A CarPlay wireless adapter is a device that brings all the functionalities of Apple CarPlay to your car without needing a wired connection. It connects your iPhone to your car’s display unit so that you can access all the apps directly through cordless connectivity.
Through this wireless connection, the CarPlay adapter allows you to take calls without using your phone while driving. It also lets you navigate correctly with the help of Maps. Music access is provided wirelessly through the CarPlay adapter as well. Additionally, you can access other Apple CarPlay features with your voice (with voice assistants like Siri) and the touch control of your car’s display unit.
The Geekflare team has curated a list of some of the best CarPlay Wireless Adapters based on important factors like car compatibility, built-in factory-wired CarPlay system, and connectivity.
- WQQBFF (Best Overall)
- AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition (Best for Durability)
- OTTOCAST (Best for Premium Design)
- URJD (Best for Compatibility)
- Eleacc 5.0 (Best for Extra Features)
- Auformer (Best for Software Updates)
- CPCGER (Best for Seasoned CarPlay Users)
- CarlinKit 3.0 (Best for 5.8GHz Wi-Fi Support)
- AutoSky Wireless Adapter (Best for Portability)
- Teeran (Best for Ease of Integration)
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WQQBFF
The WQQBFF Wireless CarPlay Adapter is a small gadget that wirelessly connects to your car’s head unit to make it an Apple Carplay-enabled device. Though the WQQBFF CarPlay Adapter is a wireless CarPlay adapter, it comes with a USB-C wire to activate the wireless connection. With CarPlay, your car’s head unit will convert into a display unit that can be controlled via your iPhone.
You can plug the WQQBFF Wireless CarPlay Adapter into your car’s head unit using the USB-C cord. Then, switch on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your iPhone and search for the iPhone’s Bluetooth signal. When it shows up on the car’s head unit, pair it and tap on “Choose CarPlay”. Your wireless connection will now be established.
The WQQBFF Wireless CarPlay Adapter can also be mounted inside your car. It comes with voice control support, and you can ask Siri to manage a variety of functions while you are driving, such as driving assistance, reading text messages, or playing music. The WQQBFF adapter also supports steering wheel and knob operations.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
Wireless CarPlay – Wired CarPlay Convert Cars Wireless CarPlay,Wireless CarPlay Adapter,Apple… | Buy on Amazon |
WQQBFF Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 1.44 ounces |
Dimensions | 5.31 x 2.56 x 0.47 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, WiFi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 13 and above |
WQQBFF Pros ✅
- Compact design and size
- Easy to setup
- Strong connectivity
WQQBFF Cons ❌
- The adapter’s USB-C cable is very short
- Sound support isn’t the best and has some random glitches
WQQBFF Price
The WQQBFF Wireless CarPlay Adapter is priced at $69.99.
AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition
The AutoSky Wireless CarPlay Adapter 2023 Pro Edition comes in a carbon fiber case. AutoSky says that the carbon fiber case gives stronger protection to the adapter and also adds life to the product.
With the AutoSky CarPlay Adapter, you can control the music, check navigation through Maps, or listen to podcasts. The adapter pairs fast with the car’s display unit.
The AutoSky CarPlay Adapter 2023 Pro Edition is equipped with 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi modules to provide a stable connection. It works only with iPhone 6 and above models running iOS 10 and above OS.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
AutoSky Wireless CarPlay Adapter 2023 Pro Edition – Fastest and Most Compact Wireless CarPlay… | Buy on Amazon |
AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 2 ounces |
Dimensions | 2 x 1 x 1 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, WiFi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition Pros ✅
- Carbon fiber casing for better durability
- Very light and portable
- USB-C and USB-A cables come with the pack
AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition Cons ❌
- Not compatible with cars without the original inbuilt factory-wired CarPlay
- Has connectivity issues
- The adapter gets hot after being plugged in for some time
AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition Price
The AutoSky Wireless CarPlay Adapter 2023 Pro Edition is priced at $49.99.
OTTOCAST
The OTTOCAST Wireless CarPlay Adapter is a premium CarPlay Adapter for your car. To set the OTTOCAST CarPlay Adapter up, first connect the adapter to your car’s USB port using the cable provided with the pack. Then, switch on your iPhone’s Wi-Fi and connect your iPhone to the adapter via Bluetooth.
After the connection is established, you can use Apple CarPlay wirelessly on your car’s display system. Next time you want to connect the OTTOCAST adapter, you’ll be able to do so wirelessly.
With the OTTOCAST Wireless CarPlay Adapter, you can control the various CarPlay features using voice control (Siri) and manually through the touchscreen and knob. You can also enable Night Mode on the CarPlay display when needed.
