Review of the 10 Best Android Head Units
If you think that you must have a brand-new car to get an Android head unit, then you are clearly mistaken. With the rise of both in-car entertainment and massive marketplaces, you can easily get your hands on an aftermarket Android head unit without any hassle.
Moreover, the great thing about them is that they can fit into almost any car imaginable. They are easy to install, modernize your car’s interior, and offer value through integrated Android compatibility.
The head unit will offer you effortless connectivity with your Android device, Google Assistant interaction, seamless navigation, and exquisite entertainment. And the great news is, you barely have to make a dent in your bank account to get one.
For a very competitive price, you can now enjoy this luxury. So, without any further ado, let us dive right into the world of the Android head unit.
What you need to know before buying a car stereo
Getting a new car stereo might just be the best way to incorporate some luxury features and a great interface into your car. Moreover, you get to enjoy better sound quality for a richer driving experience.
But the decision to choose the right stereo for your car is not as simple as you might think. Since there are plenty of options for you to choose from, there are some key elements you need to know before you make the purchase.
So, here are the things you need to know to ensure that your car stereo is a confident and worthwhile purchase.
Source of audio
Firstly, you have to note what audio source your stereo supports, or whether it supports all sorts of audio formats. The audio format dictates the quality of the sound. This is a crucial thing that you should take note of before making the purchase.
Single DIN or Double DIN
The most common head sizes you will find in the market are the single-DIN and the double-DIN units. When it comes to size, double-DIN openings are 4 inches by 8 inches. In the case of the single units, those are 2 inches by 8 inches.
That means that, if you are willing to invest in a double-DIN unit, you will have the luxury of more options when using your stereo. Single units are also good, as well, if you are looking for something compact and have a lower budget.
Single DIN
Single DIN basically refers to the size. In most cases, single-DIN units range from 2 inches tall and 7 or 8 inches in width.
PROS:
- In most cases, single DINs are easier to install.
- Affordable solution when it comes to upgrading an outdated stereo.
- Has many features, like wireless audio, auxiliary input jack, etc.
CONS:
- As they are smaller in size, they cannot offer as many control options on the board. This results in hard-to-access controls on the panel.
- In most cases, single-DIN options do not come with a touch screen. Even though there are some touch variants on the market, they can cost quite a lot.
Double DIN
Double DIN is, in most cases, 4 inches tall. They have the same width as single-DIN units.
PROS:
- Due to the greater real estate on the board, they offer more room for controls
- Easier to access than any single-DIN variant
- Most double-DIN head units have a touch screen, which is not usually offered in single-DIN units
CONS:
- Relatively difficult to install. You need to be an expert to do it by yourself, or you’ll need to find an expert to do it
- Double-DIN units are significantly costlier
Receiver types
The type of receiver is very important to consider, as well. Maybe you are still hanging onto CDs for your favorite music. In that case, you should opt for something that supports both digital and physical receiving options.
Also, make sure your stereo supports all kinds of audio sources, like USB, AUX, SD cards, smartphones, Bluetooth, etc.
Features
This is a very long list, as there are so many features that a car stereo can offer. Let’s try to break it down for you.
When it comes to car stereos, the integration of Android smartphones is not everything. There are many other features to look for, including GPS navigation and a capacitive touch screen. Some car stereos also offer subwoofers.If you are a big fan of radios, then you should also look for a model that has built-in satellite radio features.
Now that you know all there is to know before making a purchase, let’s take a look at some of the best Android car head units available on the market at the moment.
We have decided to break it down into two sections for both double-DIN and single-DIN units. So, without any further ado, let’s check them out.
5 Best Android Car Stereos (Single DIN)
| # | Product | Images | Pros | Cons | Amazon Price |
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1 |
Soundstream VIR-7830B |
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2 |
Pyle PLTS78DUB Single-DIN Head Unit Receiver |
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3 |
EinCar Single-DIN Android 10 Head Unit |
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4 |
Alpine Hal9 iLX-F309 |
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5 |
Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX |
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Soundstream VIR-7830B
Most of the budget car stereos we see on the market are either low quality or do not have enough features. And this is exactly where the Soundstream VIR-7830B comes into play.
