There are thousands of speakers available online and offline, making it tough to choose the best car speakers 2023.
A great pair of speakers are essential for every driver, as poor-quality speakers produce distorted and crackly sounds that will distract you from the road and give you a headache.
To help you choose the best pair of speakers for you and your vehicle, we’ve reviewed and tested 13 different car speakers.
Here are the 16 best car speakers for 2023.
Speaker Type | Brand | Sizes Available | Warranty | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Coaxial | 1. JBL | 4x4, 4x6, 5.25x5.25, 6x9, 6.5x6.5, GX302, GX642, GX600C | Yes | Check Price |
2. Infinity | 3.5x3.5, 3.75x3.75, 4x4, 4x6, 5.25x5.25, 6.5x6.5 | Yes | Check Price | |
3. Diamond Audio | 5.25x5.25, 6x9, 10x10 | Yes | Check Price | |
4. Harmony Audio | 3.5x3.5, 4x4, 4x6, 5.25x5.25, 6.5x6.5, 6x8, 6x9, 8x8 | Yes | Check Price | |
5. Rockford | 4x4, 5.25x5.25, 6x8, 6x9, 6.5x6.5, 6.75x6.75 | Yes | Check Price | |
6. JVC | 6.5x6.5, 6x8, 4x6, 6x9, 4x4, 5.25x5.25 | Yes | Check Price | |
Component | 7. SKAR | 6.5x6.5 speakers with tweeters | Yes | Check Price |
8. Diamond Audio | 6x9 or 5x7 component speakers, with tweeters and woofers. | Yes | Check Price | |
9. MTX | 5.25x5.25, 6.5x6.5, 6x8, 6x9 with woofer, and subwoofer | Yes | Check Price | |
10. Infinity | 3.5x3.5, 6.5x6.5, 6.75x6.75, 6x8, 6x9 with grilles, and spacers | Yes | Check Price | |
11. JBL | 4x4, 5.25x5.25, 6.5x6.5, 6x8, 6x9 with tweeters and crossovers | Yes | Check Price | |
12. Rockville | 6.5x6.5 or 8x8 speakers with tweeters, and subwoofers. | Yes | Check Price | |
13. Boss | 5.25x5.25 or 6.5x6.5 with tweeters, and woofers | Yes | Check Price |
Coaxial Speakers
Coaxial speakers are the most common type of car speakers available on the market today. These speakers are often called ‘full-range speakers’, as they can produce sound between 20 and 20,000 hertz.
Coaxial speakers are generally much cheaper than component speakers, and they come in a set ‘size’. This means you can easily buy them online after consulting with your car’s manual. Coaxial speakers are easily upgraded at home. They just require a little time, patience, and some tools. Here is our review of the best car speakers 2023 in the ‘coaxial’ category.
1. JBL Peak Power Coaxial Speakers
Winner Of Best Coaxial Car Speakers 2023
Brand: JBL
Price Range: $$$ per pair
Sizes Available: 4×4, 4×6, 5.25×5.25, 6×9, 6.5×6.5, GX302, GX642, GX600C
Warranty: Yes
Pros: The new JBL coaxial speakers have only been on the market for a matter of months, but are already making waves among audiophiles. These speakers are best known for their crisp sound and high-quality fabric and polypropylene makeup – making them an easy choice for the ‘Best Car Speaker For 2023’ title.
If you’re looking for a premium pair of speakers for an affordable price, JBL’s newest speaker set is for you. JBL speakers are a plug-and-play option, meaning they can be installed by hand or with help from a professional.
Unlike previous JBL models, the Peak Power speakers also come with adapters for tweeter installation.
Cons: While the JBL Peak Power speakers produce a crisp for their size, smaller speakers like this often offer a little less ‘bass’ than some drivers want. If you expect more ‘boom’ in your bass, we recommend pairing the JBL speakers with a pair of backseat woofers or subwoofers.
