Best 3.5 Car Speakers 2023: (Infinity, JBL, Kenwood…)

Choosing speakers for your vehicle’s audio system is one of the most critical decisions to make, especially for someone who wants to listen to music in their car.

And if you are looking for music as a means of entertainment and a means of driving, 3. 5″ car speaker sets are very beneficial as they produce quality sound that is not too loud. In this article, Hookeaudio will go over the Best 3.5 Car Speakers in 2023.

Top Rated Best 3.5″ Car Speakers Brands in 2023

1. JL Audio C2-350x

• Sensitivity: 83dB
• RMS: 40-watt
• Peak Power: 75 Watts
• Frequency Response: 130-22000 Hz
• 2way/3way/4way: 2-way

JL Audio C2-350x is one of the best car speakers without amp that will boost power output and cost you a lot.

These speakers were built with quality in mind. These speakers deliver excellent mid-range, crisp highs, and upright bass. To get clear lows, pair them with a subwoofer.

JL Audio C2-350xX 3.5 speakers have a rugged polypropylene woofer cone. They can handle a lot of power without minimal distortion. 3/4″ soft dome tweeters provide smooth, high-frequency sound, adding an extra layer of realness to your soundstage.

The built-in crossover networks ensure that tweeters and woofers only reproduce the frequencies they intended to handle. This ensures that your tracks can be played across all musical genres.

These speakers can power output 25 watts of RMS power and 75 watts of peak power. These speakers have a sensitivity of 83 dB and a frequency response of 130Hz to 22kHz.

Pros:

• These speakers are light and compact
• They are easy to put in
• Great rubber protection
• Reasonably priced
• The spa’s classic design
• The sensitivity and frequency response produce quality sound

Cons:

• An amplifier is required to produce truly high volumes
• Low frequencies cannot be accommodated

2. Rockford Fosgate P132

• Sensitivity: 85dB
• RMS: 20 Watts
• Peak Power: 40 Watts
• Frequency Response: 120-22 000 Hertz
• 2way/3way/4way: 2-Way

Rockford Fosgate is a well-known name in audiophiles and deserves its stellar reputation. They offer the Rockford Fosgate p132
, great sound 3.5 speakers that are worth every penny.

It’s important to mention that Rockford Fosgate products are available in three different categories. The “Prime” series is the entry-level model.

“Punch,” which is the best combination of high power and value, and the “Power” series, which is the most advanced series of products, represent the brand’s highest quality products that were designed to deliver the ultimate sound experience.

These Rockford Fosgate speakers are part of the “Punch Series.” These speakers are the perfect balance of performance and cost. They are very well built and produce a balanced sound across the entire audible spectrum.

The car doors systems are equipped with responsive polypropylene cones and a butyl rubber surround. They can withstand hours of high-volume jams. They have a frequency response of 120Hz to 22kHz and 85 dB of sensitivity. They can handle 20 watts of continuous power.

These Rockford Fosgate p132 speakers 3.5 don’t have the same depth as some competitors and are seen as one of the best sound 3.5 inch car speakers. 

Pros:

• Mounting hardware comes with the set.
• The pei dome tweeter comes with a built-in cross-platform feature
• These speakers can provide excellent high frequencies even without the need for an amplifier.

Cons:

• These speakers can only be used without an amp and reach 60 Hz.
• These speakers do not have bass frequencies, so you will need to purchase additional speakers if you want your bass response to kick.
• These speakers can only produce 40 watts of peak power.
• High power can cause a loss of optimal sound quality, which can be irritating and even tire listeners.
• These speakers are not long-lasting. The great sound quality of these speakers has been affected by time.

3. JBL GX302 150W

• Sensitivity: 89dB
• RMS: 25 Watts
• Peak Power: 75 Watts
• Frequency Response: 90-21000 Hz
• 2way/3way/4way: 2-Way

The JBL GX302 3.5-inch quality speakers are both outstanding in build quality and sound quality. These speakers are highly well-engineered and are for people who want speakers that look as good as they sound.

JBL GX302 3-1/2″ coaxial speakers have a sleek, modern design backed by JBL’s legendary commitment to excellent sound. These JBL 3.5-inch speakers have a transparent, open midrange and an impressive amount of bass response thanks to the polypropylene Plus One(TM woofer cone).

These speakers have an edge-driven balanced dome speaker that boosts the high frequencies. This will allow you to hear the musical details that were always part of your music but are not heard when using sub-par speakers. To compensate for variations in speaker mounting hardware and the variety of car interiors, JBL GX302 speakers feature a tweeter reflector.

