Struggling with flat, uninspiring sound in your car? Many drivers find that even their favorite songs don’t quite hit the mark on standard car speakers, leaving bass lines weak and vocals drowned out. Upgrading to a good car subwoofer can transform your driving experience, making every trip a concert on wheels.
Finding the right subwoofer isn’t always straightforward, though. With so many options, it can be tough to know which one will give you that rich, deep bass that makes music come alive. In this guide, we will help you navigate through the best car subwoofers on the market, ensuring you pick one that matches your audio desires and budget.
Top 3 Factors To Consider:
- Subwoofer Size: Subwoofer sizes typically range from 8 to 15 inches. A larger subwoofer generally produces deeper bass, but it’s crucial to choose a size that fits your vehicle and sound preferences.
- Power Handling: Power handling is measured in watts and indicates how much power the subwoofer can handle. Look for RMS ratings for continuous power and peak ratings for bursts, ensuring you select a sub that can perform well without distortion.
- Enclosure Type: The enclosure affects sound quality significantly. Sealed enclosures deliver tight, accurate bass, while ported enclosures enhance loudness and low-frequency response. Your choice will depend on your music style and desired sound characteristics.
Best Car Subwoofers Compared
| Car Subwoofers | Power Handling (RMS) | Subwoofer Size | Buy Now | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rockville RW10CA Car Subwoofer | 200W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| BOSS CXX8 Car Subwoofer | 300W | 8" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| Sound Storm LOPRO10 Car Subwoofer | 600W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| Skar Audio SDR-1X10D2 Car Subwoofer | 600W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| Kicker 46HS10 Car Subwoofer | 180W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| JBL BassPro SL Car Subwoofer | 125W | 8" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| Skar Audio IX-10 D4 Car Subwoofer | 200W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| Belva BPKG210v2 Car Subwoofer | 500W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| BOSS Audio Systems BAB8 Car Subwoofer | 800W | 8" inches | Check On Amazon | |
| Seventour ST-800 Car Subwoofer | 220W | 10" inches | Check On Amazon |
Best Car Subwoofers Reviews
1. Rockville RW10CA Car Subwoofer
When we got our hands on the Rockville RW10CA 10” slim subwoofer, the first thing we noticed was how easy it was to install, especially for a subwoofer that packs this much power. The compact size makes it ideal for cars with limited space, and it’s an all-in-one system with a built-in amp, so you won’t need to deal with any external equipment. We were impressed with the overall power it brought to the table, boasting 800 watts peak and 200 watts RMS, which translates to a solid, punchy bass experience.
We also appreciated the added features like the low pass filter and bass boost, which lets you fine-tune the sound exactly to your liking. While testing it out, the subwoofer showed consistent performance, and the 10” woofer had a clean, controlled sound with little distortion, even at higher volumes. The remote control feature is a nice touch, allowing quick adjustments while driving without messing around with head unit settings.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 10 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 800 Watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 200 Watts
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 150Hz
- Sensitivity: 90dB @ 1w/1m
- Impedance: 2 Ohms
- Low Pass Filter: 50Hz – 150Hz
- Bass Boost: 0-18dB @ 45Hz
- Phase Switch: 0° or 180°
- Subsonic Filter: 29Hz
- Dimensions: 12.4” x 13.4” x 2.7”
- Weight: 14.3 pounds
- Input Voltage: 12 Volts
Pros:
- 800 watts peak power for strong bass output
- Easy installation with auto turn-on tech
- Remote control for adjusting bass levels
- Multiple protection circuits for durability
Cons:
- No built-in amplifier
2. BOSS CXX8 Car Subwoofer
We gave the BOSS CXX8 a go, and it turns out this little 8-inch sub packs a punch, especially for its price range. With 600 watts of peak power, it’s perfect for someone who’s looking for an affordable bass upgrade without needing to break the bank. Unlike bigger subs like the Rockville RW10CA, the CXX8 is easier to fit in tight spaces but still offers that satisfying rumble. It’s not going to shake the windows of your car like larger models, but for an 8-inch sub, it performs pretty well.
