Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter Review!
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What Is The Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter?
Okay, so the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter is basically a little gadget that lets you stream music and take calls hands free in your car, even if your car doesn’t have Bluetooth built in.
Think of it like this: you plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter socket (or a 12V outlet), and it creates a Bluetooth connection. Then, you connect your phone to it via Bluetooth, just like you would with Bluetooth headphones.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter
Anker Roav SmartCharge F3
- Bluetooth Version: 5.0
- Charging Ports: 2 (USB-A and USB-C)
- Frequency Range: 88.1-107.9 MHz
- Input Voltage: 12-24V
- Hands-Free Calling: Yes
- Audio Features: Enhanced Voice Clarity
The Anker Roav SmartCharge F3 Bluetooth adapter is a premium option for drivers who want more from their in-car audio. With its ability to connect two phones at once, it’s perfect for those who frequently switch between devices. It also offers superior fast charging thanks to its USB-C port, making it an ideal choice for modern smartphones.
Enhanced noise cancellation means that your calls will come through crystal clear, and the integration with voice assistants provides convenient, hands-free control over your driving experience.
- Compatible with most vehicles with an FM radio.
- Works seamlessly with Android and iOS devices.
- Plug-and-Play: Simply plug into the car’s 12V port, connect to your phone via Bluetooth, and tune your radio.
- Optional app for enhanced controls, but not required for basic functionality.
- Dual-Device Connectivity: Allows for pairing two phones at the same time.
- USB-C Charging: Fast charging for newer smartphones.
- Enhanced Call Clarity: Superior noise reduction for crystal-clear hands-free calls.
- Voice Assistant: Compatible with Siri and Google Assistant.
- Dual-phone connectivity
- USB-C fast charging
- High-quality audio and call clarity
- Durable build
Slightly more expensive than budget models
If you’re someone who values fast charging and dual-device connectivity, the Anker Roav SmartCharge F3 is a great investment. It’s a solid choice for users who want premium sound quality and hands-free control with an emphasis on convenience and durability.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter: Full Specifications
General:
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Product Name: Anker Roav SmartCharge F3 (sometimes referred to as just “Roav F3”)
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Model Number: Typically something like R5141 (but again, double check the packaging/listing).
Key Features:
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Bluetooth Version: Bluetooth 4.2 or later (check specific model)
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FM Transmitter: Yes, transmits audio to your car radio.
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Dual USB Charging Ports: Yes, allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.
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Hands Free Calling: Built in microphone for answering and making calls.
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Music Streaming: Streams audio from your phone (music, podcasts, etc.).
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Voice Assistant Support: Some models support activating Siri or Google Assistant.
Technical Specifications:
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Input: DC 12V/24V (works in most cars and trucks)
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Output:
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USB Port 1: 5V/2.4A (12W) Max.
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USB Port 2: 5V/1A (5W) Max. (Often optimized for USB drive playback)
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Total Output: 5V/3.4A (17W) Max.
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Bluetooth Range: Typically around 30 feet (10 meters), but can vary.
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FM Transmission Range: Usually within a few feet of the adapter to the car antenna.
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Supported Audio Formats (USB Drive): MP3, WMA, WAV, FLAC (check specific model)
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Microphone: Built in, often with noise reduction features.
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Display: LED display, usually shows FM frequency.
Other Details:
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Color: Typically black.
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Dimensions: (Approximate) Will vary slightly, but expect something in the range of 3.1 x 1.8 x 1.6 inches (8 x 4.5 x 4 cm).
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Weight: (Approximate) Usually very lightweight, a few ounces.
Table of Contents
How Well Does The Anker Roav BlueTooth Car Adapter Work?
The Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter is a convenient and affordable way to add Bluetooth functionality to older cars without built in systems. Its ease of setup, dual USB charging ports, hands free calling capabilities, and potential for USB drive playback offer attractive benefits. However, its performance is largely contingent on FM radio interference, a significant drawback in densely populated areas where finding a clear frequency can be challenging, resulting in static, hissing, and overall reduced audio quality.
While it facilitates hands free calling, road noise might compromise microphone clarity. Some users have reported intermittent disconnections and questionable build quality, further impacting the overall experience. Therefore, the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter is best suited for drivers in regions with minimal radio traffic, but those prioritizing high fidelity audio or consistent performance in urban settings might find it necessary to explore alternative solutions like AUX based adapters or complete stereo replacements.