The JBL GX302 speakers are rated at 91 dB of sensitivity. They can continuously deliver up to 25 W. They can be paired with an aftermarket stereo or factory radio, but they will perform better when powered by an external amplifier.

These JBL speakers are lower impedance than most 3-1/2″ car speakers, with a 4-ohm load. This design allows you to draw more power from your car’s amp or head unit, giving your music an extra punch. It is seen as one of the very best jbl car speakers in 2023.

Pros:

• These 3.5 inch speakers work well even when they are supplied with a lot of high power.
• This car sound system will deliver a high-quality sound output regardless of how much power you use.
• The singing voices of songs are clear and crisp
• These car audio systems are equipped with bass-blockers.
• These components reduce distortion, especially in smaller speakers like the 3.5-inch car sound system range.
• JBL ensures that quality is paired well with functionality, so you can rest assured that these bass blocks will last long.
• High quality tweeters

Cons:

• These 3.5 inch speakers are sold without the necessary mounting hardware.
• This may be because many vehicles already have them, but it can be problematic if you require a custom installation.
• You may need to modify the location of your speakers to ensure they fit perfectly.

4. Kicker 43DSC3504 2-Way coaxial speaker

• U-treated foam Surround for longevity when mounted in Sun A soaked dash
• Extended voice coil technology for the best Sonic quality
• High sensitivity design for more output when used with stock receivers
• Minimal tweeter protrusion
• Thin mounting profile for tight window mechanism clearances

The Kicker 43DSC3504 is a kicker. You get 30W of pure, refined sound from each speaker.

For durability and non-shaky clear sound, the two-way coaxial pair has a UV-treated foam surround. Even when the dashboard is mounted and exposed to direct sun, it will still work. The well-balanced sound quality is also due to the imbued extended vocal coil technology.

Its high sensitivity design makes it more resistant to higher outputs when combined with stock receivers or amplifiers. The surface of the tweeter is smooth and does not protrude.

It can also be mounted in a narrow profile to fit into tight windows and various mounting clearance mechanisms. It is seen as the very best sounding 3.5 car speakers for your car in 2023.

Pros:

• For long-lasting and stable sounding surrounds, UV-treated foam has been used.
• Can withstand high temperatures.
• Installation is easier with a broader variety of cars thanks to the non-protruding tweezers.
• Extended voice coil tech to improve the sonic quality

Cons:

• The buzzing sound must be improved.

5. Pioneer T-A878

• Carbon-graphite blended IMPP composite cone woofer
• One-inch PEI (Poly-Ether Imide) dome tweeter
• Custom-fit for GM Ford and Volkswagen vehicles
• 3-1/2-inch two-way speakers with 60 watts maximum power handling (15 watts nominal)
• Carbon-graphite blended IMPP composite cone woofer
• 3-1/2-inch, two-way speakers with 60 watts maximum power handling (15 watts nominal)
• Carbon-graphite blended IMPP composite cone woofer

The list ranks Pioneer 4th among 3.5-inch full-range speakers. This is a classic design that you wouldn’t need to praise. This car sound system is simple and elegant in its tonic black color.

It is entirely made of plastic. The tweeter and a conical carbon-made woofer are both included. It’s a dome-shaped tweeter enclosed by a cone woofer, making it difficult to figure the first time.

Pioneer claims the car sound system can be used in most Japanese, European, and American cars. It is easy to install with minimal effort. This speaker is straightforward to fit perfectly in most cars.

This car audio system is two-way and is designed for lower frequencies instead of the other speakers on the list. You can hear sounds as low as 60Hz. The frequency response rate ranges from 60Hz to 28000Hz.

It is as sensitive as it should be. This means that the speaker has a rating of less than 90dBs to match low-frequency sounds. The speaker has a sensitivity of 04 ohms, making it easy to use an amplifier. The wattage of the car sound system is approximately 60W peak and 15W nominal.

It is a low-rated speaker but still produces an impressive sound quality than others. This speaker’s best feature is its bass reproduction. You will not expect an excellent bass response at this frequency, but I have to say that it is possible.

It is seen as one of the very best car speakers for bass in 2023.

Pros:

• Low-frequency response rate
• Pair of two-way speakers
• Sensitive & amplified sound
• Optimistic running power handling
• A couple of affordable shoes

Cons:

• To avoid potential problems, a capacitor is required.