Rating: 9.5/10
2. Infinity Coaxial Speakers
Runner Up For Best Coaxial Car Speakers 2023
Brand: Infinity
Price Range: $$$ per pair
Sizes Available: 3.5×3.5, 3.75×3.75, 4×4, 4×6, 5.25×5.25, 6.5×6.5
Warranty: Yes
Pros: Infinity is a premium speaker brand for one key reason: quality. Infinity’s coaxial speakers deliver a signature sound not found in other car speakers, making them an easy runner up for the title of ‘Best Car Speakers 2023’
Infinity’s newest addition of coaxial speakers comes with several upgrades from previous models. They are manufactured inside the US with premium-grade materials and have a larger speaker-cone area than other models. This means these speakers have a greater sensitivity than other speakers, reproducing music exactly.
Cons: Infinity is a premium brand with a great reputation, meaning they charge a pretty penny for their speakers. While we believe Infinity speakers are well worth the investment, these speakers don’t suit everyone’s budget.
Rating: 9/10
3. Diamond Audio Coaxial Speakers
Brand: Diamond Audio
Price Range: $$$ per pair
Sizes Available: 5.25×5.25, 6×9, 10×10
Warranty: Yes
Pros: Diamond Audio is fresh onto the Amazon speaker scene in 2023, offering a new range of high-end speakers at an affordable price. While their speakers generally retail for thousands, these Amazon-only speakers are a great way to get a premium speaker without paying for a full system.
Reviewers have also found this speaker set to exceed their expectations, as they deliver a sound quality you wouldn’t find in lower-end or mid-range speakers. If you’re looking for high-end coaxial speakers on a budget, the Diamond Audio model is the best choice for you.
Cons: These speakers come with a warranty only when bought from Amazon or Diamond Audio directly.
Rating: 8/10
4. Harmony Audio Coaxial Speakers
Brand: Harmony Audio
Price Range: $ per pair
Sizes Available: 3.5×3.5, 4×4, 4×6, 5.25×5.25, 6.5×6.5, 6×8, 6×9, 8×8
Warranty: Yes
Pros: Harmony Audio manufactures its speakers in quite a unique way. Instead of relying on rubber and plastic, they use carbon fiber and silk to make lightweight speakers that last long term. Their coaxial speakers are no different.
The newest model of coaxial speakers delivers a great quality of sound, with a sensitivity of 92.2dB. These speakers are also quite flat with a mounting depth of 3 inches. This makes them perfect for vehicles with shallow speaker mounts.
While these speakers aren’t completely waterproof, they will stand some water – making them a great choice for wet climates.
Cons: Harmony Audio speakers are an upgrade from factory-fitted speakers, but they won’t deliver the same superior sound quality as premium quality speaker brands like JBL, Infinity, and Diamond Audio. If you’re looking to enhance the quality of these speakers we recommend pairing them with a woofer or subwoofer.
Rating: 7/10
5. Rockford Coaxial Speakers
Brand: Rockford Fosgate
Price Range: $$ per pair
Sizes Available: 4×4, 5.25×5.25, 6×8, 6×9, 6.5×6.5, 6.75×6.75
Warranty: Yes, if bought from an authorized seller
Pro’s: Rockford’s Coaxial Speaker range is surprisingly high quality for the price. Each speaker is made with polypropylene, rubber, and steel. This makes them quite durable long-term. While rubber is good for durability, some people notice a bit of extra ringing when music is played.
However, I can’t verify that. The bass on these speakers is decent, but I’d recommend buying a pair of subwoofers to enhance the bass if you like to rock while you roll. Overall, these speakers are affordable and reliable for drivers who want a durable, middle-of-the-range product.
Con’s: To get a warranty on this product you must get it from an authorized seller or Rockford directly. Depending on your vehicle, you may need to buy a hardness adapter – as these speakers only have wires.
Rating: 6/10
6. JVC Coaxial Speakers
Best Coaxial Car Speakers Budget Buy
Brand: JVC
Price Range: $
Sizes Available: 6.5×6.5, 6×8, 4×6, 6×9, 4×4, 5.25×5.25
Warranty: Yes
Pros: JVC Coaxial Speakers are a fantastic budget buy. These speakers are made with rubber and fabric, making them dependable and durable. The speakers themselves are lightweight at 2.2 pounds but are sturdy enough to last long term. JVC’s speakers deliver a crisp and nice sound to the seat nearest to them but may need an extra speaker to give a surround sound experience.