One thing we liked about this sub is its durability. The polypropylene cone and rubber surround can take a lot of abuse, and it’s clear that this sub is built to last. The stamped basket also provides excellent support and absorbs much of the vibration. We found that the CXX8 could handle long play sessions without showing any signs of fatigue, which is impressive given its low price point. In terms of sound quality, we noticed that it’s great for those who want tight bass without overwhelming their system.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 8 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 600 Watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 300 Watts
- Frequency Response: 49Hz – 3kHz
- Sensitivity: 83dB @ 1w/1m
- Impedance: 4 Ohms
- Voice Coil: High-temperature resistant
- Dimensions: 25” x 8.25” x 4.3”
- Weight: 05 pounds
- Cone Material: Polypropylene
- Surround Material: Rubber
- Mounting Depth: 75 inches
Pros:
- Durable polypropylene cone
- Rubber surround allows for heavy use
- A stamped metal basket absorbs vibrations well
- High-temperature resistant voice coil
Cons:
- Lacks advanced filtering options
3. Sound Storm LOPRO10 Car Subwoofer
With a built-in amplifier and peak power of 1200 watts, the Sound Storm LOPRO10 subwoofer is made for those who need big sound in a small space. It delivers a lot for the price, especially if you’re working with tight space in your car. We tried it out in a small sedan, and it fit perfectly under the seat without any issues. The low-profile design is its biggest selling point, making it a good choice for cars that don’t have room for a traditional subwoofer.
One of the highlights here is the MOSFET power supply. It’s not just a marketing term—it actually helps with power efficiency and keeps the sound clean even when you push the sub hard. We also liked the variable low-pass filter, which lets you control the bass range. This gives you more control over your audio and prevents the sub from trying to handle frequencies it wasn’t meant to reproduce. With the included remote control, you can easily adjust the bass without fiddling with the main unit, a feature we found convenient while driving.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 10 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 1200 Watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 600 Watts
- Frequency Response: 150 Hz
- Impedance: 6 Ohms
- Enclosure Type: Sealed
- Low Pass Filter: Variable
- Bass Boost: Variable
- Amplifier Type: Built-in MOSFET amp
- Dimensions: 5″ x 11″ x 3″
- Weight: 13 pounds
- Input Type: High-level (speaker), Low-level (RCA)
- Impedance: 6 Ohms
Pros:
- Built-in amplifier simplifies installation
- MOSFET power supply offers efficient performance
- Variable low-pass filter for better sound control
- Remote subwoofer level control included
Cons:
- Plastic enclosure feels cheap
4. Skar Audio SDR-1X10D2 Car Subwoofer
The Skar Audio SDR-1X10D2 delivers deep, impactful bass that hits hard with 1200 watts of peak power and 600 watts RMS. This one’s for people who are serious about their sound. Unlike more compact models like the Sound Storm LOPRO10, the SDR-1X10D2 is housed in a vented enclosure, which means you get a richer, fuller bass. We tested it in a hatchback, and the difference was night and day compared to smaller, sealed units.
The double front baffle with a countersunk design makes the subwoofer look sleek and professional, while also improving durability. The enclosure is made from 5/8” MDF, which feels rock-solid and helps reduce unwanted vibrations. We found the bass from the SDR-1X10D2 to be powerful and clean, even at higher volumes. It’s a step up from budget models in both sound quality and build, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among car audio enthusiasts.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 10 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 1200 Watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 600 Watts
- Impedance: 1 Ohm (final)
- Enclosure Type: Vented
- Sensitivity: 4 dB
- Woofer Diameter: 10 inches
- Enclosure Material: 5/8″ MDF
- Front Baffle Thickness: 25 inches
- Design: Double baffle, countersunk subwoofer
- Dimensions: 25” D x 18.5” W x 14.65” H
- Weight: 9 pounds
Pros:
- Pre-wired for 1-ohm final impedance
- MDF enclosure reduces vibrations
- The vented enclosure provides deeper bass
- Double baffle design improves durability
Cons:
- Heavier than similar subwoofers
5. Kicker 46HS10 Car Subwoofer
At just over three inches tall, the Kicker 46HS10 subwoofer fits easily under most car seats or in small spaces. Despite its slim design, the built-in 180-watt amplifier delivers solid bass that enhances your music without overwhelming the system. If you’re looking for an upgrade from stock speakers with minimal hassle, this is a strong option. Installation is also made easy with its quick-connect Molex plug, meaning you can get it up and running without being a wiring expert.