6. Infinity Reference REF-3022cfx

• Sensitivity: 91dB
• RMS: 25 Watts
• Peak Power: 75 Watts
• Frequency Response: 85-21000 Hz
• 2way/3way/4way: 2-Way

Infinity Reference 3022cfx car sound system offers the best combination of high sensitivity, power handling capabilities, and a wide frequency range. The best thing about this set is the outstanding sound quality. It has a rich bass response and pure midrange details.

Infinity REF3022CFX speakers have Plus One+ polypropylene cones with a hi-roll rubber surround. This allows for remarkable performance from such small speakers.

The Plus One+ woofers have a more giant cone than other speakers of the same size. This is because they produce more powerful bass and more punch, which, as you may already know, complements the speaker’s smooth, precise highs.

These 3.5-inch speakers are high quality and have exceptional clarity thanks to the 1/2″ balanced textile dome Tweeters. They bring out every detail in your music without distortion or harshness.

This small speaker can deliver up to 25 watts of RMS power handling they will work well when paired with an external amp. They are an excellent match for aftermarket stereo or factory speakers due to their high sensitivity ratings.

These 3-ohm speakers are combined with the speaker wire of your stock speakers so that your car stereo has an actual 4-ohm impedance. Th

These speakers have an adjustable tweeter output level of 0dB or +3dB which means that you can optimize sound output depending on where the speakers are located.

Infinity Reference 3022cfx small speaker is one of the best 3.5 inch car audio speakers for the money. These are some of the most popular 3.5-car speakers in the car audio industry. 

Pros:

• These speakers come with bass blocks.
• The speakers have a different style, thanks to the silver details.
• This speaker is perfect for vehicle owners who want to make a bold statement with their speakers.
• The textile used in this design enhances the home stereo sound quality (well-balanced sound clarity), which is exceptional.

Cons:

• Because these speakers are sensitive to shock, it is essential to handle them gently during installation.
• Not included are wires and documentation, such as instructions and warranty information.

7. Kenwood Kfc-835c

• Item Weight: 2 pounds
• Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 4.8 x 2.8 inches
• Country of Origin: USA
• Item model number: KFC-835C
• Batteries: 1 12V battery required.

Kenwood is a brand you can praise, regardless of whether or not your audiophile status. This KFC product is not meant to be eaten but rather to listen to. It has the most basic and typical round design.

To prevent travel resistance, the mountings are made of metal. The rest of it is entirely made of plastic. The tweeter is water-resistant and is the only one.

Rubber insulation protects the environment perfectly and does not cause any distortion or sound resistance. For sound reproduction at tweeters and drivers, they use a Strontium magnet.

This is Pioneer’s boy’s direct rival for performance. The peak power handling is 80W combined and 40W RMS. The one woofer cone has water resistance and prevents water particles or dust particles from entering it.

It has a frequency response rate of mid-range so that it can play music from 150Hz to 24000Hz. It does, however, have a sensible sensitivity of less than 90dBs.

This page has some pretty good specs for the price. Although the bass reproduction isn’t very obvious, it is still present in the cabin.

Your listening habits will determine the life expectancy of these speakers. It is seen as one of the best Kenwood 3.5 speakers for car. 

Pros:

• A powerful speaker set
• High-frequency range
• Impressing sounding, audio clarity
• Magnetic tweezers
• Affordable pricing
• Build quality

Cons:

• Installation can be difficult

8. Skar Audio Tx35

• Elite TX Series 3.5″ Coaxial Speaker System – Includes 2 Speakers
• Peak Power handling – 120 Watts (Pair) | RMS Power handling – 60 Watts (Pair)
• Featuring a 0.8″ High Performance Silk Dome Tweeter | 4 Ohm Impedance
• Frequency Response Range: 145 Hz – 20,000 Hz
• Powerful Ferrite Magnet | Sensitivity: 84 dB
• 1″ Copper Voice Coil | TPE Surround

Skar once again, but this time it will be making space for the TX-35 full range speaker. The speaker has a circular or rounded form, which is not very interesting.

This guy uses polythene plastic for skimming. It is neither very bad nor expensive. To reduce distortion, the tweeter uses metallic elements. It is fully insulated and surrounded by rubber.

The speaker is slightly taller and has a greater weight. This guy also loaded a silk dome speaker that is less than an inch in height.