These speakers also come with extra materials for installation, which is always appreciated.
Cons: JVC speakers are a great budget buy, but should be paired with a woofer, subwoofer, or tweeter to get a great range of sound.
Rating: 5/10
Component Speakers
If you’re an audiophile or you like your music with a bit of bass, component speakers are for you. While these speakers are more expensive, they are the premium choice. Depending on your vehicle, you may require mechanics assistance to install these. Component speakers fit into five neat categories – each of which produces sound at a different Hertz. These include:
Type of component speaker | Hertz range |
---|---|
Tweeters | 2,000 – 20,000 hertz |
Mid-Range | 300 – 5,000 hertz |
Woofers | 40 – 1,000 hertz |
Super Tweeters | 2,000 hertz + |
Subwoofers | 20 – 200 hertz |
Generally, component speaker sets are sold with mid-range speakers, and tweeters or subwoofers. Depending on your personal preference, you may opt to supplement the speaker set you buy with extra subwoofers and woofers. Ultimately, the type of speakers that work best for your car will depend on your listening habits. If you like base, go subwoofer or woofer. If you like jazz, make sure you get the tweeters.
Anyway, enough noise! Here is our review of the best car speakers sets available in the ‘component’ category.
7. SKAR Component Speakers
Winner Of Best Component Car Speakers 2023
Brand: SKAR
Price Range: $$$
Included: 6.5×6.5 speakers with tweeters
Warranty: Yes
Pros: SKAR’s component speakers are a superior choice for audiophiles or drivers with high standards for car speakers. SKAR was a well-known brand in the ‘90s but are still developing new speakers in 2023. While they may seem like a niche brand, SKAR really deserves their reputation as a speaker pioneer. For these reasons, we have given the SKAR Component System the title of ‘best car speakers 2023’ in the component category.
SKAR’s latest car speaker set comes with two premium 6×5” speakers, two high-quality tweeters, and two woofers, all of which can be installed in a matter of minutes.
This speaker set is definitely worth the extra cost, as it is manufactured with aluminum and comes with a lengthy warranty. The set also has a sensitivity of 92dB: delivering clean and beautiful sound in any vehicle.
Cons: SKAR speakers need to be worn-in before they reach their full capacity. Speaker sets are also only sold with just enough bolts and only one tweeter mounting option, meaning you may need extra materials to install these speakers in some vehicles.
Rating: 9.5/10
8. Diamond Audio Component Speakers
Runner Up For Best Component Car Speakers 2023
Brand: Diamond Audio
Price Range: $$$
Included: 6×9 or 5×7 component speakers, with tweeters and woofers.
Warranty: Yes
Pros: The Diamond Audio Component Speaker set has everything you need for a premium music setup. While their sets usually retail for thousands of dollars, the Amazon model is the perfect way to dip your toes into superior sound without the premium price tag. This speaker set is a great deal, including two-component speakers, tweeters, and subwoofers, plus everything you need for installation.
This speaker set has a frequency response between 60 Hz and 20,000 Hz, with a sensitivity of 84 dB – which will give you a superior surround-sound experience.
Diamond Audio products are still fresh to Amazon, meaning you can frequently catch them on sale and grab a bargain. As a bonus, Diamond Audio speaker sets are sold with an official LAB vinyl sticker – which we find to be a fun touch.
Cons: The magnet on the back of the speakers is quite large, so these speakers may not fit in every car that takes regular 6×9 speakers. Ensure you double-check the sizing of these speakers before purchasing.
Rating: 9/10
9. MTX Thunder Component Speakers
Brand: MTX
Price Range: $$$ per set
Sizes Available: 5.25×5.25, 6.5×6.5, 6×8, 6×9 with woofer, and subwoofer
Warranty: Yes
Pros: MTX’s thunder component speakers seldom receive the credit they deserve. MTX has been making speakers for over 40 years and they have definitely perfected the art. These speakers are loud, clear, and crisp: making them perfect for easy listening and mid-drive dance parties.
