Best Cheap Car Subwoofer: 10 Models Reviewed for 2025

I remember trying to find a solid upgrade for my factory sound system without emptying my wallet. It’s tough sifting through all the options to find a subwoofer that actually delivers deep, punchy bass at a reasonable price. We’ve done the heavy lifting, comparing 10 different models to help you find the best cheap car subwoofer that fits your budget and your vehicle, whether you need a component woofer for a custom box or a compact, powered unit for under the seat.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Pyle 8″ Car Subwoofer Speaker – 800 Watt Dual 4…	View on Amazon
	8-Inch Car Subwoofer with 600W Power, High-Performance…	View on Amazon
	Pyle Lanzar 6.5” Car Subwoofer Speaker – Black Non-Pressed…	View on Amazon
	RECOIL RW8D2 Echo Series 8 Inch 400 Watts Power Dual…	View on Amazon
	5 CORE 8 Inch Subwoofer 500 Watt Car Sub Woofer…	View on Amazon
	B2 Audio 2″ 4-Ohm Rampage RC2 Subwoofer for RC Cars	View on Amazon
	Rockville SS8P 400W 8″ Slim Under-Seat Active Subwoofer,…	View on Amazon
	10 Inch 1200W Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer with Built-in…	View on Amazon
	Pyle 3.5” Single Voice Coil Car Subwoofer – 20 Watts…	View on Amazon
	1000w Slim Under Seat Subwoofers with Amp,Car Subwoofer amp…	View on Amazon

Pyle 8″ Car Subwoofer Speaker – 800 Watt Dual 4 Ohm Voice Coil, Treated Foam Surround, Non-Pressed Paper Cone, 60oz Magnet – Powerful Vehicle Audio Bass Woofer for Car Stereo Systems – PLPW8D (Black)

This Pyle PLPW8D is a fantastic budget choice for component enthusiasts. Boasting 800 watts of peak power, this 8-inch woofer uses a dual 4-ohm voice coil setup, offering wiring flexibility for different amplifier configurations. The non-pressed paper cone and treated foam surround are designed for reliable performance, making it a rugged yet affordable option for adding significant bass depth to your vehicle. It’s a great way to start building a custom system without spending a fortune.

Key features that stand out:
– Dual 4 Ohm Impedance: Offers wiring flexibility (can be wired as 4 or 8 Ohm).
– High Peak Power: Handles up to 800 Watts peak (400W RMS).
– Treated Foam Surround: Provides durability and minimizes fatigue.
– Easy Mounting: 3.7” mounting depth.

Pros:
– Excellent power handling for the price point.
– Dual voice coils provide versatile wiring options.
– Compact 8-inch size fits into smaller enclosures.

Cons:
– Requires a separate external amplifier to drive it effectively.

Best for: Value-focused custom box builders looking for maximum peak power handling.

Expert Opinion: This component woofer offers impressive power specs for its category. Its dual voice coil is a standout feature for budget wiring flexibility, making it one of the better choices when looking for a best cheap car subwoofer in the component market.

8-Inch Car Subwoofer with 600W Power, High-Performance Sound, Durable Stainless Steel Body, and Efficient Heat Dissipation – Compact, Powerful Bass for Car Audio Systems,Easy Under-Seat Installation

If you’re tight on space but refuse to compromise on solid low-frequency output, this all-in-one powered subwoofer is an excellent contender. Rated at 600W peak power, this under-seat unit features a durable stainless steel body designed with multiple cooling holes to ensure efficient heat dissipation. Its easy installation design means you can slide it right under the passenger seat, instantly upgrading your bass response with minimal effort and clutter.

Key features that stand out:
– Under-Seat Installation: Space-saving and compact design.
– Efficient Heat Dissipation: Multiple cooling vents prevent overheating.
– Stainless Steel Body: Extremely durable construction for longevity.
– Wide Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 150 Hz for deep, impactful lows.

Pros:
– Integrated amp means no need for an external amplifier.
– Very durable and protected by a robust alloy mesh.
– Provides deep bass without sacrificing trunk space.

Cons:
– Power handling is competitive, but specialized custom component subs might hit harder.

Best for: Drivers who need a powerful, space-saving, all-in-one bass solution.