This model is not only competitively priced, it is also worth every single penny. The great thing about this model is that it also comes with DVD support alongside USB, AUX, and RCA
Make | Soundstream |
Model | VIR-7830B |
Head unit size | Single-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | Not specified |
Screen type | Touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Android auto |
Inputs | Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, mini AUX |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Supported |
Price | $150.31 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 3.8 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 280 |
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Specs
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Metrics
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Make
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Soundstream
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Model
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VIR-7830B
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Head unit size
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Single-DIN auto head unit
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Screen size
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7 inches
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Screen resolution
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Not specified
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Screen type
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Touch screen
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Smartphone integration
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Android auto
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Inputs
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Bluetooth, HDMI, USB, mini AUX
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HD radio
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Supported
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Satellite radio
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Supported
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Optical drive
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Supported
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Price
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$150.31
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Link to buy on Amazon
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Star rating on Amazon
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3.8 out of 5
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Total number of reviews on Amazon
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280
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Pyle PLTS78DUB Single-DIN Head Unit Receiver
The greatest thing about the Pyle PLTS78DUB is its wide range of features. This single-DIN auto head unit comes with everything you would expect in the latest car head unit. And the device’s affordable price makes it even better.
The model comes with hands-free Bluetooth technology, which allows you to receive any call or play music without having to use your hands.
The clear resolution of 1440×234 is also a great touch for the interface. The front panel is completely detachable. That means that, if you have any security concerns, you can simply detach the stereo and put it away.
Make | PYLE |
Model | PLTS78DUB |
Head unit size | Single-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 1440×234 |
Screen type | Touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Wireless Android Auto |
Inputs | Bluetooth, infrared |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Supported |
Price | $161 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 3.9 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 1158 |
EinCar Single-DIN Android 10 Head Unit
If you are a fan of amazing screens, then this is the Android head unit for you. The EinCar Single-DIN Android 10 Head Unit allows you to let go of the traditional low-end screen, letting you enjoy the greatest quality visuals.
The high compatibility of this model makes sure it fits any car, regardless of how old your car model may be. The head unit was designed to watch things on a crisp screen. Whether it is a movie, TV series, or games, this device has it all. And, the greatest part is that this comes at a very competitive price.
Make | EinCar |
Model | Single-DIN Android 10 Head Unit |
Head unit size | Single-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 1024×600 |
Screen type | Capacitive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Wired Android Auto |
Inputs | Bluetooth, 2 camera, HDMI, USB, mini AUX |
HD radio | Not supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Supported |
Price | $192 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 3.9 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 119 |
Alpine Hal9 iLX-F309
Alpine broke the tradition of a single-DIN auto head unit with a small touch screen. Because, with Alpine Hal9 iLX-F309, you get a massive 9-inch touch screen. This alone makes the model one of the most sought after in the market.
This single-DIN head unit comes with Android Auto. As a result, you get to enjoy amazing features like text message integration, Google maps, phone calls, weather, and so much more—all through voice commands only.
The model does everything you can think of (plus a bag of chips). The audio quality is also super crisp, with zero distortion.
Make | Alpine |
Model | Hal9 iLX-F309 |
Head unit size | Single-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 9 inches |
Screen resolution | 800×480 |
Screen type | Capacitive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
Inputs | Bluetooth, 2 camera, HDMI, USB, mini AUX |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Not supported |
Price | $1,499.95 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.6 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 11 |
Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX
No good aftermarket Android Auto head is bigger than the Pioneer DMH-WT8600NEX. With a whopping 10.1-inch screen, and 720p capacitive display, this is the best screen money can buy at the moment. And, for that reason alone, it is considered to be the best single-DIN auto head unit, if money is not an issue.
It comes with both wireless and wired Android Auto, alongside Apple CarPlay. The model also supports a variety of audio formats for the best sound quality and compatibility.
Make | Pioneer |
Model | DMH-WT8600NEX |
Head unit size | Single-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 10 inches |
Screen resolution | 1280×720 |
Screen type | Capacitive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Both wireless and wired Android Auto, alongside Apple CarPlay |
Inputs | Bluetooth, 2 camera, HDMI, USB, mini AUX |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Not supported |
Price | $1,299.99 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.2 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 41 |
5 Best Android Car Stereos (Single DIN)
| # | Product | Images | Pros | Cons | Amazon Price |
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1 |
Alpine ILX-W650 |
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2 |
Pioneer DMH-1500NEX |
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3 |
XTRONS TSF701L |
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4 |
ATOTO A6 Double-DIN Android Car Navigation Stereo |
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5 |
Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX |
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Alpine ILX-W650
If you want an easy-to-use interface with no confusing buttons, then this is the model for you. With crisp music and powerful features, this is—hands down—a very worthwhile investment.