The remote bass control is a welcome feature, especially if you like adjusting your bass levels on the fly without fiddling with your head unit. We liked how easy it was to control the sound quality, and it fills in the gaps nicely for most genres. The build quality is solid with an aluminum body, giving it a durable feel, even though it’s lightweight at just 10 pounds. This product is for those who want a noticeable improvement in bass without sacrificing a lot of space or diving into complicated installs.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 10 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 180 watts
- Amplifier Power: Built-in 180-watt amplifier
- Frequency Response: 120 Hz
- Enclosure Type: Sealed
- Input Voltage: 40 volts
- Mounting Type: Plug mount
- Material: Aluminum
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Audio Output Mode: Mono
- Dimensions: 38″ D x 9.88″ W x 3.13″ H
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Remote Control: Included
- Connectivity Protocol: Bluetooth
Pros:
- Quick-connect Molex plug makes installation simple
- The sealed enclosure keeps the bass tight and controlled
- Remote bass control included
- Durable aluminum body
Cons:
- A bit pricey for its power level
6. JBL BassPro SL Car Subwoofer
The JBL BassPro SL has an efficient 125-watt RMS Class D amplifier. This powered under-seat subwoofer packs more of a punch than you might expect from its compact size. We tested it in a compact sedan, and it fit perfectly under the seat without taking up much space. Installation was pretty straightforward, and the soft-start feature ensures that it kicks on smoothly without any harsh power surges.
Compared to other subs in this category, the JBL BassPro SL is a solid option for those who value precision and clarity over sheer power. The bass it delivers is tight and controlled, which is ideal for genres like rock or classical. It’s got enough power to fill a small to medium-sized car with decent bass, but it won’t satisfy users who are after that deep, booming sound. In terms of build quality, the JBL BassPro SL feels solid and well-constructed. The unit is small and unobtrusive, and it’s nice that it weighs only 2.17 pounds.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 8 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 250 watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 125 watts
- Amplifier Type: Class D
- Mounting Type: Under-seat mount
- Dimensions: 84″ D x 13.54″ W x 2.8″ H
- Weight: 17 pounds
- Remote Control: Optional, wired remote control available
- Special Features: Soft-start, speaker-level inputs with auto-on
- Connectivity Technology: RCA, Auxiliary
- Maximum Range: 20 meters
Pros:
- Class D amplifier is an efficient and powerful
- Optional remote control for easy bass adjustments
- The soft-start feature prevents power surges
- Under-seat mounting keeps the subwoofer out of sight
Cons:
- Lacks the power of larger subwoofers
7. Skar Audio IX-10 D4 Car Subwoofer
At first glance, it’s clear that the Skar Audio IX-10 D4 subwoofer is made for people who need good bass without breaking the bank or taking up too much room in their car. One of the standout features we noticed was its high-strength pressed paper cone with a foam surround. We also liked the 2-inch premium voice coil that helps the sub stay cool, even when you push it a little harder than usual. In terms of value, you’re getting a lot of bang for your buck with this subwoofer.