Expert Opinion: The use of stainless steel and active cooling in this powered unit is smart engineering for a budget sub. It’s a convenient plug-and-play choice if minimizing installation complexity is a priority when shopping for a best cheap car subwoofer.

Pyle Lanzar 6.5” Car Subwoofer Speaker – Black Non-Pressed Paper Cone, Aluminum Voice Coil, 4 Ohm Impedance, 600 Watt Power and Foam Edge Suspension for Vehicle Audio Stereo Sound System – MAXP64

For those working with extremely tight spaces or smaller custom enclosures, the Pyle Lanzar 6.5-inch woofer delivers 600 Watts of peak power. This component features a single 4-ohm impedance and uses a high-temperature aluminum voice coil for resilience. The small size, combined with a shallow 3-inch mounting depth, makes it highly versatile for installation in tight vehicle door panels or small custom console boxes, proving that great bass doesn’t always require massive speakers.

Key features that stand out:
– Small Diameter: Compact 6.5-inch size.
– Shallow Mounting Depth: Only 3 inches required.
– Foam Edge Suspension: Aids durability and safe operation.
– High-Temperature Voice Coil: Built for prolonged performance.

Pros:
– Ideal for custom installations where space is severely limited.
– Very easy to install with its shallow depth.
– Durable construction materials used.

Cons:
– Lower bass output compared to larger 8-inch or 10-inch models.

Best for: Installation in classic cars, trucks, or custom spots requiring a tiny footprint.

Expert Opinion: This is a niche pick, but a necessary one. If you have absolutely no room for a larger subwoofer, this 6.5-inch model provides substantial sound improvement over stock speakers, making it an excellent choice among best cheap car subwoofer options.

RECOIL RW8D2 Echo Series 8 Inch 400 Watts Power Dual 2 Ohm Voice Coil, 2″ Black-Coated 4 Layer High Temperature Voice Coil, Competition Grade Pressed Paper Cone, Car Audio Subwoofer

The RECOIL RW8D2 Echo Series is designed for serious sound enthusiasts who still need a bargain. This 8-inch component subwoofer handles a solid 200W RMS (400W Peak) and features an advanced dual 2-ohm voice coil for enhanced wiring flexibility and impedance matching. It utilizes a competition-grade pressed paper cone reinforced with black stitching and an advanced air flow cooling system, helping it handle sustained, heavy bass sessions without overheating.

Key features that stand out:
– Dual 2 Ohm Voice Coil: Excellent flexibility for low-impedance amplifier setups.
– Competition Grade Cone: Pressed paper cone with NBR surround for minimal distortion.
– Advanced Air Flow Cooling: Optimizes thermal performance during intense use.
– Custom Basket and Gasket: Designed for easy, air-tight mounting.

Pros:
– Designed for high-temperature and sustained use.
– Dual 2 Ohm setup is ideal for modern mono amps.
– Strong, durable construction aimed at longevity.

Cons:
– Requires a strong amp capable of handling a low 1 Ohm load (when wired parallel).

Best for: Budget audiophiles who prioritize low distortion and thermal management in their component woofer.

Expert Opinion: The RECOIL Echo series punches above its weight. The dedication to thermal management and the robust 2-inch voice coil show that this component is built to last, positioning it as a strong contender if you are looking for a powerful best cheap car subwoofer.

5 CORE 8 Inch Subwoofer 500 Watt Car Sub Woofer Speaker 4 Ohm w Deep Bass Replacement Component Subwoofers for Auto Truck Vehicle (2Pcs)

This offering from 5 CORE is unique because it comes as a pair, giving you two 8-inch subwoofers for one low price. Each unit provides 50W RMS (500W peak) and features a single 4-ohm impedance, making it highly compatible for replacing factory speakers or building a dual-sub setup on a strict budget. They use a strong 13 Oz Y30 Magnet and a high-sensitivity design (86 dB) to ensure loud and clear sound without requiring excessive power.

Key features that stand out:
– Sold as a Pair (2Pcs): Excellent value for building a dual system.
– High Sensitivity (86 dB): Efficient performance, making the most of amplifier power.
– Strong Y30 Magnet: Ensures high efficiency and distortion-free bass.
– Single 4 Ohm Impedance: Easy compatibility with most standard car amplifiers.