MTX’s thunder speakers also have a lot of bass and are sold with a subwoofer and tweeter.
Cons: MTX speakers are a bit bulky in the back, meaning they may not fit in smaller or shallower car doors. Before buying these speakers, ensure you double-check they will fit your vehicle.
Rating: 8.5/10
10. Infinity Two-Way Car Audio Component System
Brand: Infinity
Price Range: $$$
Sizes Available: 3.5×3.5, 6.5×6.5, 6.75×6.75, 6×8, 6×9
Included: This product includes 2 mid-range speakers, 2 grilles, and 2 spacers.
Warranty: Yes
Pros: Infinity’s Component Speakers are one of the most popular speaker types available on Amazon – and for good reason. These speakers are made with fabrics and fiberglass, making them incredibly durable. They include a 1-7/16 inch voice coil and have a sensitivity of 95 decibels.
As this system is available in a wide range of sizes, it will suit nearly every vehicle on the market. This system includes tweeters – which will really step up your car audio game, and if it fails you have a warranty to fall back on. If you like bass in your music, this system is a no-brainer of a purchase.
Cons: Infinity speakers are of great quality, but the range increases in price very quickly. However, if you’re an audiophile – the high price might be worth it for the result.
Rating: 8/10
11. JBL Premium Component Speaker System
Brand: JBL
Price Range: $$
Sizes Available: 4×4, 5.25×5.25, 6.5×6.5, 6×8, 6×9
Included: This system includes two mid-range component speakers, 2 tweeter component speakers, and 2 crossover speakers.
Warranty: Yes
Pros: JBL’s Premium Component Speaker System will definitely give you bang for your buck. This system is less expensive than the Infinity speaker set, but the quality is still there. The system gives quite a balanced sound, as it includes mid-range speakers, tweeters, and crossover speakers. The speakers are also made to keep the speakers breathable, with carbon-injected cones and large voice coils.
This means the speakers will use every watt your car’s base audio system has to offer. These speakers get a ‘b’ for ‘banging’, but they also produce crisp sound quality. With a warranty included these are a pretty good deal for the price. However, Infinity still delivers a higher quality component system. For the materials and the value for money, we’ve awarded the JBL speaker system the runner up position for ‘best car speakers 2023’.
Cons: If you are a casual music lover, these speakers are great. However, if you are in any way an audiophile you might find the quality of the tweeters disappointing for the price. The mid-range speakers also fail to deliver on lower-range sounds.
Rating: 8/10
12. Rockville Competition Component Speakers
Brand: Rockville
Price Range: $$ per set
Included: 6.5×6.5 or 8×8 speakers with tweeters, and subwoofers.
Warranty: No
Pros: Rockville is one of the best American speaker brands on the market today. They’ve been making speakers for years, and sell speakers in sets that perfectly complement each other. The competition set is no different, offering two-component speakers, two woofers (20 Hz – 3.5 kHz), and two tweeters (3.5 kHz – 20 kHz).
This speaker set is built with poly-glass, fabric, and gold-plated screws terminals, giving it a unique sound you won’t find in other speakers. These speakers are perfect for a wide range of drivers, from audiophiles to casual music listeners.
Cons: The Rockville Competition speakers produce a really high-quality sound, but come with no warranty and are only available in two sizes.
Rating: 8/10
13. BOSS Component Car Speakers
Best Component Speakers Budget Buy
Brand: BOSS Audio Systems
Price Range: $
Sizes Available: 5.25×5.25 or 6.5×6.5 with tweeters, and woofers
Warranty: Yes
Pros: BOSS’s component speakers are quickly becoming one of the best speaker options on Amazon. These speakers are built with polyurethane and rubber casing, making them extremely durable long-term. The speakers also use a voice coil that withstands high temperatures, making them perfect for hot and cold climates.
With these features and a stylish design, it’s no wonder the BOSS speakers come with a three-year warranty.
