With a car satellite radio, you have the best chance of receiving hundreds of channels in your car. Browsing the net, here’s what I discovered the Best Portable Satellite Radio For Cars in 2024.
Best Portable Satellite Radio For Car
Not all vehicle audio systems are created equal, and this is especially true in the world of car satellite radios. These are changing rapidly and technological improvements, which follow one another, often lead to better products.
Today, any car satellite radio lets you access your favorite channels at the touch of a button or, even better, a voice command.
So without further ado, let’s make your driving much more enjoyable by taking a look at the best satellite radio receivers.
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Best Portable Satellite Radio For Car | Comparison Table 2024
Top Quality | 5- Star Picks | Great Prices
Preview | Product | Features | Price $$ |
SiriusXM Satellite Radio |
| view on Amazon | |
SiriusXM Onyx EZR Satellite Radio |
| view on Amazon | |
SiriusXM Tour Radio |
| view on Amazon | |
ChargerCity Satellite Radio |
| view on Amazon | |
UNITOPSCI Car Multimedia |
| view on Amazon | |
SiriusXM Commander Radio |
| view on Amazon | |
SiriusXM Satellite Radio with Vehicle Kit |
| view on Amazon | |
SiriusXM Vehicle Tuner Radio |
| view on Amazon | |
SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Radio |
| view on Amazon |
Best Portable Satellite Radio For Car | 2024 Products Overview
1. SiriusXM SXPL1H1: Best Sirius portable radio
The Onyx Plus SiriusXM Radio with Home Kit offers a versatile listening experience. Enjoy SiriusXM through your home stereo or powered speakers with a full-color display featuring album art and channel logos.
The radio includes 3 months of free All Access service, advanced music features, and the ability to pause, rewind, and replay live satellite radio. With listening flexibility, you can enjoy your favorite channels at home, in the office, or on the go with optional accessories like the SXSD2 Boombox or SXDV4 Vehicle Kit.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM Onyx Plus Satellite Radio with Home Kit is a great way to enjoy SiriusXM in the comfort of your own home. The kit includes a full–color display featuring album art, channel logos and graphics, and a remote control for easy access. Subscribers also receive three months of free All Access Service with their subscription. With the Onyx Plus, you can enjoy ad–free music from nearly every genre, as well as exclusive entertainment, comedy, and news. The Onyx Plus also has advanced music features like TuneStart, TuneMix, and TuneScan, so you can enjoy your favorite music quickly and easily.
- Can be used with home stereo or powered speakers.
- Full-color display with album art, channel logos, and graphics.
- Includes a remote control.
- Advanced music features, such as Tunestart, Tunemix, and Tunescan.
- 3 months of free All Access Service with subscription.
- Only available in black color.
- Corded electric power source.
- Product dimensions may be too small for some users.
2. SiriusXM SXSD2 Best Portable Satellite Radio For Car
The SiriusXM Bundle includes the SXEZR1V1 Onyx EZR Satellite Radio with a Vehicle Kit, providing 3 months of free All Access service with subscription. The Onyx EZR allows you to enjoy SiriusXM in your car and beyond, featuring 150+ channels in your vehicle and over 300+ channels online or on the app. The Vehicle Kit ensures easy installation through your existing vehicle stereo.
Additionally, the bundle includes the SXSD2 Portable Speaker Dock Audio System, featuring a 2.1 system with separate tweeters, midrange speakers, and a powerful subwoofer. The portable design with a fold-away handle and antenna cradle makes it convenient for on-the-go use. Control is made easy with the included remote.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM Bundle includes two amazing products that will give you the ultimate listening experience. The first is the SiriusXM SXEZR1V1 Onyx EZR Satellite Radio with Vehicle Kit. This radio allows you to enjoy SiriusXM Satellite Radio in your car and beyond with this Dock and Play radio. It comes with 3 months free All Access service with subscription, and it's easy to install. You'll get access to 150+ channels in your car and over 300+ channels online or on the app.
- Comes with 3 months of free All Access service with a subscription.
- Easy to install in your car with the included PowerConnect Vehicle Kit.
- A portable speaker dock audio system included for use outside of the car.
- Access to over 150 channels in the car and over 300 channels online or through the app.
- Advanced technology features, such as TuneStart, TuneMix, game and score alerts, and One-Touch Jump.
- 15-dollar activation fee and credit card required to take advantage of the 3-month free offer.
- May require a clear view of the sky for optimal signal acquisition.