Pros:
– Unbeatable price per unit for those needing multiple subwoofers.
– Easy to power due to high sensitivity.
– Simple 4-ohm wiring configuration.

Cons:
– Lower RMS power rating than some competitors, focusing more on replacement duties.

Best for: Budget enthusiasts needing two component subs for a symmetrical or high-volume build.

Expert Opinion: The value proposition here is incredible. While the individual RMS power is lower than some others on this list, getting two functional 8-inch subs means you can easily achieve greater output volume simply by doubling the drivers, making it a very economical choice among best cheap car subwoofer packages.

B2 Audio 2″ 4-Ohm Rampage RC2 Subwoofer for RC Cars

While technically designed for RC vehicles, this B2 Audio Rampage model is often sought by custom builders for extremely small, novelty audio projects. It provides a compact 30W RMS output with a 4-ohm impedance, utilizing an authentic B2 Audio design with a pressed paper cone and foam surround. Note that this unit is incredibly small, offering a realistic audio experience designed to emulate larger subwoofers in tiny spaces, not for typical car audio bass performance.

Key features that stand out:
– Extremely Compact Size: 2.24” overall diameter.
– Authentic B2 Audio Design: Quality construction materials for its size.
– 30W RMS Power: Appropriate for small-scale projects.
– Seamless Installation: Precise fit with a 1.95” cut-out diameter.

Pros:
– Perfect for novelty projects or extreme custom installations.
– High-quality components for its intended niche.
– Unique and very small footprint.

Cons:
– Not suitable for adding real low-end bass to a full-sized vehicle audio system.

Best for: Niche hobbyists, custom builders, or small display projects.

Expert Opinion: We included this product as a fun outlier. It’s important to understand this isn’t a true car subwoofer upgrade, but if your idea of finding the best cheap car subwoofer involves a highly specialized micro-build, this is a premium tiny component.

Rockville SS8P 400W 8″ Slim Under-Seat Active Subwoofer, High-Level Inputs, Cast Aluminum Enclosure, for Car/Truck Audio Systems

The Rockville SS8P is a highly popular active (powered) subwoofer, known for its extremely slim 2.8-inch profile, making it a perfect fit under nearly any vehicle seat. This 8-inch unit delivers 400W peak power and simplifies installation with a built-in amplifier that features high-level inputs and auto turn-on technology. The durable cast aluminum enclosure helps dissipate heat, ensuring longevity even when hidden under the seat.

Key features that stand out:
– Slim Profile: Only 2.8″ height for under-seat installation.
– Active (Powered) Design: Integrated amp and adjustable controls.
– Auto Turn-On Technology: Simplifies connection to factory head units.
– Cast Aluminum Enclosure: Excellent heat management and durability.

Pros:
– Great combination of power and space-saving design.
– All-in-one solution minimizes installation headaches.
– Includes a remote bass knob for easy adjustments.

Cons:
– Bass depth may not satisfy listeners seeking competition-level SPL.

Best for: Truck owners and SUV drivers needing powerful bass without sacrificing storage space.

Expert Opinion: If you’re looking for the best cheap car subwoofer that is also a shallow mount powered unit, the Rockville SS8P is frequently recommended. The auto turn-on feature is a huge benefit for integrating with modern or factory head units easily.

10 Inch 1200W Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier – Powered Subwoofer for Car/Truck, High/Low Level Inputs, Remote Control, Enhanced Bass (14″ L x 10.2″ W x 3″ H)

Stepping up the power game, this 10-inch slim powered subwoofer delivers a massive 1200W peak output while maintaining an ultra-thin 3-inch profile. This unit is built for superior performance and features an advanced cast aluminum shell that the manufacturer claims provides 300% better heat dissipation than standard iron shells. It offers pro-level sound customization with adjustable gain, bass boost, and crossover settings via the included remote control.

Key features that stand out:
– High 1200W Peak Power: Exceptional output for a slim unit.
– 10-Inch Driver: Larger surface area moves more air for deeper bass.
– Cast Aluminum Shell: Optimized for thermal management.
– Studio-Quality Frequency: Handles lows down to 20Hz.