One thing we really appreciated about this sub is its size. With a mounting depth of just 4.85 inches, it fits into tight spots that larger subs would struggle with. This makes it an ideal option for anyone with limited space but still wants to enhance their car’s audio system. In our tests, we found it worked best in sealed enclosures, providing more accurate and punchy bass, although you might lose some volume compared to ported boxes.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: 10 inches
- Power Handling (Peak): 400 watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 200 watts
- Voice Coil: 2-inch BASV Premium
- Cooling Design: Advanced Air Flow
- Cone Material: High-strength pressed paper
- Surround Material: Foam
- Frequency Response Range: 28 Hz – 325 Hz
- Sensitivity: 4 dB
- Mounting Depth: 85 inches
- Impedance: Dual 4 Ohms
- Product Dimensions: 5″ D x 11.5″ W x 8″ H
- Weight: 9 pounds
- Subwoofer Diameter: 10 inches
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 4 dB
Pros:
- Dual 4-ohm voice coils offer flexibility in wiring options
- Solid build quality with a pressed paper cone
- Compact design with shallow mounting depth
- Doesn’t require a high-power amp to drive
Cons:
- Sound can distort if pushed too hard
8. Belva BPKG210v2 Car Subwoofer
The Belva BPKG210v2 is an all-in-one solution for upgrading your car’s bass. It comes with dual 10-inch subwoofers, a monoblock amplifier, a ported enclosure, and even a full wiring kit, so you’re not left running around for extra components. For the price, it’s hard to argue with what you’re getting here, especially since the total package promises up to 1000 watts of peak power. We found that the subs hit pretty hard for an entry-level system, and the ported enclosure does a good job of amplifying that deep bass sound.
While the system claims 1000 watts peak, the amp delivers 500 watts RMS at 2 ohms, which is where it’s most comfortable. We noticed that the system does well with bass-heavy music genres like hip-hop and EDM. The bass is loud and deep, though it can get a little muddy at higher volumes. The remote bass knob is a nice touch for adjusting the levels without messing with the amp directly, and the 8-gauge wiring kit makes installation relatively painless.
Specifications:
- Subwoofer Size: Dual 10 inches
- Peak Power: 1000 watts
- RMS Power: 500 watts at 2 ohms
- Amplifier Type: Class A/B monoblock
- Cone Material: Polypropylene
- Surround Material: Rubber
- Enclosure Type: Ported
- Magnet Type: Ferrite, 37 oz
- Wiring Kit: 8-gauge
- Bass Boost: Up to +12dB
- Remote Bass Control: Yes
- Enclosure Material: 3/4″ MDF
- Dimensions: 5″D x 15.5″W x 13″H
- Weight: 8 pounds
- Subwoofer Impedance: 2 ohms
- Port Design: Precision CNC cut
Pros:
- Ported enclosure enhances low-end output
- Polypropylene cones are durable
- Rubber surrounds ensure long-lasting performance
- Remote bass knob for easy adjustments
- Ferrite magnets help maintain strong performance
Cons:
- Sound quality lacks refinement
9. BOSS Audio Systems BAB8 Car Subwoofer
One of the cool features of the the BOSS Audio Systems BAB8 is the Pulse Width Modulated technology. It helps the subwoofer to be more efficient by controlling the output voltage and current effectively. This means you get a solid performance without the bulk, allowing for a lighter and more reliable unit overall. The variable low-pass filter is also a great addition, helping you cut out the high notes that you don’t want muddying your bass. These controls allow for some customization, making it easier to get the sound just right for your taste.
The built-in amplifier, with a max output of 800 watts, means you don’t need to worry about buying an extra amp to power your bass. Its slim design makes it perfect for smaller vehicles, which can be a challenge for traditional subwoofers. We were pleased to see that it can easily fit under seats or in tight spots, which is a big plus for anyone who needs to save space without sacrificing sound quality. We did appreciate the different input options available with the BAB8. You have high-level inputs for connecting to factory radios or aftermarket ones that lack RCA outputs, as well as low-level RCA inputs for more traditional setups.
