In connection
SIZE
1.4" x 6" x 5.6"
WARRANTY

3 years

PROS

Bluetooth 4.0 technology allows you to pair the receiver with 2 Bluetooth-enabled devices at the same time.

CONS

Lacks auto power on feature

OUR VERDICT

This stylish and discrete car kit is the best solution for those who want to get the most out of their speaker system while staying focused on the road.

detailed parameters
INTERFACE

Bluetooth v4.0

SUPPORTED PROFILES

A2DP audio streaming

HOLDER TYPE

Connection through Aux input

BATTERY LIFE

Talk time - Up to 10 hours
Standby time - 120 hours

FEATURES

Aux-In connection

SIZE

4.5 x 2.4 x 2 inches

WARRANTY

18 months

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Jabra Freeway (100-46000000-02)

Broad Experience

Jabra brand has started by the Great Northern Telegraph Company that was established in 1869 by Danish financier C.F. Tietgen. The concept idea was to make a telephone line and connect France and Great Britain with Russia and Eastern Asia. What seemed impossible right away was done successfully in the end. For the next 100 years, the company was actively broadening the lines and established first telegraph connection between Western Europe and Japan and between Hong Kong and Siberia. After that, company’s progress went fast and very soon, the Great Northern Telegraph Company held a leading position in the market, besting peers in the industry of speakerphone production. Introduction of wireless technologies put the company further from the competition so it could truly roll out and expand application of its products. Today the company has got plenty of awards for inventions and, which is way more important, trust and recognition from consumers worldwide.

Review of Jabra Freeway (100-46000000-02) A2DP

True Volume

The manufacturer managed to make the sound of Jabra Bluetooth car kit loud enough thanks to the combination of 3 small speakers and Virtual Surround Sound system. This model is one of the first car speakerphones equipped with 3 speakers. The sound produced by these speakers is so clear that it’s easy to forget your caller is on the other side of a line. Besides speaking on a phone, you may also listen to your favorite tracks right from your smartphone. The kit features two microphones so as to ensure crystal clear voice sound, and noise reduction technology. No foreign sounds will interfere and weaken the signal. Actually, a lot of drivers use this Bluetooth car kit instead of a phone and none has yet complained of the poor quality.

Jabra Freeway (100-46000000-02) A2DP in the use

More Products to Consider

A car phone holder would be of great use in any car that lacks a specialized place for storing and keeping mobile gadgets.

Detailed review of Jabra Freeway (100-46000000-02) A2DP

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $89.95
Stock In stock
ASIN B004XZHY34

VIDEO
The Jabra Freeway Review

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

This is actually my second one, I think I wore out my previous one after nearly seven years it lived it the car even in the heat of summer. It is by far one of my favorite purchases ever.

Size & Weight

Size is similar one square and the other longer and narrow but I do like the button placement better on the Roadster as well.

Features

It also has an FM transmitter feature, and the thing is horrendous. I'm aware of the general issues around FM transmitters, and have used a dedicated one from Belkin with good results.
 

Motorola Roadster 2 (89556N)

Intelligence Everywhere

The first thing that comes to mind while speaking about Motorola company is probably a cell phone. It isn't surprising as it was among the leaders of cell phone production all over the world for a long time. However, Motorola works in some other spheres and its achievements are really impressive. The first gadget produced by the company was a car radio receiver installed in Studebaker car. By the way, the name Motorola is somehow associated with cars. It consists of two parts - Motor and ola. Thus, the very part Motor emphasizes the company's inclination to automobile sphere. However, it wasn’t the only business direction the chief managers were interested in. They have also succeeded in beeper and quadrangular TV display tube production. Moreover, the company has even cooperated with Apollo team and developed a special radio transmitter that was supposed to transmit signals from the Moon to the Earth! As you can see, Motorola company can impress anyone, and the results of its work prove this fact.

Review of Motorola Roadster 2 (89556N) Speedy Conversations

Interesting Fact

Motorola company has also worked on the development of microprocessors. Thus, Apple company used these very processors for their first computers. Now, as you know this fact, you can't doubt the professionalism of Motorola team.