Pros:
– Extremely powerful for a shallow-mount unit.
– Provides deep, rich frequency response.
– Includes a generous 2-year warranty for peace of mind.

Cons:
– Larger dimensions might make installation difficult in very small passenger footwells.

Best for: Users wanting the highest possible bass volume and depth from a discrete, powered, under-seat enclosure.

Expert Opinion: This 10-inch model is a beast in a slim package. It addresses the common limitation of shallow-mount subs—lack of depth—by increasing the driver size and power, making it one of the most powerful candidates for the title of best cheap car subwoofer in the powered category.

Pyle 3.5” Single Voice Coil Car Subwoofer – 20 Watts at 4-Ohm Car Audio Powered Subwoofer, PP Cone with Rubber Edge, Designed for Custom Audio Car, Truck, Mobile Vehicle Applications – PLMG35

The Pyle PLMG35 is another specialized, tiny component designed not necessarily for overwhelming bass, but for filling in gaps in frequency response where a full-sized subwoofer just won’t fit. This 3.5-inch single voice coil sub handles 20 Watts and features a PP cone with a rubber edge for durability. It’s perfect for highly customized installs, like dashboard or console enclosures, adding a surprising amount of mid-bass punch for its size.

Key features that stand out:
– Tiny 3.5-Inch Size: Highly specialized for unique mounting spots.
– 4-Ohm Impedance: Standard compatibility.
– Durable Construction: PP cone and rubber edge.
– Versatile: Improves sound quality significantly over typical tiny speakers.

Pros:
– Fits into the smallest openings imaginable.
– Adds crucial mid-bass definition to systems.
– Very affordable for specialized installations.

Cons:
– Not a standalone solution for deep, trunk-rattling bass.

Best for: Specialty systems, motorcycles, or filling in missing mid-bass frequencies in complex setups.

Expert Opinion: Like the 2-inch model, this 3.5-inch woofer serves a unique purpose. It’s not about raw power, but about utilizing every available inch of space to enhance the overall sound profile, a smart move for those looking for a subtle best cheap car subwoofer enhancement.

1000w Slim Under Seat Subwoofers with Amp,Car Subwoofer amp with Ambient Light,3.2″ Height Amplified Subs High/Low Level Input for Car/Truck Audio,Powered Subwoofer and Amp Package Wire Kit Deep Bass

This powered 1000W subwoofer system combines solid performance with aesthetic flair, including built-in ambient lighting for a subtle, modern look. With a slim 3.2-inch height, it fits discreetly under seats while offering 220 Watts RMS power. It features high and low-level inputs, an auto turn-on function, and is constructed from cast aluminum for excellent heat dissipation. This system comes complete with a wiring kit, making it a true all-in-one package ready for immediate installation.

Key features that stand out:
– All-in-One Package: Includes wiring kit, remote, and built-in amp.
– Ambient Light Feature: Adds a unique visual element to the install.
– High RMS Power (220W): Strong sustained bass output.
– Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) Power Supply: Enhanced efficiency and reliability.

Pros:
– Wiring kit inclusion saves money and time.
– Highly efficient and reliable due to the PWM power supply.
– Excellent sound customization features built-in.

Cons:
– Ambient light feature might be unnecessary for some users if mounted fully out of sight.

Best for: Beginners who want a powerful, complete installation package for deep bass enjoyment, coupled with modern aesthetics.

Expert Opinion: This is arguably the most beginner-friendly product on the list. By including the full wire kit, it significantly lowers the total cost and complexity of getting a powerful best cheap car subwoofer up and running quickly.

Helpful Comparison Short Insights

When comparing the best cheap car subwoofer options, the first decision is component vs. powered. Component subs (like the Pyle PLPW8D or RECOIL RW8D2) offer higher raw power and customization but require a separate amplifier and custom enclosure, increasing total cost and complexity. Powered subs (like the Rockville SS8P or the 10-Inch 1200W model) are simpler, all-in-one solutions designed for quick installation, especially under a seat.