Lets dive into the specific features below.
Anker Roav Bluetooth 5.0 Connectivity
Pros:
Easy Pairing: Usually pairs quickly and easily with smartphones and other Bluetooth devices.
Wireless Convenience: Eliminates the need for cables to connect your phone to your car’s audio system.
Relatively Stable: Once connected, the Bluetooth connection is generally stable within a reasonable range.
Cons:
Occasional Disconnections: Some users report occasional Bluetooth disconnections, requiring re pairing.
Limited Range: The Bluetooth range isn’t huge. If your phone is too far from the adapter (e.g., in the backseat or trunk), the connection might drop.
Bluetooth Version: Might use an older Bluetooth version (4.2 or later), so might not have the most up to date power efficiency or audio codec support.
Anker Roav FM Transmission Quality
Pros:
Universal Compatibility: Works with almost any car radio with an FM receiver.
Cons:
FM Interference: The biggest weakness. Susceptible to static, hissing, and interference from other radio stations. Finding a clear frequency can be difficult, especially in urban areas.
Audio Quality: The audio quality is limited by the FM transmission. It’s not as clear or crisp as a direct connection (e.g., AUX cable or Bluetooth to a modern car stereo).
Frequency Drifting: Sometimes, the transmitter might drift slightly off the selected frequency, requiring you to readjust it.
Anker Roav Hands Free Calling
Pros:
Safety: Allows you to make and receive calls without holding your phone, improving driving safety.
Convenience: Easy to answer calls with a button press.
Cons:
Microphone Quality: The built in microphone isn’t always the best. People on the other end might have trouble hearing you clearly, especially with road noise.
Echo/Feedback: Some users experience echo or feedback during calls.
Placement: The microphone’s location (on the adapter plugged into the cigarette lighter) might not be optimal for capturing your voice clearly.
Anker Roav Music Playback (Streaming/USB)
Pros:
Wireless Streaming: Stream music from your phone wirelessly through your car’s speakers.
USB Drive Support: Allows you to play music files directly from a USB drive.
Cons:
Audio Quality (Again, FM): Limited by the FM transmission, so the audio quality isn’t as good as other methods.
USB Drive Compatibility: Might not support all audio file formats or USB drive sizes.
Folder Navigation: Navigating folders on a USB drive can be clunky and slow.
Anker Roav Charging
Pros:
Dual USB Ports: Allows you to charge two devices simultaneously.
Sufficient Power: Provides enough power to charge most smartphones and other devices.
Cons:
Charging Speed: The charging speed might not be as fast as a dedicated wall charger, especially when charging two devices at once.
Port Allocation: One port might be optimized for USB drive playback, potentially having lower charging amperage.
Anker Roav Ease of Use
Pros:
Simple Setup: Very easy to set up. Just plug it in, pair it with your phone, and find a clear FM frequency.
Intuitive Controls: The controls are generally simple and easy to understand.
Cons:
Finding a Clear FM Frequency: This can be the most challenging part, especially in urban areas.
FM Frequency Adjustment: You might need to frequently adjust the FM frequency as you drive to avoid interference.
User Interface: The user interface for navigating USB drives can be clunky.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter Performance and Sound Quality
Let’s be honest: expecting audiophile grade sound from an FM transmitter is like expecting gourmet coffee from a gas station machine. FM transmission technology inherently struggles to match the sonic purity of direct AUX connections or even a pristine Bluetooth stream due to signal interference and the limitations of FM broadcasting itself. However, the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter, given its inherent constraints, manages to carve out a respectable niche, offering performance that fluctuates between passable and pleasantly surprising, largely dictated by the surrounding radio landscape.
A defining characteristic of the Roav’s functionality is its ability to scan and connect to various FM frequencies on your car radio. This feature empowers you to actively hunt for a relatively silent sanctuary on the FM spectrum, aiming to minimize interference and cultivate a cleaner signal. When navigating through regions with minimal radio activity, the Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter has the potential to shine, offering a surprisingly clear listening experience. Conversely, within the cacophony of urban radio waves, you might find yourself battling the inevitable static hiss and fragmented signals, necessitating frequent frequency hopping. Even under these conditions, the overall sound quality generally remains satisfactory for casual, everyday listening needs, contingent upon securing a consistently clear channel.