3. SiriusXM SXWB1AZV1 Portable Satellite Radio For Car
The product is a SiriusXM Tour Radio with 360L technology, offering a unique listening experience by combining satellite and streaming services. It provides personalization, access to numerous SiriusXM channels, and 3 months of free Platinum service. Advanced features include voice search, real-time sports updates, and the ability to create Pandora stations.
The radio supports Bluetooth audio connectivity and offers listening flexibility with optional accessories. It promises ad-free music, exclusive entertainment, comedy, news, and more, making it an all-in-one solution for diverse audio preferences.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM Tour + Vehicle Kit is the perfect solution for car owners who want to enjoy SiriusXM satellite radio without having to purchase a new car stereo. This kit includes a Tour Radio that can be installed easily in almost any vehicle, and comes with a magnetic mount antenna and vehicle dock. It also has a power adapter, mounting accessories, and an AUX-in cable.
- SiriusXM 360L technology provides personalization and access to a wide range of channels.
- Choice of 3 months free or 12 months for $99 of the Platinum Programming Package.
- Advanced features such as Pandora stations, voice search, and real-time sports updates.
- Supports Bluetooth audio streaming and various listening options (FM stereo, home Wi-Fi, camping, etc.).
- Comes with a vehicle kit and mounting accessories.
- Requires a vehicle or mobile phone Wi-Fi hotspot for vehicle use, and home Wi-Fi for home use.
- FMDA25 adapter and SXDH4 home kit are sold separately.
- Additional fees and taxes apply to the programming package.
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4. ChargerCity Satellite Radio
The ChargerCity SiriusXM Radio Mount is an all-in-one solution for mounting and charging your SiriusXM PowerConnect Dock in your vehicle. It features a dual USB 5V lighter charger socket, a USB charging cable adapter, and a single tab mounting pattern connector.
Compatible with various SiriusXM PowerConnect docks, including Onyx Plus, Onyx EZ EZR, Onyx, Edge, Stratus, Sportster, and more. Please note that this product is designed for PowerConnect vehicle docks only (dock and radio unit not included). ChargerCity offers a one-year direct manufacturer replacement warranty.
Product Overview:
The ChargerCity Dual USB Sirius XM Satellite Radio Car Truck Lighter Socket Mount is a great all-in-one solution for those who want to mount and charge their SiriusXM Radio. The mount comes with a dual USB 5V lighter charger socket, a USB charging cable adapter, and a single tab mounting pattern connector. It is compatible with PowerConnect docks, Onyx Plus SXPL1V1, Onyx EZ EZR, Onyx, Edge, Stratus 7, 6, 5, Stratus, Sportster 5, Starmate 8, 5, 4, 3, XpressRCi, XpressRC, XpressR and more. It is important to note that the dock and radio unit is not included. The mount is designed for convenience and ease of use.
- All-in-one SiriusXM Radio mounting and charging solution
- Dual USB 5V Lighter Charger Socket
- Compatible with a wide range of SiriusXM Radio docks
- Comes with USB Charging Cable adapter & Single Tab mounting pattern connector
- One-year direct manufacture replacement warranty included.
- Only compatible with SiriusXM PowerConnect dock
- Vehicle dock is not included
5. UNITOPSCI Car Multimedia Player
The UNITOPSCI Car MP5 Player with a digital touch screen, providing a 1080P full HD visual experience. It supports Android screen mirroring but does not have GPS. The device features built-in Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming and hands-free calls. It is compatible with various media playback formats, including MP5 and MP3, through Bluetooth, USB, and SD ports.
The car radio has a built-in FM radio receiver with high-performance digital tuning. Additionally, it supports a car parking system with automatic parking mode activation. The package includes a remote controller and a steering wheel remote controller for added convenience.
Product Overview:
The UNITOPSCI Double Din Car Stereo is an advanced car multimedia player with a 6.2 inch LCD touchscreen monitor, MP5 player, a WMA USB SD auxiliary input, and FM Radio with a backup camera and remote control. It has Bluetooth connectivity and is compatible with both iOS and Android, allowing users to make hands-free calls and stream audio wirelessly through their car speakers. The item weighs just 0.86 kilograms and measures 7 x 2.55 x 3.93 inches. This double-din car stereo has a variety of features that make it a great choice for any driver.
- Bluetooth and hands-free calling feature
- Video and audio playback through USB and SD ports
- FM car radio with 18 preset stations
- Backup camera and parking assistance
- High current USB output for charging mobile devices
- No GPS support
- No CD/DVD player
- Phone screen mirroring may not work for Samsung devices
6. SiriusXM Commander
The SiriusXM Satellite Radio allows you to enjoy SiriusXM through your vehicle's in-dash audio system. It features a color touchscreen display with album art, artist names, song titles, and channel logos. With the "All Access" package, you get both Satellite and Streaming services, and the device offers features like pause, rewind, replay, TuneStart, TuneMix, and real-time updates on Traffic & Weather.