Motorola Roadster 2 (89556N) Speedy Conversations in the use

Keep in Touch. Always

In spite of a relatively small size, Motorola speakerphone can work up to 20 hours in a talk time mode, giving you the advantages of staying in touch with your family, friends or business partners no matter how far away you're from home or the office. The kit is also compatible with Car Finder application that can show you where your car's been parked on a big parking lot.

Detailed review of Motorola Roadster 2 (89556N) Speedy Conversations

More Products to Consider

3-Port Car Charger will become an irreplaceable helper for consumers who keep at least a couple of gadgets in a car, allowing them to get their all devices charged at a time. 

Motorola Roadster 2 (89556N) Speedy Conversations application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $65.77
Stock In stock
ASIN B007AQF0WK

VIDEO
Motorola Roadster 2 Review

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

I tried to use the built-in speaker since FM was not working well. The built-in speaker tends to work a bit better, but the sound quality itself sounds like a tin can. It almost sounds like its echoing.

Size & Weight

The size was way smaller than I was expecting for some reason. It is really about the size of a large garage door opener.

Features

Launching Phone Commands! This was by far the most annoying part of the Jabra that worked very poorly.
 

Kinivo BTC450

Incorporating Several Tasks into One

Every car owner will highly appreciate the Kinivo BTC450 car kit that can add a modern and ergonomic Bluetooth system even to the older car models. Thus, this multipurpose device is designed to provide safer and more comfortable driving experience. Apart from the possibility to use this kit for making hands-free calls, it can also be utilized for streaming music directly from your smartphone or car stereo system wirelessly. No doubt, this model is a real bang for the buck! It doesn't cost an arm and a leg and makes a very smart investment. 

The car kit includes the main unit, 3.5mm aux-in cable, and 12V power adapter. Installing the Bluetooth car kit is quite easy and doesn't require any sophisticated knowledge, skills, or tools. You just need to mount the circular control knob on a dashboard or any other easily accessible place with the help of the included adhesive pad. It is important that you wipe the attachment spot thoroughly for better adhesion. The next step is to plug the 12V adapter into a cigarette lighter and the 3.5 mm cable into the AUX Input of the car stereo system. 

The main unit or control knob is the key component here as it serves a number of functions. First of all, it initiates a pairing with your smartphone. Once you've synced the gadgets the button works as a Play/Pause button. As for answering the calls, the music dims automatically when someone is calling you so you can press the button and answer the incoming call.  You will also find 2 small buttons at the top of the unit, which will allow you to easily skip a song or return to the previous one without taking your focus off the road.

Review of Kinivo BTC450 Buetooth Car Kit

A Convenient Dual-Purpose Adapter

The included power adapter features a thoroughly thought-out design that should be to the liking of anyone who is often on the road. The integrated USB port gives you an opportunity to charge your phone, tablet, and other electronics using your standard USB cable and juicing up your ride by playing loud music at the same time.

Kinivo BTC450 Buetooth Car Kit in the use

Robust Design

We should also say a few words about the included L-shaped connector that can be plugged into the AUX input jack of your car stereo system. This type of connectors is more durable and robust. It effectively precludes access cable from kinking and ensures optimal tension and fit with the jack. Thus, you won't break the device's plug or the connector itself if you tug the cable accidentally. Considering the fact that the given L-shaped connector stands for audio signal transferring it must be in operative condition always.

Detailed review of Kinivo BTC450 Buetooth Car Kit

Smart Operation with Automatic Reestablishment of Bluetooth Connection

Another competitive option this car kit offers is the automatic reestablishment of the Bluetooth connection each time you start your car or your phone is back in range. No need to press different buttons to initiate pairing and start music playback manually; just start the engine and enjoy the track that was playing the last time you left the car. Finally, the Kinivo BTC450 can beep through the car speakers to tell you that it's connected to your phone or disconnected.
Kinivo BTC450 Buetooth Car Kit application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $41.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B009NLTW60

 

Belkin F4U037bt

With Customer in Mind

Belkin company is a manufacturer of numerous products for home and leisure whose aim is to make your life easier and more comfortable. Apart from the ability to use the gadgets of this company at home, you can also apply them in your car. One of such gadgets is Belkin Hands-Free Bluetooth Car Kit - a wireless device to manage your incoming and outgoing calls without reaching for and holding smartphone into hands. Having this device, you can kill two birds with one stone - drive safely and speak on the phone.

