KICKER Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer vs KICKER CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer (2026): Key Differences
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The kicker hideaway 10 powered under seat subwoofer vs comprt 12 inch 2 comparison highlights two distinct Kicker solutions. Both deliver bass, but they differ in design and integration. The Hideaway 10 is an all-in-one powered unit built for tight spaces. The CompRT 12 is a passive driver requiring an external amplifier. You need to decide between a complete package or a modular component based on your vehicle's constraints and audio setup.
Key differences
| Aspect | Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer | KICKER CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Speaker Type | Powered | Passive |
| Woofer Size | 10 Inch | 12 Inch |
| Amplifier | 180 Watt built-in | Not listed |
| Impedance | Not listed | DVC, 2 ohms |
| Height | 3.12 inches | 5.6 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer if
- You need a plug-and-play solution that includes the amplifier.
- You have limited vertical space under your seats.
- You want to avoid installing a separate amplifier box.
Choose KICKER CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer if
- You already have a compatible amplifier for a 2-ohm load.
- You prefer a larger 12-inch driver for deeper output.
- You need dual voice coils for wiring flexibility.
Verdict: The Hideaway 10 is the practical choice for under-seat installations where space and ease of setup are priorities. The CompRT 12 suits builders who already own an amplifier and want a larger driver size. Your decision depends on whether you need an integrated system or a standalone component.
Hideaway 10 vs CompRT 12 Specs
woofer size
The Kicker Hideaway 10 features a 10-inch driver, while the CompRT 12 uses a larger 12-inch cone. Larger drivers typically move more air, which can translate to deeper bass extension. The CompRT 12 has a physical advantage here due to its greater diameter. This size difference matters if you prioritize low-frequency output over compactness. You should consider how much cone area you need for your specific listening preferences and room size.
amplifier type
The Hideaway 10 is a powered subwoofer with a built-in 180-watt amplifier. It requires no external amp, making it an all-in-one solution. The CompRT 12 is a passive subwoofer with no integrated amplifier. You must supply your own external amplifier to drive it. The Hideaway 10 offers simpler installation for those without existing amp gear. The CompRT 12 requires you to already own a compatible amplifier.
size
The Hideaway 10 is ultra-compact, measuring just 3.12 inches high. It fits easily under most car seats. The CompRT 12 is taller at 5.6 inches and wider at 14.3 inches. It is designed for trunk or cargo area mounting rather than under-seat use. The Hideaway 10 wins for tight spaces. The CompRT 12 needs more vertical clearance and floor space for proper installation in your vehicle.
impedance
The CompRT 12 has a dual voice coil configuration with 2-ohm impedance. This allows for flexible wiring options to match various amplifier outputs. The Hideaway 10 has a fixed internal amplifier and does not list external impedance options. The CompRT 12 offers more compatibility with different external amplifiers. You can wire it in series or parallel to achieve desired load. The Hideaway 10 is fixed and does not offer this flexibility.
connectivity
The Hideaway 10 includes a remote bass control and uses a Quick-Connect Molex plug harness. This simplifies wiring and allows you to adjust bass levels from the driver seat. The CompRT 12 has no listed remote control or quick-connect harness. It connects directly to an amplifier via standard terminals. The Hideaway 10 provides more convenient control features. The CompRT 12 relies on your amplifier’s controls for adjustment.
Which Kicker Subwoofer Fits Your Needs
Drivers needing compact, plug-and-play under-seat bass
The Hideaway 10 includes a 180-watt amplifier and remote bass control. Its ultra-compact height of 3.12 inches allows installation under seats. The Quick-Connect Molex plug simplifies wiring. You get a complete powered solution without needing an external amp. This integrated design saves space while delivering bass in tight vehicle areas.
Installers wanting flexible wiring with external amplifiers
The CompRT 12 features dual voice coils with a 2-ohm impedance. This configuration offers greater installation flexibility when pairing with various external amplifiers. The 12-inch driver provides larger surface area for air movement. Its thin 5.6-inch depth fits in limited spaces while maintaining structural integrity for high-power handling scenarios.
Users prioritizing deeper bass extension and cooling
The larger 12-inch cone of the CompRT 12 typically moves more air than the 10-inch unit. It also includes forced-air cooling that operates 20% cooler for increased reliability. The high-mass solid pole piece aids heat dissipation. These thermal management features support sustained performance during extended listening sessions.
Buyers seeking a complete, self-contained bass system
This unit combines the subwoofer and amplifier into one package. The 180-watt amp is matched to the 10-inch driver. You do not need to source a separate amplifier or crossover. The aluminum frame adds durability. The included remote allows you to adjust bass levels from the driver seat without reaching for the head unit.
The products compared
Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer
Best for: tight under-seat installations
- Woofer Size
- 10"
- Power Handling
- 180 W
- Enclosure Type
- Low-profile
- Connectivity
- Quick-Connect Molex plug and harness
- Application
- Cars
- Speaker Type
- Powered
View on Amazon: Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer Affiliate link
This is a 10-inch powered subwoofer designed for under-seat installation. It features a 180-watt amplifier and measures just 3.12 inches high. The unit includes a remote bass control and uses a quick-connect harness for simple wiring. Its aluminum frame and compact dimensions make it suitable for vehicles with limited space. You get a self-contained solution that fits in tight areas without requiring a separate amplifier.