This will make your drive better, with both Apple and Android compatibility. You can also access the navigation system for Google maps using voice commands.
The screen is customizable, with plenty of third-party applications, like YouTube, Spotify, XM Radio, and so on. It also automatically dims when you are not using it.
But, on the downside, you have no customization options for either the color or the background of the interface.
Make | Alpine |
Model | ILX-W650 |
Head unit size | Double-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 800×400 |
Screen type | Capacitive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
Inputs | Bluetooth, USB, 2 camera |
HD radio | Not supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Not supported |
Price | $300 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.5 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 1,373 |
Pioneer DMH-1500NEX
If you are short on budget, but still want a flagship-level double-DIN auto head unit for your car, then there is no better option than the Pioneer DMH-1500NEX.
You can use this Android head unit to seamlessly control the music library on your phone. The model also comes with a 7-inch screen and great Google Assistant integration.
The audio quality is clear, and it has an impressive high-frequency tone, unlike other models on the market.
You also get impressive expandability, with six-channel preamp outputs, dual camera input, and so much more.
Make | Pioneer |
Model | DMH-1500NEX |
Head unit size | Double-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 2520×480 |
Screen type | Resistive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto |
Inputs | Bluetooth, USB, 2 camera, RCA, mini AUX |
HD radio | Not supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Not supported |
Price | $350 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.7 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 554 |
XTRONS TSF701L
Looking for the perfect marriage between good sound quality and amazing navigation? Then this XTRONS model is worth considering. The built-in sound setting is the device’s first attractive feature. The equalizer comes with eight presets, with bass and surround sound filters from the get-go. You also can tweak almost anything and everything to do with the sound with time.
And, for navigation, it does not get any better than this. The amazing GPS ensures the perfect positioning of your car on the map.
Make | XTRONS |
Model | TSF701L |
Head unit size | Double-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 1024×600 |
Screen type | Capacitive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Android auto |
Inputs | Bluetooth, DSP |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Not supported |
Price | $189.99 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.1 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 151 |
ATOTO A6 Double-DIN Android Car Navigation Stereo
We have not seen any other car navigation stereo systems with so many features at such a competitive price. Even the model that comes closest to matching it is priced over $1,000.
Whether you are looking for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, amazing connectivity, or built-in WIFI, it has everything.
The greatest thing about this company is its amazing support system. You can contact support for any inquiries, and they will handle them as soon as possible.
Make | ATOTO |
Model | A6 |
Head unit size | Double-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 1024×600 |
Screen type | Capacitive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Android Auto |
Inputs | SD cards, USB, Bluetooth |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Not supported |
Price | $219 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.3 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 4,417 |
Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX
Tired of having to plug in your phone every time you get in the car? Then the Pioneer AVH-W4500NEX is here to save the day. The wireless connection this model offers is amazing with zero lag affecting the user experience.
This unit also has a lot of features. Make sure you need most of them, however, because you will have to pay a good amount of money for them.
From digital Apple CarPlay, HD radio, standard FM/AM radio, and DVD/CD players, the unit has it all. It also features camera input for the dashcam and the backup cam, as well.
Make | Pioneer |
Model | AVH-W4500NEX |
Head unit size | Double-DIN auto head unit |
Screen size | 7 inches |
Screen resolution | 2520×480 |
Screen type | Resistive touch screen |
Smartphone integration | Wired and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay |
Inputs | HDMI, 2 USBs, 2 RCAs, 2 camera, Bluetooth |
HD radio | Supported |
Satellite radio | Supported |
Optical drive | Supported |
Price | $695 |
Link to buy on Amazon | |
Star rating on Amazon | 4.5 out of 5 |
Total number of reviews on Amazon | 327 |
Final Thoughts
That ends today’s discussion on the 10 best Android head units. The list we have for you has something for every budget and need.
So, make sure to get the one you need and stay tuned for more updates.