For space constraints, the choice narrows significantly. If you have absolutely no trunk space, a slim, under-seat unit is mandatory. Both the Rockville SS8P (8-inch) and the 10 Inch 1200W model (10-inch) excel here. The 10-inch powered models will provide noticeably deeper bass due to their larger cone area, even if the physical height difference is only half an inch.

If you’re building a classic system or need to replace stock woofers in tight spots, look at the smaller component options. The Pyle Lanzar 6.5” and the Pyle 8″ PLPW8D offer reliable, if less earth-shaking, bass and are perfect for shallow depths or small custom boxes.

Finally, consider the wiring flexibility. Component subs like the RECOIL RW8D2 with its Dual 2 Ohm coils are fantastic for pairing with powerful mono-block amplifiers, while the 5 CORE 8 Inch pair offers incredible value for creating a dual-sub setup on a tight budget.

The Final Verdict

Choosing the best cheap car subwoofer depends entirely on your vehicle, budget, and desired outcome. We’ve broken down the best choices into three distinct categories:

The Best Value Component Subwoofer:
The Pyle 8″ Car Subwoofer Speaker – PLPW8D wins here. Its 8-inch size is versatile, the dual voice coil offers the most wiring flexibility for future amplifier upgrades, and the 800W peak rating makes it a powerhouse for its price class.

The Best All-in-One Powered Subwoofer (Space Saver):
For sheer performance and convenience in a slim package, the 10 Inch 1200W Slim Under Seat Car Subwoofer with Built-in Amplifier stands out. The 10-inch driver delivers the best depth and volume you can get from an under-seat unit, making it a true bass enhancement.

The Easiest System for Beginners:
The 1000w Slim Under Seat Subwoofers with Amp is the clear winner for novices. By bundling the amplifier and the full wiring kit, it eliminates common installation frustrations and keeps the overall investment impressively low for a robust, functional system.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Cheap Car Subwoofer

What is the difference between Peak Power and RMS Power?

This is crucial when shopping for any best cheap car subwoofer. Peak power (e.g., 1000W) is the maximum power the subwoofer can handle for a brief moment. RMS (Root Mean Square) power (e.g., 200W) is the continuous, sustained power the subwoofer can handle safely over a long period. Always match your amplifier’s RMS output to the subwoofer’s RMS rating for optimal performance and longevity.

Do I need a separate amplifier for a budget subwoofer?

It depends on the type of subwoofer you choose. Component subwoofers (like the Pyle PLPW8D) are passive and require a separate external amplifier. Powered subwoofers (often called active or amplified subs, like the Rockville SS8P) have the amplifier built directly into the enclosure, simplifying installation dramatically.

Are shallow mount subwoofers as good as deep component subwoofers?

Shallow mount subwoofers are fantastic for saving space (fitting under a seat or behind a truck seat), but physics dictates that they cannot reproduce the lowest frequencies as effortlessly as a traditional, deep-mount component subwoofer in a custom enclosure. If your goal is clean, enhanced bass without sacrificing space, shallow mount is great. If your goal is rattling windows and very deep bass, you need the bigger magnet and deeper enclosure of a component sub.

How difficult is the installation process for a cheap car subwoofer?

Installation difficulty varies widely. Installing a powered, under-seat subwoofer (especially one with high-level inputs and auto turn-on) is relatively straightforward—often requiring just power, ground, and tapping into speaker wires. Installing a component subwoofer requires running RCA cables, installing a remote wire, finding a proper amp location, and building or buying a custom enclosure, which is much more complex and time-consuming.

Can I run a budget sub off my factory radio?

Only if you purchase a powered subwoofer that supports high-level inputs (speaker-level inputs). These units can accept the amplified signal directly from your factory radio and convert it for use in the subwoofer’s built-in amplifier. Standard passive component subwoofers require a dedicated external amplifier, which is usually installed using low-level RCA outputs from an aftermarket head unit.

How big of a subwoofer (8-inch vs. 10-inch) should I get for a small car?

For most small to medium cars, an 8-inch subwoofer provides an excellent balance of size and bass performance. If you have a slightly larger vehicle (SUV or truck) or want noticeably deeper, punchier bass, a 10-inch unit will move more air and provide a fuller sound, even among the best cheap car subwoofer selections.