It can connect to any radio with either an AUX input or an FM connection. Additionally, there's an offer for three months of free service with a subscription to the "All Access" package, requiring a $15 activation fee and credit card.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM Commander Touch is a revolutionary dash-mounted radio with an intuitive full-color touchscreen display. With this product, you can enjoy SiriusXM right through your car's audio system. For a limited time, you can get three months of free service by subscribing to the All Access package and mentioning "Never Miss a Beat." The All Access package is SiriusXM's best programming package and includes both Satellite and Streaming services. On the full-color display, you can see album art, artist and song titles, channel logos, and program information. You can pause, rewind, and replay live Satellite Radio and even start songs from the beginning with TuneStart.
- Enjoy SiriusXM through an in-dash audio system with touchscreen display controls.
- Three months of free service with a subscription to the “All Access” package.
- Full-color display with album art, artist name, song title, and program information.
- Pause, rewind, and replay live satellite radio.
- Connects to any radio with AUX input or FM connection.
- $15 activation fee and credit card are required for the free service offer.
- Only the “All Access” package is eligible for the free service offer.
- May not be compatible with all vehicles.
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7. SiriusXM SXEZR1V1
The Sirius SXEZR1V1 Onyx EZR Satellite Radio with a large high-resolution display (3.2 inches) that allows easy reading of artist or show names, song or program titles, and channel information. The device offers the "All Access" subscription package with 150+ channels, including both Satellite and Streaming services. It features a split-screen mode to view what's playing on favorite channels and allows users to store up to 10 preferred channels.
Additionally, there is an option to lock and unlock channels with mature content. The purchase includes a promotion for 3 months of free satellite and streaming service with a subscription. Please note that a $15 activation fee and credit card are required.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM SXEZR1V1 Onyx EZR Satellite Radio with Vehicle Kit is a top-of-the-line satellite radio system that provides users with access to over 150 channels of content. It features a large, high-resolution display measuring 3.2 inches, making it easy to read and see what’s playing. The display also shows the artist or show name, song or program title, and content or channel information. The radio also lets users store up to 10 of their favorite channels and lock and unlock channels with mature content. The radio comes with a 3-month free subscription to Sirius XM, which can be renewed yearly or monthly. After the free trial, users have to pay a fee for a subscription package.
- Subscription package includes both Satellite and Streaming service
- Get 3 Months of Free Service with a subscription
- Easy-to-read, large high-resolution display
- View what’s playing on your favorite channels in split-screen mode.
- Store up to 10 of your favorite channels and lock/unlock channels with mature content.
- Subscription sold separately by Sirius.
- Channel lineup varies based on the subscription package.
- $15 activation fee and credit card required to activate the offer.
8. SiriusXM SXV300v1
The SiriusXM Connect Satellite Radio Vehicle Tuner offers seamless integration with SiriusXM-ready car stereos, allowing users to pause, rewind, and replay up to 60 minutes of live satellite radio. It features TuneStart, which automatically starts songs from the beginning on favorite channels. Stay updated with Traffic & Weather Now for real-time information.
The compact size allows discreet installation behind the dash, providing a fully integrated look. Users can enjoy exclusive entertainment, and dedicated artist channels, and receive alerts for favorite songs or artists. The package includes the SXV300 tuner and a magnetic-mount antenna.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM SXV300V1 Satellite Radio Vehicle Tuner is an ideal choice for anyone looking to get the most out of their satellite radio experience in the car. This tuner is designed to be easily installed in any SiriusXM-ready car stereo, and it offers access to the entire SiriusXM network of channels. It features a single interface cable connection, making installation quick and easy. Plus, the compact size of this tuner easily hides away behind the dash for a fully integrated look.
- Comes with a 12-month service at $99 or 3 months free with a subscription.
- Ability to pause, rewind, and replay up to 60 minutes of live radio.
- TuneStart feature starts songs from the beginning on favorite channels.
- Traffic & Weather Now keeps users up to date with current updates.
- Offers access to exclusive entertainment and channels from popular artists.
- The antenna is sold separately.
- Subscription fee is required after the first 12 months or 3 free months.
- Some users may find the installation process complicated.