Cons: While BOSS speakers are available in tweeters, crossovers, and regular component speakers, BOSS is only selling two sizes in 2023: meaning they aren’t suitable for every vehicle.
Rating: 7/10
Car Speakers Explained
Car speaker systems might look confusing, but don’t be fooled. No matter the make and model of your car your speaker system will consist of the same three components. These include:
- The Base Unit
The base unit itself is the system on the dashboard – between the drivers and passenger seats. Its purpose is to act as the brains of the operation. When you push ‘play’ it sends an amplified electrical signal into the amplifier
2. The Amplifier
Inside the amplifiers, the signal from the base increased until it’s strong enough to move the speakers – creating sound.
3. The speakers
Finally, your speakers take the signal and convert it into mechanical energy. This allows the speakers to move back and forward, creating the vibrations that our brain translates into sounds.
Car speakers come in two types, both of which use a similar makeup to the image below.
- coaxial speakers.
- component speakers.
In this buyer’s guide, We’ll be judging speakers by their price, warranty, ease of installation, sizes available, and product quality. As prices are subject to change, we are using the following price guide.
Price Range (USD) | Symbol |
---|---|
Under $50 | $ |
$51 – $100 | $$ |
$100 – $200 | $$$ |
How To Choose The Best Car Speakers 2023
Now that we have reviewed the best car speakers in the ‘coaxial’ category, you might be wondering how to choose the right speaker for your vehicle. We understand the world of car speakers is very confusing – but really, all you have to do is answer these three questions:
- Would I prefer a coaxial or component system?
- What is my price range?
- What size do my speakers need to be?
Let’s talk about that last point – speaker size.
Choosing the right speaker size is really important. If you choose the wrong size, you will not be able to install the speaker into the body of your vehicle. Sizes change between vehicles, so you’ll need to check you have the right speaker size before you can choose the best car speakers for you.
You can find your speaker size by consulting your owner’s manual, or simply measuring the length and width of your current speakers. Remember that the size of speakers on your door and dash might be different – so double check! Standard speaker sizes for cars include 4×6, 4×4, 5.25×5.25, 5.5×5.5, 6×6, 6.5×6.5, 6×7, and 6×8.
How To Change Your Car Speakers
Now that we’ve talked about the best car speakers available, let’s cover how to change your car speakers at home. Changing your car speakers is easy – as long as you follow four clear steps and your speakers’ installation instructions.
Before starting, you’ll need to gather some tools. As each installation is different you may require different tools. Generally, the following tools are needed to change speakers.
- Your new speaker set.
- Screwdrivers and a Torx driver (or an electric drill).
- Socket wrench and an Allen wrench.
- A ‘panel popper’ tool (to extract speakers).
Step 1. Disconnect Your Car Battery
While changing your car speakers, you will have the doors of your vehicle open. This will drain your battery, leaving you unable to start your car. Leaving your battery attached can also short circuit the system, which can cause serious harm to you and your car.
Step 2. Remove Old Speakers
Before installing new speakers you will need to remove the old speakers. Speakers are mounted in the doors and dashboard of your vehicle. For specific placement, consult your owners manual. To remove speakers, remove the cover over each speaker. If your vehicle is old you may need to remove the entire door panel. If this is the case, be careful to disconnect any electrical connections carefully.
Carefully, unscrew the screws holding the speaker into the door. You may need to pry the speaker out with a ‘panel popper tool’. You will also need to disconnect the electrical connection before the speaker is fully extracted.
TIP: To ensure you don’t lose any screws, place them in a small container.
Step 3. Install New Speakers
Before installing your new speakers, ensure they are the right size by testing them in the hole. Once you are sure they fit, connect the electrical connector to the speaker. Then, you can screw the speaker in with a Phillips head screwdriver, or electric drill.
To ensure the speaker is secure, give the car a very light shake. If you hear rustling or clanging, repeat the process. One by one, install each speaker carefully.
Step 4. Test The New Speakers
Before putting the cover back on your speakers you need to test that they are working. To do this, reconnect the battery and play a song of your choosing at different volumes. Once you are satisfied, replace the cover on each speaker and test again. Once you are satisfied with the result, you are finished.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed new speakers in your car – saving yourself a costly mechanics bill!