Pros
- 180-watt built-in amplifier
- Ultra-compact 3.12-inch height
- Includes remote bass control
- Quick-connect Molex plug harness
- Aluminum frame construction
Cons
- Lower power output compared to 12-inch standalone models
- No remote volume control for the subwoofer included
- Renewed condition may vary in cosmetic appearance
Good fit if
- You need a subwoofer that fits under a seat
- You want a simple plug-and-play installation
- You prefer a compact footprint over raw power
Skip if
- You require maximum bass output from a single driver
- You have plenty of trunk space for larger enclosures
- You prefer buying brand new units with full warranties
Verdict: Kicker Hideaway 10 Powered Subwoofer is a practical choice for drivers with limited space who need a compact, easy-to-install solution. It fits well in tight under-seat areas but offers less power than larger standalone options.
KICKER CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer
Best for: Thin enclosures with external amps
- Woofer Size
- 12"
- Impedance
- Dual 2-ohm
- Dimensions
- 5.6 × 14.3 × 14.3 inches
- Weight
- 13.1 pounds
View on Amazon: KICKER CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer Affiliate link
This is a passive 12-inch subwoofer designed for thin enclosures. It features dual voice coils with a 2-ohm impedance, giving you installation flexibility. The driver uses forced-air cooling to stay 20% cooler, which improves reliability. Weighing 13.1 pounds, it measures 5.6 inches in depth. You need an external amplifier to drive it. This unit suits those prioritizing output and heat management in a compact footprint.
Pros
- 12-inch woofer size for deep bass
- Dual voice coils with 2-ohm impedance
- Forced-air cooling keeps it 20% cooler
- Thin 5.6-inch depth for tight spaces
Cons
- Requires external amplifier to function
- Heavier at 13.1 pounds compared to compact powered units
- No built-in amplifier or power source
Good fit if
- You want high output from a thin driver
- You already own a compatible amplifier
- You need dual voice coil flexibility
Skip if
- You need a plug-and-play under-seat solution
- You do not have an external amplifier
- You prefer a lightweight, self-contained unit
Verdict: Kicker CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer delivers reliable performance in a thin package. It fits well if you have an amplifier and want powerful bass without taking up much vertical space.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Kicker Hideaway 10" Powered Under-Seat Subwoofer | KICKER CompRT 12-Inch 2-Ohm Subwoofer |
|---|---|---|
| Woofer Size | 10" | 12" |
| Power Handling | 180 W | not stated |
| Enclosure Type | Low-profile | not stated |
| Impedance | not stated | Dual 2-ohm |
| Connectivity | Quick-Connect Molex plug and harness | not stated |
| Application | Cars | not stated |
| Speaker Type | Powered | not stated |
| Size | 10 Inch | 12 |
| Dimensions | 12.1 × 9.87 × 3.12 inches | 5.6 × 14.3 × 14.3 inches |
| Weight | 14 pounds | 13.1 pounds |
| Model | 46HS10 | 48CWRT122 |
| Color | not stated | black |
Frequently asked questions
Which subwoofer is better for tight under-seat spaces?
The Kicker Hideaway 10 is the better choice for tight under-seat spaces. Its height is only 3.12 inches, allowing it to fit easily under most seats. The CompRT 12 is significantly taller at 5.6 inches. This makes the Hideaway 10 the more practical option for vehicles with limited vertical clearance.
Do I need an external amplifier for the Kicker Hideaway 10?
No, you do not need an external amplifier for the Kicker Hideaway 10. It is a powered subwoofer, meaning it has a built-in amplifier. The CompRT 12 is a passive subwoofer that requires an external amplifier to function. If you want a complete solution without buying extra gear, the Hideaway 10 is the correct pick.
Which subwoofer has the larger driver size?
The Kicker CompRT 12 has the larger driver size. It features a 12-inch cone, compared to the 10-inch driver in the Hideaway 10. A larger driver typically moves more air, which can produce deeper bass. If you prioritize maximum bass output over compactness, the CompRT 12 is the superior option.
How do the dimensions compare between these two subs?
The Hideaway 10 is wider and deeper but much thinner. It measures 12.1 inches in length and 9.87 inches in width. The CompRT 12 is square, measuring 14.3 inches by 14.3 inches. The CompRT is also taller at 5.6 inches versus 3.12 inches. Your choice depends on the shape of your available installation space.
Is the CompRT 12 suitable for thin enclosures?
Yes, the CompRT 12 is suitable for thin enclosures. Its height is only 5.6 inches, making it ideal for shallow boxes. However, it is not a powered unit. You must pair it with an external amplifier. The Hideaway 10 is self-contained and does not require an enclosure or separate amp.
Which subwoofer is lighter?
The Kicker CompRT 12 is slightly lighter. It weighs 13.1 pounds, while the Hideaway 10 weighs 14 pounds. The difference is less than one pound. This minor weight variation is unlikely to affect your installation decision. You should focus more on size and power requirements when choosing between them.
Does the Hideaway 10 come with bass control?
Yes, the Hideaway 10 includes remote bass control. This feature allows you to adjust the bass level from the driver or passenger seat. The CompRT 12 is a passive component and does not include any controls. You would need to adjust bass levels through your external amplifier or head unit.