The main point of attention is the TX-35’s peak power handling of 120W and 60W RMS. This makes it a potent power source that can be used for audiophiles. However, this power is not meant to be used for that purpose.

As usual, this is a 2-way full-range speaker. This improves the car’s perspective. This pair has 04 ohms each of impedance which is a significant surplus.

TX-35’s frequency response rate is 145Hz to 22,000Hz. This isn’t very good. If you’re looking for low-frequency speakers, then stop scrolling and go to Pioneer at the fourth spot. You can save your time and have it professionally installed in your stock speakers. We will be grateful later.

The magnetic structure is used, but it is not a cobalt magnet. This will eventually increase the cost. They are instead using ferrite, which is not as strong as premium magnets. It has an 85dB sensitivity.

If you need the best cheap speakers for car, it is for you.

Pros:

• High-quality sound, clear and smooth sound
• Also, it handles more power
• Perfectly handles mid-range frequencies
• Easy to install and sensitive
• Affordable speakers pair

Cons:

• Distortion could be a problem.

9. Polk Audio DB351

• Sensitivity: 91dB
• RMS: 35 Watts
• Peak Power: 105 Watts
• Frequency Response: 90-22 000 Hertz
• 2way/3way/4way: 2-Way

Polk Audio’s dB series speakers are the best car speakers under 100 for audiophiles. These speakers produce a rich, clear sound paired with a head unit or connected to an amplifier.

These 3.5-inch speakers may not pack the same punch as more prominent speakers such as the DB651 (6X6) or DB691 (6X9), but the DB351 3-1/2″ speakers are small speakers that we believe hit the sweet spot. They strike the perfect balance between price, size, and audio quality.

Polk Audio speakers have 3-1/2″ Dynamic Balance polymer/mica composite subwoofers supported by durable butyl rubber surrounds. Which ensures long-lasting performance.

These Polk Audio speakers also feature 1/2″ liquid-cooled silk/polymer composite dome Tweeters that use powerful Neodymium magnets for precise high-frequency reproduction. This will immerse you in a concert atmosphere with rich musical detail.

These 3.5 inch speakers have a two-way built-in crossover to ensure that the high and lower frequencies flow to the correct drivers. This allows for seamless and balanced sound across all frequency ranges.

All speakers in the DB Series are marine-certified. These speakers are made with durable materials that can withstand extreme temperatures, sunlight, UV radiations, etc., making them ideal for boats of any type. They also have rustproof baskets and stainless steel mounting hardware.

The Polk Audio db351 is one of the most impressive 3.5 speakers available. They can handle 35 watts RMS and have a 91dB sensitivity rating.

They are high-efficiency speaker that require less power to produce the same quality output. These speakers are great for any type of stereo, factory speakers, or aftermarket.

Pros:

• The speakers come with bass blockers, which reduces the chance of distortion.
• The sound quality is excellent for music and clear when you make phone calls with a hands-free set.
• These speakers are easy to install in any car, thanks to their classic black-grey design.

Cons:

• Base blocks add weight to speakers.
• Some car owners don’t want the sound system to affect their onboard weight.
• Modifications can be made, but it’s not guaranteed that they will work with all cars.

If you are buying a new amplifier for your car speaker, then we can help you choose the right one for your automobile: 

https://hookeaudio.com/how-to-choose-an-amplifier-for-car-speakers/

Coaxial vs Component Speakers

Coaxial

Full-range or coaxial speakers can be an inexpensive upgrade to OEM adapter plate speakers. These include a tweeter, a woofer, and a cone with a single woofer cone.

They are available in a 2-way configuration. The more advanced design includes mid-range speakers in three-way configurations. Coaxial speakers are the most common type of speaker.

Component

The components of component speakers are made up of separate parts. A different tweeter cone may be connected to a subwoofer cone.

High-end models may have an independent mid-range speaker. They produce the best sound and improve the frequency response. However, they are more costly and take longer to install than full-range speakers.

Top Brands

Infinity

Infinity is a subsidiary of Harman International Industries. Samsung Electronics currently manage it. Infinity was established in 1968.

It is located in Stamford (Conn). Infinity specializes in designing and manufacturing a variety of audio equipment, including in-wall speakers for home theatres, marine audio applications, and car audio equipment.

Infinity speakers are available as factory-installed speakers for specific Chrysler, Hyundai, Kia, and Mitsubishi vehicles. The Infinity REF Series is one of the best 3.5-inch car speakers.