Signs You Need To Upgrade Your Car Speakers
When upgrading your car speakers depends on your preference as a vehicle owner. If you are a music lover or an audiophile, upgrading your speakers from factory speakers might appeal to you from day one.
However, if you’ve had your speakers for as long as your vehicle, here are three signs it’s time for an upgrade.
- Your speakers produce muddy or degraded sound.
You might not notice your speakers degrading overtime until they produce a sound you can’t ignore. When speakers get old the materials inside them start to degrade. This results in a lower quality of sound – as if you are listening to music that is far away. If your speakers are producing a sound that is faint, patchy, or sounds ‘muddy’ it’s a sign your car speakers need replacing.
- Your car speakers have blown.
When you play music the cones inside your speaker vibrate rapidly to produce sound. However, these cones can become damaged, leading to your speaker blowing. You can tell your speakers have blown if they produce no sound, a ringing sound, or hissing noise when the audio system is on. Unfortunately, there is no fixing a blown car speaker. It’s time for a replacement.
- Loud volumes produce distorted sound.
A distorted sound is also a sign that your car speakers need an upgrade. You can tell if your speakers are producing distorted sound if your music is sounding crackly, warped, or sputters when it shouldn’t.
Broken speakers will sound most distorted at higher volumes – so make sure to turn that volume up. If you want to test whether or not your speaker is producing distorted sound, try playing a song that has high and low-frequency sound – like ‘Hotel California’ by The Eagles. When testing your sound, always test with the engine off to hear clearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Component Car Speaker?
We have awarded the title of ‘Best Car Speakers 2023’ to the SKAR Component Speaker system. The runner up for ‘Best Car Speakers 2023’ was the Diamond Audio Component Speaker System. The best budget buy for 2023 is the Boss Audio Systems Component Speaker System.
What Is The Best Coaxial Car Speaker?
We have awarded the title of ‘Best Car Speakers 2023’ to the JBL Coaxial Car Speaker. The runner up for ‘Best Car Speakers 2023’ was the Infinity Coaxial Speakers. The best budget buy is the JVC Coaxial Speakers.
Does Car Speaker Size Matter?
The size of the speakers you buy must match the size your vehicle can take – otherwise they will not fit into the body of your vehicle. Common sizes include 4×6, 4×4, 5.5×5.5, 6.5×6.5, and 6×9.
How Do I Choose The Right Speakers For My Car?
When choosing the right speakers for your car, you need to choose between a coaxial and component speaker and determine your vehicle’s speaker size. Then, you can select a speaker within your price range.
How Often Should You Replace Your Car Speakers?
Car speakers need to be upgraded every 4 and 6 years, depending on your personal preference. You should replace your car speakers if the sound they produce is low quality, distorted at a high volume or the speakers themselves are damaged.
What Are Factory Speakers?
Factory speakers are speakers made by your car manufacturer. As they are trying to sell you a car (not audio equipment) they use very low-quality materials like paper and cardboard. These speakers might sound good at the start, but they just don’t last. Speakers that you buy after you have bought your car (or separately) are called ‘aftermarket’ speakers.
What Is The Difference Between Coaxial And Component Speakers?
Coaxial or ‘full-range’ speakers are cheaper and come in standardized sizing. Component speakers produce a higher quality of sound but are more expensive and customizable.
Conclusion
We believe that every car owner can perform basic maintenance on their vehicle. Speaker systems are no different.
Replacing your own speakers might seem complicated, but don’t be fooled! With a few tools, time, and a little patience, you can save yourself a whole lot of money. It’s easy to be swayed by powerful marketing but more expensive doesn’t mean more quality. The best car speakers for you will suit your driving habits, your budget, and your car.
Garry is the happy owner of a funky 2018 Nissan Juke Ti-S AWD. After growing up around his family’s mechanics shop, he is passionate about bringing budget-friendly car care to every driver. Garry has a business degree and is a car enthusiast.