In terms of its sonic characteristics, the Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter tends towards a balanced sound signature. While it doesn’t aggressively emphasize either end of the spectrum, it offers a reasonably present bass response without becoming overwhelming and provides sufficient clarity in the higher frequencies to avoid a muffled or muddy sound. While discerning audiophiles seeking intricate sonic landscapes or customizable settings might find the experience somewhat lacking in dynamism or nuanced detail, the average listener will likely find the audio output perfectly adequate for enjoying music, podcasts, or audiobooks while on the road. It serves its purpose as a budget friendly solution for wireless audio.
Admittedly, the Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter doesn’t offer the advanced equalizer options commonly found in more sophisticated audio equipment, which means that sound customization is essentially non existent. This can lead to a somewhat flatter or less immersive experience, particularly for those who crave deep, resonant bass or finely detailed high notes. Nevertheless, for individuals simply seeking an uncomplicated and affordable method to introduce wireless audio capabilities to their older vehicles, the Roav delivers sound quality that is generally acceptable for the price, but its success fundamentally hinges on the quality of your local radio environment and the availability of a clear frequency.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter Installation and Use
The beauty of the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter lies in its refreshingly straightforward installation and use. It’s designed to be plug and play, requiring minimal technical expertise to get up and running. However, even with its simplicity, understanding the process can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable experience.
Installation:
Power Up: The first step is as simple as plugging the adapter into your car’s cigarette lighter socket or 12V power outlet. The adapter will then power on, usually indicated by a small LED display illuminating.
Finding a Frequency: This is arguably the most crucial step. You’ll need to scan your car radio to find a clear FM frequency – one that isn’t actively being used by a radio station and where you hear mostly static. This may take some trial and error, especially in urban areas.
Matching Frequencies: Once you’ve found a clear frequency on your car radio, set the Anker Roav adapter to transmit on that same frequency. This is usually done using buttons on the adapter itself.
Bluetooth Pairing: Enable Bluetooth on your smartphone and search for available devices. The Anker Roav adapter should appear in the list. Select it to pair your phone with the adapter.
Volume Adjustment: It’s often best to start with the volume on both your phone and the Roav adapter set to a moderate level. You can then fine tune the volume using your car’s radio volume control.
Use:
Music Streaming: Once paired, you can start playing music from your phone. The audio will be transmitted through the Anker Roav adapter to your car radio on the selected FM frequency.
Hands Free Calling: When you receive a call, the audio will automatically switch to your car’s speakers. You can answer the call using a button on the adapter. The built in microphone will allow you to speak hands free.
USB Drive Playback (If Applicable): If your Anker Roav adapter has a USB port for music playback, you can plug in a USB drive containing your music files. You can then navigate and play music using the adapter’s controls.
Charging: While using the adapter for audio playback or calls, you can also use its USB charging ports to charge your smartphone or other devices.
Frequency Adjustments: Be prepared to occasionally adjust the FM frequency as you drive, especially if you encounter interference from other radio stations.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter Hands Free Calling
ands Free Calling: A Convenient Solution, But Expect Compromises
The promise of hands free calling is a major selling point for devices like the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter, and it delivers on that promise to a degree. However, it’s important to set realistic expectations, as the performance isn’t going to rival a built in car Bluetooth system or a high end dedicated hands free kit. The hands free calling experience is a mixture of convenience and inevitable compromises.
Convenience and Safety:
The primary advantage of hands free calling with the Anker Roav adapter is the added safety and convenience it offers. Instead of juggling your phone while driving, you can answer and make calls with the simple press of a button on the adapter. This allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road, which is paramount for safe driving. The ability to initiate calls through Siri or Google Assistant (if the adapter supports that feature) further enhances the hands free experience, allowing you to make calls using voice commands.
Microphone Quality:
The biggest area where compromises are apparent is microphone quality. The Anker Roav adapter uses a built in microphone to pick up your voice during calls. However, the placement of this microphone, typically near the cigarette lighter socket or 12V outlet, isn’t always ideal. This can lead to your voice sounding muffled, distant, or distorted to the person on the other end of the call. Road noise, wind noise, and engine noise can further exacerbate these issues, making it difficult for the other person to hear you clearly, especially at higher speeds or on the highway.