Specifications
- Speaker Maximum Output Power: 800 Watts
- Frequency Response: 500 Hz
- Connectivity Technology: RCA
- Audio Output Mode: Surround
- Item Weight: 6 pounds
- Item Dimensions: 25″D x 12″W x 2.94″H
- Impedance: 6 Ohms
- Power Source: Electric
- Speaker Size: 8 inches
- Enclosure Type: Sealed
- Material Type: Polypropylene
- Controller Type: Remote Control
- Maximum Range: 8 inches
Pros:
- Built-in amplifier eliminates the need for additional hardware
- Solid sound quality for casual listeners
- Comes with a remote bass knob
- Efficient power use with PWM technology
- Variable low-pass filter for tuning sound
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with a protective grill
10. Seventour ST-800 Car Subwoofer
After testing out the Seventour ST-800, we found it to be a fantastic option for anyone looking to enhance their car audio experience without taking up too much space. This subwoofer packs a punch with its 10-inch size and built-in amplifier, offering a peak power of 800 watts. The sleek design allows it to fit neatly under your seat, which is perfect for people who need more bass but don’t want to sacrifice cargo space or aesthetics. If you’re someone who often travels with friends or family, this is a good pick for making those road trips more enjoyable.
When you turn on your vehicle, the subwoofer lights up, adding a cool, modern touch to your car’s interior. It’s not just about the sound; the aesthetics can make a difference too. Plus, the subwoofer comes with a remote control that allows you to adjust the gain, bass boost, and crossover settings. This is a big deal for those who want quick access to sound tuning while driving, without having to fiddle with knobs or switches while on the road.
Specifications
- Speaker Maximum Output Power: 800 Watts
- Power Handling (RMS): 220 Watts
- Frequency Response: 20Hz – 500Hz
- Impedance: 4 Ohms
- Connectivity Technology: RCA, Auxiliary, USB
- Item Weight: 84 kg
- Item Dimensions: 5″L x 10.2″W x 2.7″H
- Bass Boost: 0 – 12dB @ 45Hz
- Signal to Noise Ratio: >90dB
- Input Sensitivity (Low Level): 300mV
- Input Sensitivity (High Level): 9V
- Material Type: Aluminum
- LED Light: Blue ambient light
Pros:
- Built-in amplifier saves space and complexity
- Slim design allows for under-seat installation
- Stylish LED light enhances aesthetics
- Thermal protection ensures safety during use
Cons:
- Limited low-end performance compared to larger subs
Choosing The Right Subwoofer For Your Car: Key Considerations
Upgrading your car’s audio system starts with choosing the right subwoofer. A good subwoofer adds depth and richness to the sound, especially for those deep, low-end frequencies that standard speakers just can’t handle. But with so many options available, it’s important to know what to look for so you can get the best experience for your specific needs.
Subwoofer Size: What Works For Your Car?
The size of the subwoofer is a key factor when deciding what’s best for your setup. Subwoofers come in different sizes, typically measured by the diameter of the cone in inches, and each size has its own strengths. Here’s a quick guide:
- 8 inches: Perfect if you’ve got a smaller car or if you’re just looking for subtle bass. It won’t overpower your sound but still gives that low-end boost.
- 10 inches: If you’re after a balance between deep bass and saving space, this is a solid choice for most vehicles.
- 12 inches: The most common size for everyday cars. It provides that punchy bass without taking up too much room.
- 15 inches: Best if you want booming bass and have a larger vehicle. This size delivers serious power and volume.
Think about the size of your car and how much bass you actually want when deciding on subwoofer size.
Power Handling: How Much Power Is Enough?
When it comes to power handling, you’ll see terms like RMS and peak watts thrown around. Understanding these will help you choose a subwoofer that fits your needs without straining your system.
- RMS Power: This refers to the continuous power your subwoofer can handle. The higher the RMS rating, the better the performance. For example, a subwoofer with a 200W RMS can run smoothly at that power level all day.
- Peak Power: This is the maximum power your sub can handle in short bursts, like when your favorite song’s bass drops. A peak power rating of 800W means the sub can handle that surge of power without blowing out.
If you’re someone who likes to crank up the volume, opt for a subwoofer with higher RMS and peak ratings to ensure it can handle your music without distortion.
