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?
Siriusly good features
This car radio stores up to 20 channels and lets you stop and restart songs. It alerts when your favorite songs are playing.
Comes with voice control
On top of listening to music and podcasts, you can use this radio to get hands-free directions and answering text messages.
Easy to customize
The JVC KW comes with built-in Bluetooth that can connect to up to two paired phones and stream music easily.
Best budget radio
The SiriusXM Stratus 7 includes the 'One-Touch' feature that jumps to traffic control and weather for any city.
Superb parental controls
This radio has Bluetooth connectivity and prevents children from listening to inappropriate content by adding passcodes.
Conversion kit
This radio receiver converts any FM radio into an XM radio. The large LCD screen displays station and artist information.
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.