Audio Quality (Incoming):
The audio quality of incoming calls is also affected by the FM transmission. While generally acceptable, the sound might not be as clear or crisp as a direct Bluetooth connection. You might experience some static, hissing, or distortion, particularly if the FM frequency isn’t perfectly clear.
Echo and Feedback:
Some users have reported experiencing echo or feedback during calls when using the Anker Roav adapter. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including the position of the microphone, the volume settings, and the acoustics of your car’s interior.
Overall Experience:
The hands free calling experience with the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter is generally adequate for short, casual conversations. It’s certainly better than holding your phone to your ear while driving. However, for important calls, business calls, or conversations where clear audio is essential, you might want to consider using a different solution, such as a dedicated Bluetooth headset or pulling over to take the call.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter Compatibility and Connectivity
While modern Bluetooth technology is generally quite versatile, the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter’s compatibility isn’t a guarantee for every single setup. It strives for broad compatibility, but the realities of older car radios and varying Bluetooth implementations mean that some users may encounter minor hurdles. But even with these potential snags, the Roav adapter generally performs reliably, providing a decent connectivity experience for a wide range of devices.
A key aspect of the Roav’s compatibility is its reliance on both Bluetooth and FM transmission. It’s designed to work with almost any car radio equipped with an FM receiver, offering near universal compatibility across vehicle makes and models. This FM transmission method, however, depends on the availability of clear frequencies, with the best performance realized when the adapter and car radio are tuned to a quiet spot on the FM dial. In areas with considerable radio frequency congestion, occasional adjustments may be required. Despite these limitations, the Roav typically delivers reliable connectivity suitable for most users.
In terms of device compatibility, the Roav adapter supports a wide variety of Bluetooth enabled smartphones, tablets, and other audio sources. It generally connects seamlessly to both Android and iOS devices, providing a stable link for music streaming and hands free calling. While some older Bluetooth versions might not be fully supported, the majority of modern devices should pair and function without issues. While serious tech enthusiasts might find it a bit lacking in cutting edge Bluetooth codec support , the average listener should find the connectivity perfectly acceptable for enjoying streaming or calls on the go.
It’s true that the Roav adapter lacks the sophisticated device management you’d find in more premium Bluetooth systems, meaning you’re somewhat limited in simultaneous device pairings or advanced codec choices. This can result in a somewhat less streamlined experience if you often switch between multiple devices. Still, for those simply looking for a straightforward and affordable way to bring wireless audio to their car, the Roav offers a generally satisfying compatibility and connectivity that does the job for most common needs.
Check out our Best Car Bluetooth Adapter Buying Guide. It’s our handy resource to help you find the right match for your needs.
Anker Roav Pros and Cons
Pros
Despite its limitations, the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter offers a compelling set of advantages, especially for those looking for a budget friendly way to modernize older vehicles:
Affordable Entry to Bluetooth: It’s one of the most affordable ways to add Bluetooth functionality to a car that lacks it, avoiding the expense of replacing the entire stereo system.
Easy Installation and Use: The simple plug and play design makes it incredibly easy to install and use, requiring minimal technical knowledge or effort.
Hands Free Calling for Safety: It enables safer driving by allowing you to make and receive calls without holding your phone, keeping your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road.
Music Streaming Convenience: Stream your favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks wirelessly from your smartphone to your car’s speakers.
Dual USB Charging Ports: The inclusion of dual USB charging ports allows you to charge your phone and other devices simultaneously, which is particularly handy on long drives.
Universal Compatibility: It’s designed to work with almost any car radio that has an FM receiver, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of vehicles.
USB Drive Playback (Model Dependent): Some models offer the ability to play music directly from a USB drive, eliminating reliance on your phone’s data or battery.
Voice Assistant Integration (Model Dependent): Certain models provide integration with Siri or Google Assistant, allowing for voice activated commands while driving.
Compact and Portable: Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to move between vehicles or store when not in use.
Cons
While the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter offers several benefits, it’s important to be aware of its limitations before making a purchase:
FM Interference Susceptibility: The biggest drawback is its reliance on FM transmission, making it highly susceptible to static, hissing, and interference from other radio stations. This can significantly impact audio quality, especially in urban areas.
Limited Audio Quality: Even with a clear FM frequency, the audio quality is inherently limited by the technology, lacking the clarity and dynamic range of a direct connection or a modern Bluetooth car stereo.