However, one thing to note is that the OTTOCAST adapter does not work with BMW or Tesla car models.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
OTTOCAST Wireless CarPlay Adapter for iPhone – 2024 Upgrade Wired to Wireless Apple Carplay Dongle -… | Buy on Amazon |
OTTOCAST Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 0.96 ounces |
Dimensions | 2.2 x 2.2 x 0.6 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
OTTOCAST Pros ✅
- Setup process is easy
- Comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable and a USB-A to USB-C cable
- Good Bluetooth connectivity strength and provides a reliable connection
OTTOCAST Cons ❌
- Expensive for the features it provides
- Does not support BMW and Tesla cars
- Has compatibility issues with Sony headsets
OTTOCAST Price
The OTTOCAST Wireless CarPlay Adapter comes at a price tag of $92.00.
URJD
URJD Wireless CarPlay Adapter (2023 Upgrade) is a compact wired-to-wired CarPlay adapter that works with up to 98% of cars with factory-wired CarPlay, according to the brand. The adapter lets you control various functions of Apple CarPlay, like navigation, music, podcasts, or messages through voice commands.
Although Siri can help you take control of CarPlay functionality with your voice, you will also be able to manually choose the desired function using the touchscreen and knobs on the car’s display system.
When connecting it to the car’s display unit for the first time, it should take 5-15 seconds for the initial connection, claims URJD. After you establish the connection, the URJD CarPlay Adapter will connect wirelessly within 5-10 seconds from the next time.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
URJD Wireless CarPlay Adapter, 2023 Upgrade, Widely Compatible, Fast Auto Connect, Compact Design,… | Buy on Amazon |
URJD Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 1.1 ounces |
Dimensions | 5.31 x 2.56 x 0.47 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, WiFi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
URJD Pros ✅
- Gives the CarPlay interface a sleek look
- Easy to install
URJD Cons ❌
- Lags when you try to change songs
- Can shut down randomly
URJD Price
The URJD Wireless CarPlay Adapter (2023 Upgrade) comes at a price tag of $59.99.
Eleacc 5.0
The Eleacc 5.0 Double Din Car Stereo Radio includes a 7-inch touchscreen car stereo, a 12-LED wick rearview camera, and a user manual. The 7-inch touch-enabled TFT display has a resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels and supports 1920 x 1080p videos. The rearview camera is waterproof, features night vision, and has a 170-degree viewing angle. When the car is in reverse gear, the camera switches on automatically.
The Eleacc 5.0 Double Din Car Stereo Radio works with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so it is also useful for Android phone users. The device gives you access to navigation via GPS and can make calls, check emails and notifications, and listen to music, thereby providing a reliable CarPlay experience.
Eleacc advises buyers to use the original USB cable that came with their phones for Android Auto/CarPlay connection. The brand also claims that the car stereo radio unit is resistant to severe temperatures and vibrations.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
Eleacc 5.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter 2023 Newest 5G Chip Box for iPhone, Fastest Apple Car Play… | Buy on Amazon |
Eleacc 5.0 Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 2.53 pounds |
Dimensions | 4.33 x 7.05 x 4.05 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 7.1 and later |
Eleacc 5.0 Pros ✅
- Compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Upgraded built-in mic for clear communication over calls
- Waterproof rear-view camera unit is included with the pack
- Provides a user-friendly interface
Eleacc 5.0 Cons ❌
- Expensive product
- Users have to power off and restart the car if the head unit software crashes
- Randomly shuts down sometimes
Eleacc 5.0 Price
The Eleacc 5.0 Double Din Car Stereo Radio is priced at $119.98.
Auformer
The Auformer CarPlay Wireless Adapter is an affordable option and comes with an inbuilt 5G chip, which is compatible with 5.8GHz Wi-Fi for a lag-free Apple CarPlay experience and seamless connection. The 5G chip increases the processing speed so that your CarPlay experience remains smooth throughout.
The company states that the adapter is compatible with 98% of factory-wired CarPlay cars manufactured from 2017 to 2023. With the adapter, you can control many CarPlay functions like Maps, calls, messages, music, and news.
The Auformer wireless CarPlay adapter supports OTA software updates so that your adapter unit has the latest features and upgrades as soon as they are rolled out.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
CarPlay Wireless Adapter, 2023 Newest Wireless CarPlay Adapter for iPhone, CarPlay Wireless Dongle… | Buy on Amazon |
Auformer Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 3.2 ounces |
Dimensions | 4.49 x 3.74 x 1.5 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 8 and later |
Auformer Pros ✅
- Supports 5.8GHz Wi-Fi frequency band for a stable CarPlay connection and faster response
- Comes with OTA software updates
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Auformer Cons ❌
- Does not support BMW, Sony, Skoda, and Tesla cars
- Does not support cars that come with only iPod function, like Nissan Loulan Murano 2013
- Has common issues with connectivity via Bluetooth
Auformer Price
The Auformer CarPlay Wireless Adapter is priced at $40.84.