Enclosure Type: Sealed Or Ported?
Next up is the enclosure type. The box your subwoofer sits in has a big impact on how it sounds. The two main types of enclosures are sealed and ported, and both have their pros and cons.
- Sealed Enclosures: These boxes give you tight, precise bass. They’re great if sound quality is your priority and you want more accurate bass. Sealed boxes are typically compact, so they’re also a good fit if space is limited.
- Ported Enclosures: If you’re after louder, deeper bass and don’t mind taking up more space, ported boxes are the way to go. These enclosures let the bass travel further and give you that heart-pounding low-end that’s perfect for bass-heavy music.
Think about whether you want quality or quantity when it comes to bass, and opt for the enclosure that matches your listening style.
Sensitivity: Getting The Most Out Of Your Subwoofer
Sensitivity is all about how efficiently your subwoofer turns power into sound, and it’s measured in decibels (dB). Higher sensitivity means your sub can get louder without needing as much power.
- Low Sensitivity (Below 85 dB): These subs need more power to produce sound, so they’re better for higher-powered systems.
- Medium Sensitivity (85-90 dB): This is the sweet spot for most setups, offering a balance between power and performance.
- High Sensitivity (Above 90 dB): Ideal if you have a less powerful amp but still want good volume. A sub with higher sensitivity will play louder without draining your system’s power.
When deciding on sensitivity, consider how much power your amp can deliver and whether you need that extra volume boost.
Impedance: Matching Your Subwoofer And Amplifier
Lastly, impedance is something you’ll want to look at. Impedance, measured in ohms, affects how much power your subwoofer pulls from the amplifier.
- 2 Ohms: These subs pull more power and give you more volume but might put extra stress on your amp.
- 4 Ohms: The most common impedance for car audio systems, this strikes a good balance between power usage and sound quality.
- 8 Ohms: These subs draw less power, making them a good choice if you’re working with a more sensitive or low-powered system.
Make sure you’re matching the subwoofer’s impedance to your amplifier’s capabilities. Getting this wrong could result in poor sound quality or even damage to your system.
FAQs:
The size of the subwoofer depends on your car’s space and your bass preferences. Common sizes range from 8 to 15 inches, with larger sizes generally providing deeper bass.
Power handling is measured in RMS and peak watts. Look for a subwoofer with an RMS rating that matches or exceeds your amplifier’s output for optimal performance.
Sealed enclosures provide tighter, more accurate bass, while ported enclosures produce louder and deeper bass. Your choice should depend on your sound preference.
Sensitivity indicates how efficiently a subwoofer converts power into sound. Higher sensitivity means more volume with less power, making it ideal for lower-powered amplifiers.
Impedance, measured in ohms (Ω), represents the resistance a subwoofer offers to current. Common ratings are 2, 4, and 8 ohms, and they should match your amplifier for best results.
Yes, you can use multiple subwoofers, but ensure your amplifier can handle the total load. The combined impedance of the subwoofers should match the amplifier’s output specifications.
The amplifier should match the subwoofer’s RMS rating and impedance. Class D amplifiers are popular for subwoofers due to their efficiency and power handling capabilities.
Yes, an enclosure enhances the sound quality and performance of your subwoofer. Choose a design (sealed or ported) that fits your audio goals.
Installation can be done by connecting the subwoofer to an amplifier and securing it in a suitable enclosure. If you’re unsure, consider seeking professional installation.
The ideal placement varies, but common locations include the trunk or under seats. Aim for a position that allows for proper airflow and maximizes sound quality throughout the vehicle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we hope this guide provides valuable insights into the world of car subwoofers, empowering you to make an informed decision tailored to your specific audio needs and preferences. With a better understanding of key factors such as size, power handling, enclosure type, sensitivity, and impedance, you’re now equipped to enhance your driving experience with quality sound. Whether you’re a casual listener or a dedicated audiophile, the right subwoofer can significantly elevate your car audio setup.