JBL

JBL is an American manufacturer of audio equipment based in Los Angeles. James Bullough Lansing, the founder of the company, founded it in 1946.

There are two production lines within the company. The first produces consumer audio equipment, including headphones, loudspeakers, and car speakers.

One makes audio equipment for professional studios such as portable sound and cinema speakers. The JBL GX328 3-1/2 inch Coaxial Car Audio Loudspeakers are available.

Kenwood

Kenwood is a leader in the manufacture of electronic and communication equipment. It was established in 1961. In 2008, it merged with JVC to create JVC Kenwood.

It is headquartered in Tokyo’s Hachioji. Its products include car stereo systems, two-way factory radio communication equipment, and a Hi-Fi home system. The Kenwood KFC Speaker System is one of the 3.5-inch speakers it offers at a fraction of the price.

Pioneer

Based in Bunkyo (Tokyo), Pioneer produces the most innovative digital entertainment products for automotive, professional, marine, and home. Nozomu Matsumoto founded the company in 1938.

Its products include headphones and home theater systems, car speakers, DJ equipment, DVD players, and audiophiles. Pioneer TS Series Coaxial Speakers is one of the most highly rated three 1/2-inch speakers.

Buying Guide To Get You The Best 3.5 Car Speaker

It is an intelligent decision to buy speakers to improve your vehicle’s sound quality. Why? Because everyone loves good music.

Before you make your final decision, however, there are some things that you need to keep in mind. These are the things we have listed to choose the right car speaker to replace your factory-installed speakers.

Speaker Power

This is what determines how loud your speaker will sound. This is determined using RMS ratings. You can choose the one that is best for you. It’s a good idea to spend a little more as you never know what you might need.

Peak power rating is also essential as it shows how much output your speakers can handle when connected. To avoid overloading your speakers and stereo in your car, a more prominent speaker is better.

Speaker Sensitivity

Decibels (dB) are the unit of speaker sensitivity. This is the speaker’s ability to use the power available (watts). Higher dB’s generally mean better sound quality, as they provide more excellent value and don’t require a lot of energy.

Compatibility

You need to ensure that the speaker is compatible with your vehicle’s space and withstand the elements. This will help you make a decision.

Depth

This will show you how much overall sound quality you get from your speakers. It is essential to consider the bass, high, and low frequencies. The most durable and variable pitch will provide the best performance and durability.

Installation

It is often easier to install than it looks. You can also avoid hiring a professional to install your 3.5-inch car speakers. It is good to get a detailed installation manual and all the necessary tools for a complete installation.

Design/ Building

A speaker’s design and build material significantly affect its quality and longevity. Because they are cheaper and produce a more prosperous, warmer sound, silk, and polypropylene are the most popular types of construction material.

The woofer cone doesn’t last as long as more durable cone materials like graphite or ceramic provide a richer sound and incredible highs.

Read more:

• What Size Speakers Are In My Car? Top Full Guide 2023
• How Many Speakers Are In My Car? Top Full Guide 2023

FAQs

What are 3.5 speakers good for?

These speakers are better suited for stereo sound, not surround sound. This speaker is best suited for stereo sound, not surround sound. You can usually play videos on your mobile phone through these speakers. Especially for hands-free calling.

What is a suitable wattage for car speakers?

A suitable wattage for car speakers is between 50-200 watts. An appropriate wattage for car speakers is between 50-200 watts. This will allow for clarity, bass, and volume all at the same time.

Should front and rear car speakers be the same?

The same type of speakers should be in the front and back of the car because the sound will surround you when you are in the car. The same speakers should be in the front and back of the vehicle because the sound will then cover you.

What cable has better audio quality RCA or 3 5?

RCA cables are thicker and have lower audio quality; 3.5 mm audio cables are thinner and better. 3.5mm audio cables are thinner and have better audio quality.

What is the best way to measure car speakers?

Many people today are often not able to measure the actual wattage of their speakers. They may rely on the ratings that their speakers have, which can often be inaccurate. Using an online speaker-test is the best way to measure car speakers.

With this test, users can measure their speaker’s wattage, which gives them a better idea of how powerful it will be. They can also find out what kind of impedance they should be using with their speakers.

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Conclusion

There are different types of car speakers with other qualities. It is advisable to do your research before buying any one of them. These are 3.5 car speakers produce high-quality sound, are reliable, and are made with the best materials. We hope that our article on the best 3.5 speakers car audio will help you decide which are the best ones.

Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API