CPCGER
The CPCGER Wireless CarPlay Adapter comes with an inbuilt 5GHz Wi-Fi module to identify and pair up with your iPhone swiftly so that you can set up the Apple CarPlay system. Besides voice control through Siri, the CPCGER CarPlay adapter supports touchscreen, steering wheel control, and OEM knob operation.
After you plug in the CPCGER adapter for the first time to set it up, it will start immediately as soon as the car engine fires up the next time. The built-in 5GHz Wi-Fi module will quickly identify your phone and establish a wireless CarPlay connection. The adapter supports all the original Apple CarPlay applications and provides a reliable CarPlay experience.
The CPCGER CarPlay adapter is compatible with a wide range of car models, with the brand claiming compatibility with over 600 car models. However, buyers should take note that the CPCGER Wireless CarPlay Adapter is meant only for a range of vehicles that come with a factory-wired Apple CarPlay system.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
CPCGER Wireless Carplay Adapter 2024 Upgrade Apple Carplay Wireless Adapter Convert Wired to… | Buy on Amazon |
CPCGER Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 1.44 ounces |
Dimensions | 4.61 x 2.09 x 0.51 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
CPCGER Pros ✅
- Unit has a compact size
- Very easy and quick to set up
- Provides reliable connectivity and consistent performance
CPCGER Cons ❌
- Can lag a bit when switching apps
CPCGER Price
The CPCGER Wireless CarPlay Adapter is priced at $69.99.
CarlinKit 3.0
The CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter comes equipped with a 5G chip for more processing power. The 2023 upgraded version is compatible with the 5.8GHz WIFI rate for faster response time than the 5GHz model.
The CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter takes about 10-20 seconds to pair up with your iPhone and convert your car’s infotainment system into a CarPlay system. Once it gets paired, it will take 5-10 seconds to auto-connect the next time you switch on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone.
The CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter supports all car models from 2015 to 2024 that have a factory-wired CarPlay system. It does not support Tesla cars.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter – Convert Wired CarPlay to Wireless in Factory Cars,… | Buy on Amazon |
CarlinKit 3.0 Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 4.8 ounces |
Dimensions | 3.14 x 1.81 x 0.43 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
CarlinKit 3.0 Pros ✅
- Can be set up by beginners with ease
- Simple to operate
CarlinKit 3.0 Cons ❌
- Factory reset option is not provided
- CarPlay screen sometimes blacks out
CarlinKit 3.0 Price
The CarlinKit 3.0 Wireless CarPlay Adapter comes at a price tag of $56.35.
AutoSky Wireless Adapter
The AutoSky Wireless USB CarPlay Adapter aims to enhance your driving experience by giving you access to CarPlay functions like calls, messages, and music using your voice. Plug in the USB adapter to your car’s infotainment unit and switch on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi on your iPhone for pairing. Once paired, you have the option of voice and manual control of your CarPlay system.
The AutoSky Wireless USB adapter is compatible with 98% of cars from 2016 with a factory-wired CarPlay system. It will not work with any car that does not have the original built-in factory-wired CarPlay.
Once you have connected the AutoSky Wireless USB adapter to your iPhone, scan the QR code in the product manual. This will provide you with the latest software update.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
Wireless CarPlay Adapter – Newest and Fastest 5Ghz – AutoSky – Plug and Play – USB-C and USB-A… | Buy on Amazon |
AutoSky Wireless Adapter Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 2.08 ounces |
Dimensions | 2 x 1 x 1 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 or later |
AutoSky Wireless Adapter Pros ✅
- Has a sturdy build
- Comes with a small form factor
- Very lightweight and portable
AutoSky Wireless Adapter Cons ❌
- Incompatible with Sony stereos
- Loses connection often
AutoSky Wireless Adapter Price
The AutoSky Wireless USB CarPlay Adapter is priced at $39.99.
Teeran
The Teeran CarPlay wireless adapter takes about 5-15 seconds to set up for the first time. Once you have paired your iPhone with the adapter and can access the CarPlay features, the adapter will auto-reconnect the next time you plug it in.
The Teeran CarPlay wireless adapter lets you keep the original car control in your hands. For example, you can still control the steering wheel, the OEM knob, and the touchscreen even after connecting the Teeran adapter wirelessly with your car’s head unit.