Review of Belkin F4U037bt Loud & Clear

Simplicity of Use

Due to compact size of Belkin speakerphone, it can be easily attached to any part of your car with the help of a magnetic holder. The usability of the device is also determined by the fact that it has diode light so you can use it easily even at night. Moreover, making and receiving calls, setting adjustment and other operations are carried out with only one button. Besides being an intermediary between you and your phone during conversations, this car kit lets you listen to your favorite music via car stereo system. If you want to use the speakerphone in this way, just connect it to your smartphone with the help of AUX cable and play the music you like. By the way, if you use GPS while driving, the music stops and starts automatically before and after GPS instructions. Thus, you can not only speak on the phone while driving but perform several useful functions as well.

Belkin F4U037bt Loud & Clear in the use

No Charging Needed

This peculiarity of Belkin Bluetooth car kit distinguishes it from other models. We are used to the fact that almost all similar gadgets need to be charged from time to time. However, this device doesn't. It works while connected to the car battery, and it means that it works all the time you drive. Moreover, there is an additional USB port with the help of which you can charge other devices, for example, your smartphone.

Detailed review of Belkin F4U037bt Loud & Clear

More Products to Consider

If the length of the included cable isn't long enough to connect your car stereo system to the power socket, you can get an audio cable optionally. Some of the best cables feature gold-plated connectors to ensure pure sounding of the speakers.

Belkin F4U037bt Loud & Clear application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B004CLYJ2I

VIDEO
Belkin Bluetooth - Play music on your vehicle stereo from your pocket
 

Mpow MBR1

Stylish and Recognizable Design

True Apple fans will notice striking similarities in design between this Bluetooth car kit and iPhone 5s at a glance. We don't know for sure whether this recognizable design is a marketing ploy but this model is one of the most popular car kits on the market. Well, the round-cornered rectangular body with just one multi-function button on the front panel and silver colored frame looks just like the mini version of the above-mentioned smartphone. The Mpow Streambot is available in black and gray colors so you can find the one that will match your other devices or car interior.

You will also see two small track buttons on the right side featured there for volume control and quick change of tracks. By pressing the multi-function button you can manage your calls, play/stop the music, or pair the device with your smartphone. This Streambot kit is pretty small. With such compact dimensions of 4.5 x 2.4 x 2 inches, it surely won't get in the way of any other buttons or tools located on your dashboard. Just plug the Mpow Streambot into your car stereo’s AUX port, pair it with your gadget, and enjoy hands-free conversations and wireless music streaming. 

Review of Mpow MBR1 Bluetooth Car Receiver

Different Ways of Connecting to Car Audio System

The Bluetooth car kit comes with a few additional adapters and cables to suit your various needs. Different connectivity options will allow you to use this device at full 100% and take the advantage of all the possibilities this device has to offer. Сonnect the receiver to your car stereo system via AUX input using the cable with 3.5mm jack and place the device wherever you like for easier access and greater visibility. At the same time, the receiver features pretty useful male-to-male 3.5 mm audio adapter for better and more versatile mounting options.

Charging the battery is also convenient. It takes about an hour or two to juice up the device using a mini-USB cable provided in the box if you have got an adapter for it ready. As for the battery charge, the manufacturer states that it lasts for up to 10 hours in talk mode or non-stop music playback and up to 120 hours on standby.

Mpow MBR1 Bluetooth Car Receiver in the use

Advanced Interface Version

This MPOW car kit connects to other mobile devices via Bluetooth 4.0 and features an updated interface that has an edge over the older versions. The thing is, it pairs far better and can work further away from the audio source. Additionally, Bluetooth 4.0 offers less sound distortion producing clearer and crisper sound. Finally, this interface version boasts the ability to connect two Bluetooth devices at the same time.