9. SiriusXM Satellite Radio
The SiriusXM Connect Vehicle Tuner Kit allows you to seamlessly integrate SiriusXM into any SiriusXM-Ready car stereo system. The compact tuner hides discreetly behind the dash for a sleek look. With advanced music features like TuneStart and TuneMix, it offers a personalized listening experience.
The kit includes a 3-month free subscription to All Access service. Installation is DIY-friendly, and you can enjoy over 150 channels in your car and 300+ channels online or on the app. SiriusXM provides ad-free music, exclusive entertainment, news, traffic, weather, and more.
Product Overview:
The SiriusXM SXV300AZV1 Connect Vehicle Tuner is the perfect solution for enjoying SiriusXM in your car. Its compact size allows it to be discreetly hidden behind the dash for a seamless and integrated look. With the tuner, you can access over 150 channels of satellite radio and over 300 channels online or on the app. You can enjoy advanced music features like TuneStart, TuneMix, and TuneScan for pausing, rewinding, and replaying up to 60 minutes of live satellite radio. Installation is quick and easy with the included antenna tool and single interface cable connection. The tuner is compatible with all SiriusXM-Ready car stereo receivers from leading manufacturers, just look for the SiriusXM-Ready logo.
- Compatible with all SiriusXM-Ready car stereo systems.
- Advanced music features including TuneStart, TuneMix, and TuneScan.
- Quick and easy DIY installation with included antenna tool and interface cable.
- Hides discreetly behind the dash for a fully-integrated look.
- Exclusive entertainment, sports, and ad-free music channels available.
- Subscription sold separately by SiriusXM.
- Activation fee and credit card required for promotional offer.
- Some car stereo receivers may not support all SiriusXM features.
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Guide to Pick The Right Portable Satellite Radio For Your Car in 2024
But what is a satellite radio of this type?
Although most of the newer vehicles come from the factory with satellite radio functionality, it is possible that you have an older vehicle that does not offer this feature. One way to add satellite radio to your car is to purchase such a receiver. Many of our recommended products are head units that replace the factory radio, adding more features and even better sound quality.
Swapping the head unit is one of the simplest ways to integrate satellite radio into the vehicle, but it comes at a cost. Some replacement head units are expensive and you will need to professionally install them if you don't know how to do it yourself, which is an additional cost. And if you want to have a rocking sound… you also need to install a great car amplifier and here you can find dozens of them.
Some of our options are cheaper and easier to integrate into your vehicle, and some can even be used in your home. The best thing about the current satellite radio receiver market is that there are many options to choose from.
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Why should you buy a car satellite radio?
If you drive a car and get bored due to endless travel, now I show you how to drastically improve this aspect. Satellite radio is a must for your car to make your travels more enjoyable. Car satellite radio is an audio device that works through a satellite. Hence, it is quite simple in its operation. There is considerable diversity in terms of channels and programs. Now, you will never get bored on the road if you install satellite radio in your vehicle.
One of the significant benefits of satellite radio is that it will give you an ad-free experience. Ads can crush your mood. Hence, every channel that is broadcast by satellite radio is almost ad-free. This way, you will enjoy smooth shipping. The quality of the satellite radio is almost perfect. You will hear the best quality audio wherever you go. Since it works via a satellite, you will receive similar reception wherever you go. You will not lose the connection and the transmission will be smooth, unlike an FM service.
The channels on XM and Sirius broadcast excellent stuff. Whether it's news, music, sports buzz, or entertainment, you'll get every update on time. If you are a person, who annoys horrible advertisements, you must consider installing a satellite radio in your vehicle. Aside from that, if you spend most of your time in the car, get the satellite radio for the car. Satellite radio is best for you if you drive alone. When there is no one to give you the right company, satellite radio will be your favorite.
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Is There An Alternative To Siriusxm For Cars?
Yes, there are alternative options for satellite radio in vehicles. Some popular alternatives include:
- HD Radio: a digital terrestrial radio service that offers multiple stations in one frequency.
- Streaming services: such as Spotify, Pandora, and Amazon Music, allow you to stream music and other audio content over the internet.
- AM/FM Radio: traditional analog radio that can still be found in most cars and can be used to listen to local and national radio stations for free.
Podcasts: audio content that can be downloaded or streamed from the internet and played on a smartphone or other device through a car's sound system.
Important features to consider before buying a car satellite radio.
Before buying a car satellite radio, it is important to consider the following features:
- Compatibility: Make sure the satellite radio is compatible with your car's audio system and can be easily installed.
- Subscription options: Consider the cost and availability of the different subscription packages offered by the satellite radio provider.