Furthermore, the wireless adapter works only with car models from 2015 that come with inbuilt factory-wired CarPlay.
Preview | Product | Rating | |
---|---|---|---|
Teeran CarPlay Wireless Adapter for Factory Wired CarPlay 2024 Upgrade Plug & Play Dongle Converts… | Buy on Amazon |
Teeran Specifications
Product Details | Product Specifications |
---|---|
Weight | 4.4 ounces |
Dimensions | 5.3 x 2.56 x 0.47 inches |
Power Options | Car’s USB port |
Wireless Connectivity Standard | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
Compatible iPhone Model and iOS Version | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
Teeran Pros ✅
- Good build quality
- Fast and stable connection
- Supports latest firmware updates
Teeran Cons ❌
- Expensive for the features it provides
Teeran Price
The Teeran Carplay Wireless Adapter is priced at $79.99.
Best Wireless CarPlay Adapters: A Comparison
Wireless CarPlay Adapters | Weight | Dimensions | Wireless Connectivity Standard | Platforms Supported |
---|---|---|---|---|
WQQBFF | 1.44 ounces | 5.31 x 2.56 x 0.47 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 13 and above |
AutoSky 2023 Pro Edition | 2 ounces | 2 x 1 x 1 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and above |
OTTOCAST | 0.96 ounces | 2.2 x 2.2 x 0.6 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
URJD | 1.1 ounces | 5.31 x 2.56 x 0.47 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
Eleacc 5.0 | 2.53 pounds (40.48 ounces) | 4.33 x 7.05 x 4.05 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 7.1 and later |
Auformer | 3.2 ounces | 4.49 x 3.74 x 1.5 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
CPCGER | 1.44 ounces | 4.61 x 2.09 x 0.51 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
CarlinKit 3.0 | 4.8 ounces | 3.14 x 1.81 x 0.43 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
AutoSky Wireless USB | 2.08 ounces | 2 x 1 x 1 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 or later |
Teeran | 4.4 ounces | 5.3 x 2.56 x 0.47 inches | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | iPhone 6 and above, iOS 10 and later |
How To Choose The Best CarPlay Wireless Adapter For Your Car?
There are 7 major factors to remember when purchasing a CarPlay wireless adapter.
- Car Compatibility Based on Year of Make: Check if your car model is compatible with the CarPlay adapter by year of make. For example, some wireless CarPlay adapters work with car models from 2015 while others support car models from 2016.
- Built-In Factory Wired CarPlay System: Confirm whether your car has a built-in factory-wired CarPlay system, as most wireless CarPlay adapters support only factory-wired systems.
- Chip Used: The more advanced the chip, the more the wireless CarPlay adapter’s processing power and, hence, its response time to your commands. 5G chips work well with CarPlay systems. With an advanced chip, you won’t have to worry about the adapter suffering from lags too frequently.
- Straightforward Setup: The CarPlay adapter should be easy to set up and also reconnect automatically and quickly each time it is used after the first pairing.
- Support for High Wi-Fi Frequency for Stable Connection: Look for support for the latest Wi-Fi frequency bands like 5GHz or 5.8GHz in the CarPlay Adapter model you plan to purchase. With the new frequency bands support, the connection is going to be more stable.
- Audio Quality: The audio quality of the CarPlay system must be good, once you plug in the wireless CarPlay adapter and access music in CarPlay. Some latency issues are common when changing songs, but the overall audio quality has to be high.
- Software and Firmware Updates: One of the other major factors in deciding whether you should go for a particular CarPlay wireless adapter is the availability of the latest software updates. Check if the adapter model gets regular firmware/ software updates.
FAQs
No, not all Apple CarPlay wireless adapters are compatible with all iPhone models. Most of them support iPhone 6 and newer models. Make sure that before buying a CarPlay adapter for your car, you check for the iPhone models and iOS versions your chosen CarPlay Adapter supports.
Yes, using a wireless CarPlay adapter will consume the battery of your iPhone. However, how much of the battery is consumed depends on several factors, like the length of the trip, the time spent on a call, how long navigation stays active while driving, or how long you listen to music or podcasts.
The general way to set up a wireless CarPlay adapter is to first start the engine of your car and plug the adapter into the USB port of the car’s display unit. After that, switch on the phone’s Bluetooth and Wi-Fi and check for the Bluetooth signal on the car’s display unit. The boot time is usually 5-10 seconds at the most. Then, pair the display unit with your iPhone.
After this process is completed, the car’s display unit will turn into a CarPlay system with all the CarPlay apps easily viewable. You can then control the apps with voice input or through the touchscreen.