Best Car Satellite Radios in 2022

Stratus 7 in use
Stratus 7 in use (Image credit: SiriusXM)

Satellite radios may not seem like that big of a deal, especially living in a time where it's just as easy to use your phone data to listen to the music, radio channel, or podcast you want. But what happens when your phone's data runs out, or if the signal of your phone or FM radio is blocked? You're out of luck, that is, unless you have a car satellite radio, which has a strong enough signal to allow you to listen to music almost anywhere. That said, it begs the question: which car satellite radios are the best?

Bottom line

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You have to admit, car satellite radios are pretty cool. However, some are better than others when it comes to things such as 'specs' and 'features.' The best of these is the SiriusXM SXPL1V1 Onyx Plus. This radio has a cool touchscreen display that is easy to tap and go to your favorite radio station, stop, start or even restart a song. You can program the radio to tell you when it's time to tune into your favorite radio program or podcast, or when your favorite song is playing. It's also possible to create your own channel and save up to 20 of your favorite music and podcast lineups. For a few dollars more, you can purchase the home kit that lets you move the SiriusXM Onyx Plus radio station back and forth between your car and home.

For a more budget-friendly option, take a look at the SiriusXM Stratus 7. Despite the lower cost, this satellite radio not only tunes in to your favorite stations and lets you save up to 10 channels, but it also features One-Touch. This tool lets you tap into current weather and traffic conditions in any city through this radio.

To fully take advantage of all the features a satellite radio has to offer, you will need to subscribe to a SiriusXM service package. You do get up to three months of service for free with the purchase of any SiriusXM radio with the monthly subscription that kicks in afterward.

Nicole Johnston

Nicole writes for multiple Future Publishing brands covering topics from antivirus to kitchen appliances to SAS. She has over 15 years of research and writing experience, including eight years of testing and reviewing consumer products. Nicole earned bachelor’s degrees in both English and Political Science with a focus on empirical research. In her spare time, Nicole serves on several school councils and volunteers for a local arts board.