- Signal coverage: Check the satellite radio provider's coverage map to ensure that the signal is available in your area and the areas you frequently drive in.
- Channel selection: Make sure the satellite radio provider offers the types of channels you are interested in, such as music, sports, talk, and news.
- Display and controls: Consider the display and controls of the satellite radio, such as ease of use, readability, and the ability to pause, rewind, or save live content.
- Portable options: If you want to use the satellite radio in multiple vehicles or on the go, look for models that offer portable options, such as battery-powered portable radios or car kits.
- Cost: Take into account the cost of the satellite radio, the cost of the subscription, and any additional fees such as activation or installation fees.
By considering these features, you can make an informed decision on the best car satellite radio for your needs.
FAQs
Does Siriusxm Have A Portable Radio?
Yes, SiriusXM offers portable radios that can be used in vehicles, homes, or on the go. Examples include the Stratus, Onyx, and Sportster models.
Does Siriusxm Work Without Wifi?
Yes, SiriusXM works without WiFi. It is a satellite radio service that uses a network of satellites to broadcast its signal, allowing for nationwide coverage. In order to receive the SiriusXM signal, you need a SiriusXM radio and an active subscription, but you do not need a WiFi connection.
How Much Is Siriusxm Per Month In A Car?
The cost of a SiriusXM subscription for a car varies depending on the package and length of the subscription. On average, the monthly cost for a SiriusXM car subscription ranges from $5 to $20. Some popular packages include:
- Select: $5/month for over 150 channels, including music, talk, sports, and news.
- All Access: $20/month for over 200 channels, including all the Select channels, plus exclusive content not available on free services.
- Family Friendly: $15/month for over 150 channels, including music, talk, and family-friendly content.
Note: Special promotions and discounts may be available, so it is always best to check the SiriusXM website for the most up-to-date pricing.
Is Xm Radio The Same As Satellite?
Yes, XM Radio is the same as satellite radio. XM Radio was a separate company from Sirius, but in 2008 the two companies merged to become SiriusXM, the largest satellite radio company in the United States. SiriusXM offers a variety of music, talk, sports, and entertainment channels to subscribers through a network of satellites, making it a type of satellite radio.
What Are The Disadvantages Of Satellite Radio?
The disadvantages of satellite radio include:
- Cost: Subscribing to satellite radio can be more expensive than traditional radio or streaming services.
- Limited signal coverage: Although satellite radio offers nationwide coverage, there may be areas with limited or no signal, such as underground garages or rural areas with weak signals.
- Equipment: To receive satellite radio, you need a satellite radio receiver and an active subscription. This can add extra costs and equipment to your car's audio system.
- Dependence on satellites: A satellite radio system relies on a network of satellites to deliver its signal, which can be affected by weather conditions or other issues that may disrupt the signal.
- Fewer local stations: While satellite radio offers a wide variety of nationwide channels, it may lack the local flavor and variety of traditional radio stations.
Note: It is important to weigh the benefits and disadvantages of satellite radio to determine if it is the right choice for your needs.
What is satellite radio and how does it work?
Car satellite radio is a broadcasting service that works with the help of a satellite. Through the satellite, audio signals are transmitted over a large geographical area. The area covered by a satellite radio is much more than a normal, conventional terrestrial radio service.
Is satellite radio better than FM?
Satellite radio is much more superior to an FM radio. There are various channels that can only be heard via satellite radio. Aside from that, the quality easily beats FM. The satellite transmits long-range signals. So wherever you go, you will receive similar reception, which is not the case with FM. However, you have to pay a hefty amount for using the services of a satellite radio while FM is free. However, if you consider satellite radio, you will be offered numerous benefits.
Is there a difference between Sirius radio and XM?
There is a difference between Sirius and XM radio in terms of programming. Programs broadcast on Sirius may not be available on XM. However, the latest SiriusXM offers “XTRA” channels which are not available on older units. This is the only significant change between Sirius and XM.
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What is the difference between satellite radio and internet radio?
Satellite radios are specially designed for vehicles. You can tune in to satellite radio while driving. Whereas, internet radio is capable of providing the broadcast service directly to cell phones, iPods, tablets, and laptops. An Internet radio, as its name clearly implies, uses an Internet connection to provide the services. While satellite radio uses signals from a satellite to function, satellite radio will also be more expensive than Internet radio.
Hi, I am David Bailey a dedicated writer from Linden Bridge School with a degree in mechanical engineering and a degree in marketing. I strive to simplify complex subjects and like to explain complex and technical matters in an easy-to-understand manner. Read More Here