Detailed review of Mpow MBR1 Bluetooth Car Receiver

Whooping Bluetooth Range Distance

It is a common knowledge that Bluetooth devices use radio waves instead of traditional wires to connect with your gadget which makes this type of connection a very appealing technologic know-how. This Bluetooth 4.0 car kit offers pretty solid range distance of up to 30 ft for open space and cable-less audio streaming and hands-free talking.

Mpow MBR1 Bluetooth Car Receiver application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00MJMV0GU

 

What is a Bluetooth Car Kit?

Bluetooth car kit is a compact device using which you can safely speak on a phone while driving. It is possible due to hands-free technology – you don’t need to reach for a phone to answer the call. This small but useful gadget allows for comfortable usage in a car, transmitting incoming phone calls via built-in car kit speakers or car stereo system where a driver needs only to either give a voice command or hit a single button to answer the call. Using the phone this way is absolutely safe since your hands can lay on the wheel and your mind concentrate on the road.

You may also be interested in car video & stereo receivers if you aren't pleased with a sound of your car stereo system, or if it doesn't play videos.

What Features to Compare

Installation

This characteristic is of the utmost importance while choosing Bluetooth car kit as it determines usability of device. Pay attention to several factors.

  • To be able to install the gadget into your car with maximum comfort, consider its size and decide whether it's going to fit the place you chose.
  • Most Bluetooth car kits have metal clips for easy installation on a sun visor so that the gadget is placed right before a driver and he/she can track incoming phone calls and messages. Some kits can be mounted piece-by-piece with a main unit installed on a dashboard and controller on a wheel.
  • You may also want to consider what power source is required to run the kit. Some models are battery-powered and come with their own set of batteries while others require connection to a cigarette lighter.

Control

There are two ways to control Bluetooth car kit - by hand or by voice. With a remote controller mounted on a wheel it shouldn’t be a problem to hit the button and answer the phone, however, most drivers now prefer kits that allow for voice control and hands-free operation.

Bluetooth car kits connect to smartphones via Bluetooth and instantly synchronize with a phonebook. To pair your device for the first time, though, you may need to enter a pin code (just like you’d need to do when connecting to your friend’s phone).

Additional Features

Pursuing the aim of making products better, manufacturers offer a broad choice of additional features you may also be interested in. Let’s consider what they can be:

  • Noise reduction technology provides quality sound while speaking on a phone. The technology is aimed at reducing background and surrounding sounds. Thus, wheel or wind noise, someone else’s voice except yours won’t be heard on the other end of the line. There are also models which eliminate echo effect. However, cheap gadgets may not support such functions, and it is an obvious disadvantage over more sophisticated devices.
  • Bluetooth car kits can be paired with several devices at once. It is a useful option if you have 2 phones and need to answer both of them frequently.
  • Pay attention to the way a sound is transmitted. You can hear the voice of your interlocutor (or music) from either built-in speakers or car audio system. If you'd like to hear the sound from the car system, make sure the kit has an FM transmitter.
  • A display will become a useful addition, too. There you’ll see who’s calling, - the name of a contact from your phonebook or a phone number, and then, decide whether to answer or not.

Sources:

1. Suzanne Choney Bluetooth Gets Place in the Car, not Just the Ear, NBC news.

2. Steve Brachmann Evolution of Technology: Bluetooth, the Once and Future King, IPWatchdog. May 10, 2015.

3. Nick Guy The Best Bluetooth Kits for Every Car Stereo, The Wirecutter. July 26, 2016.

4. Antuan Goodwin What can Bluetooth do besides make calls? CNET. June 13, 2012.

5. Will Greenwald, Jamie Landino The Best Bluetooth Speakers of 2016, PCMag. July 21, 2016.

6. Aoife M. McEvoy How to Buy a Bluetooth Headset or Car Speakerphone, PCWorld. March 2, 2011.

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