The one inexpensive tech item I can't drive without

There's a very specific frustration that comes with owning an older car. You spend your morning commute stuck in a loop of radio ads, flicking through static-filled channels just to find the one song you actually like.

You don't need to drop loads of money on integrating Bluetooth or Apple CarPlay into your car. All you need is at least $16 to buy a Bluetooth FM transmitter.

These work by plugging into your 12V cigarette lighter sockets to connect to your phone's Bluetooth, and then transmitting a radio frequency you can tune into straight from your car.

I've been using one of these daily for years, and while they aren't perfect, they are easily the best quality of life upgrade you can buy for an older vehicle.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of publishing.

Why the Scosche BTFreq is my unsung hero

Now $69.95 | Kogan

The Scosche BTFreq has been permanently sitting in my trusty Corolla for the past few years, and it's been my saviour for long trips. It features Bluetooth connection, built-in dual 12W USB-A ports and tactile buttons and knobs to control the volume and songs.

The setup for this piece of tech is remarkably straightforward. You plug it into the 12V socket, find a dead frequency (usually one with a ton of static), and match the device with the same number.

Following that, you can pair your phone with the Bluetooth device, and you're good to be the DJ of your own radio station!

The audio you get is surprisingly good quality for a makeshift FM signal, though it does have its limits. If you're driving through the heart of a city, say Sydney's CBD, you are going to encounter some static and noise that the device simply can't cut through.

However, once you're out of the skyscraper's shadows and onto open roads, motorways, suburban streets and elsewhere, it's smooth audio all the way.

Another thing to note with the Scosche FM transmitter is that after several years of almost daily use, the tactile buttons and controls have worn out.

It's definitely something to keep in mind if you hate yelling "Hey Siri" to skip the song, but so long as the primary function still works, it's a working product to me.

Other popular options

If the Scosche doesn't look like it'll quite fit your needs or budget, there are plenty of other options available to browse and shop.

Lencent 48W Adapter

Perfect for: faster charging

Order for $32.99

Lencent is a great value Bluetooth transmitter that boasts a 4.5-star rating on Amazon with over 77,000 reviews. It has a dedicated 30W USB-C port and 18W USB-A port to charge whatever device you may have. Plus, it uses Bluetooth 5.4 to offer a more stable connection in areas crowded with other signals.

Nulaxy NX12 FM Transmitter

Perfect for: bass boosting

Shop for $52.77

This device is a popular alternative if you want a super simple and minimalist block. It offers three fast-charging ports (including USB-C for modern phones) and uses Bluetooth 5.3 for a strong connection. Plus, there's also a dedicated bass-boost function if your car's speakers need a bit of help.

Anko Bluetooth FM Transmitter

Perfect for: tight budgets

Now $16 | Kmart

If you just want something to connect your device to your radio, then the Kmart Anko model is about as cheap as it gets at $16. It's basic, but the bare minimum features are there, like connecting your phone, skipping songs, and answering calls. Plus, it still has one USB charging port.

Nulaxy KM18 FM Transmitter

Perfect for: more display information

Now $44.25 | Amazon

This model's 1.44-inch LCD display is the standout feature, and it lets you see the name of the song playing, the incoming caller's number, and even your car's real-time battery voltage. I used to have this FM transmitter, although the built-in flexible gooseneck did get a bit annoying on bumpy roads – but it's great for compact cars or awkward angles to plug the transmitter into.

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