Microphone Quality Compromises: The built in microphone often provides less than ideal call quality, with reports of muffled sound, road noise interference, and echo for the person on the other end.
Potential for Bluetooth Disconnections: Some users experience occasional Bluetooth disconnections, requiring re pairing and disrupting the listening experience.
Dependence on a Clear FM Frequency: Finding and maintaining a clear FM frequency can be a constant chore, requiring frequent adjustments, particularly when traveling.
Lack of Customization: The lack of equalizer settings and other customization options limits the ability to tailor the sound to personal preferences.
Questionable Long Term Reliability: Some users report issues with the adapter failing after a relatively short period of use, raising concerns about long term durability.
Subpar Build Quality: The often plasticky build quality doesn’t inspire confidence and may not withstand rough handling or extreme temperatures.
Inconsistent Performance: Overall performance can vary significantly depending on location, radio frequency congestion, and the specific model of the adapter.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Adapter Reviews and Feedback
Positive Feedback:
Affordable and Easy to Use: This is the most commonly praised aspect. Users appreciate its low price point and simple plug and play setup.
Decent Sound Quality (When it Works): When a clear FM frequency is found, many users find the sound quality to be acceptable for casual listening, especially given the price.
Convenient Hands Free Calling: The hands free calling feature is generally well received, although the microphone quality is often cited as a weakness.
Dual USB Charging Ports are a Plus: The ability to charge two devices simultaneously is a popular feature.
Good for Older Cars: Many users specifically mention that it’s a great solution for adding Bluetooth to older vehicles that lack built in functionality.
Reliable Bluetooth Connection (Mostly): Most users report a stable Bluetooth connection between their phone and the adapter.
Negative Feedback:
FM Interference is a Major Issue: The most common complaint is FM interference. Users in urban areas with lots of radio stations often struggle to find a clear frequency and experience constant static or signal bleed through.
Microphone Quality is Subpar: The microphone quality is consistently criticized, with users reporting that their voice sounds muffled or distant to the person on the other end of the call.
Occasional Disconnections and Reliability Issues: Some users report occasional Bluetooth disconnections or the adapter ceasing to function after a short period of use.
Disappointing Audio Quality: Many users find the audio quality to be underwhelming, even when a clear FM frequency is found. They describe the sound as “tinny,” “muffled,” or “lacking bass.”
Short Lifespan: Some reviews indicate the adapter failing in less than a year.
Flimsy Build Quality: A number of users find the build quality to be cheap and plasticky.
Final Verdict: Is The Anker Roav BlueTooth Adapter Worth Buying?
The Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter is a decent entry level option that can provide a convenient way to add Bluetooth functionality to an older car. However, it’s important to be realistic about its limitations. The FM transmission technology is its weakest link, and the audio and microphone quality may not meet the expectations of all users. It’s best viewed as a functional stopgap solution, a way to bridge the gap until a more permanent or higher quality upgrade becomes feasible.
Consider it if your primary need is basic wireless connectivity on a budget, and you’re willing to accept the compromises that come with FM transmission. If you foresee frustration with interference or require superior audio for critical calls or music enjoyment, exploring alternatives is strongly advised.
Article By: Dale Ogden
Dale is a highly respected automotive industry expert, renowned for his pioneering work in vehicle forecasting and asset management. As the founder of Check Your Spec and former Forecast Manager at CAP HPI (the UK equivalent of Kelley Blue Book), he spearheaded the development of forecasting strategies and depreciation models for internal combustion, hybrid, and electric commercial vehicles. With over two decades of experience, Dale pioneered EV forecasting models now used by major manufacturers, and has generated residual values for over 10,000 new vehicles.
Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter FAQ
What is the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter?
It’s a device that plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter socket and allows you to stream music and make hands free calls from your smartphone through your car’s radio using Bluetooth technology and FM transmission.
How do I set it up the Anker Roav Bluetooth Car Adapter?
1. Plug it into your car’s cigarette lighter socket.
2. Find a clear FM frequency on your car radio.
3. Set the adapter to transmit on the same frequency.
4. Pair your phone with the adapter via Bluetooth.
What if I'm experiencing Bluetooth disconnections?
Make sure your phone is within a reasonable range of the adapter. Try re pairing your phone with the adapter. Also, make sure your phone’s Bluetooth is enabled and not interfering with other devices.
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