Upgrading your car’s audio and infotainment system doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. Modern double din head units bring a wealth of features once reserved for luxury vehicles into the affordable category, offering seamless smartphone integration, crystal-clear displays, and powerful sound. Whether your priority is wireless Apple CarPlay for effortless navigation and music or a high-powered amplifier for your speakers, there’s a budget-friendly option that fits the bill.
This roundup focuses on units that deliver exceptional value, combining essential modern conveniences with reliable performance. We’ve compiled a list of the best affordable double din head units to help you find the perfect match for your vehicle and your needs, making your daily commute or road trip a more connected and enjoyable experience.
Top Affordable Double Din Head Units
- PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio Screen
- KENWOOD DMX115BT Double Din Car Stereo, 6.8″ Touchscreen Display
- SJoyBring 7″ QLED Double Din Car Stereo – Wireless Apple CarPlay
- Kenwood DDX419 In-Dash Head Unit Car Stereo
- NOCO GENIUS1: 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger
- JVC KW-M560BT Apple CarPlay Android Auto Multimedia Player
- Sony XAV-AX3200 Car Stereo Safe Driver’s Bundle
- Pioneer DMH-1770NEX 6.8″ Multimedia DVD Receiver
- BOSS Audio Systems BE10ACP 10.1″ Car Stereo
PLZ 7″ Wireless Double Din Car Stereo Apple Carplay Radio Screen
This PLZ head unit is designed for a truly wireless experience, featuring both wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It connects to your phone automatically as soon as you start the car, giving you instant access to navigation, music, and voice assistants without ever taking your phone out of your pocket. The powerful smart chip ensures a fast connection with minimal delay, making interactions smooth and responsive.
Audio quality is a strong point, thanks to a built-in DSP and a 4.2-channel preamplifier with a maximum 240W output. It includes two subwoofer outputs for adding powerful bass and a 10-band equalizer for fine-tuning your sound. For clear communication, it uses an independent Bluetooth 5.3 module with an extra antenna to reduce static and improve call clarity, and it features a large heat sink to maintain performance during long drives.
KENWOOD DMX115BT Double Din Car Stereo
Kenwood’s DMX115BT offers a practical and user-friendly approach to in-car connectivity with its dual Bluetooth pairing feature. This allows you to connect two smartphones simultaneously, making it easy to switch between a personal and a work phone for calls and music streaming. The 6.8″ touchscreen provides a clear interface for controlling all your media sources.
For the audio enthusiast, this unit provides robust customization tools. The 13-band graphic equalizer and built-in digital time alignment let you adjust the soundstage to match your vehicle’s acoustics and your personal preferences. It supports a wide range of audio files, including high-resolution FLAC, and offers comprehensive connectivity with 5-channel preamp outputs for expanding your system with external amplifiers.
SJoyBring 7″ QLED Double Din Car Stereo
Standout visual quality is the hallmark of the SJoyBring stereo, which features a 7-inch QLED display with a 1280×720 resolution. This screen delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, making maps and media content look exceptionally clear. Like other modern units, it supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for cable-free smartphone integration.
The audio system is built to impress with a 4.2-channel surround sound setup that includes dual subwoofer outputs. It is engineered with high-performance components to provide rich, balanced, and distortion-free audio even at high volumes. Whether you are an audiophile or just appreciate good sound, this unit offers a concert-like experience on the road.
Kenwood DDX419 In-Dash Head Unit Car Stereo
The Kenwood DDX419 is a reliable and feature-packed option that includes a DVD/CD player, which is becoming less common in newer models. Its 6.1″ touchscreen interface provides control over its various functions, including the built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
This unit also offers integration with popular apps like Pandora when used with an iPhone, and its App Mode allows for limited control of other smartphone applications. With 22 watts RMS per channel, it provides solid power for your speakers directly from the head unit, making it a comprehensive multimedia solution.
NOCO GENIUS1: 1A 6V/12V Smart Battery Charger
While not a head unit, the NOCO GENIUS1 is an essential tool for any car owner. This compact yet powerful battery charger and maintainer is designed to keep your vehicle’s battery in optimal condition. It works with a wide range of 6V and 12V lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, making it incredibly versatile.
Its smart charging technology includes an integrated thermal sensor that adjusts the charge based on the ambient temperature. This prevents overcharging in summer and undercharging in winter, ensuring your battery is always ready to go. It also functions as a desulfator, which can help extend the overall life of your battery.
JVC KW-M560BT Apple CarPlay Android Auto Multimedia Player
JVC’s KW-M560BT is a fully-featured multimedia receiver that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, connecting you to your smartphone’s world safely and easily. The 6.75″ capacitive touchscreen is responsive and clear, and the built-in Bluetooth allows for dual phone connection. A significant benefit is the USB port’s 1.5A charging capability, which rapidly powers up your devices.
This model is a great choice for those who want advanced audio control without a disc player. It comes with a 13-band equalizer, digital time alignment, and detailed subwoofer controls for crossover and phase. This level of adjustment allows you to create a perfectly tuned sound system tailored to your listening preferences.
Sony XAV-AX3200 Car Stereo Safe Driver’s Bundle
Sony is known for its quality, and the XAV-AX3200 bundle brings that reputation to an affordable package. This receiver includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrating your phone’s key functions into the 6.95″ screen. The bundle also comes with a backup camera, significantly enhancing safety and convenience when reversing.
The user interface is designed with a focus on simplicity and ease of use, allowing for quick access to features while minimizing distraction. As a Sony product, you can expect reliable Bluetooth for hands-free calls and music streaming, along with the clear, dynamic sound quality the brand is known for.
Pioneer DMH-1770NEX 6.8″ Multimedia DVD Receiver
The Pioneer DMH-1770NEX is a versatile unit that combines modern smartphone connectivity with traditional media playback. It features a 6.8″ touchscreen and supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. The inclusion of a DVD player allows you to enjoy video content, a feature not found on many newer media-only receivers.
Pioneer is a trusted name in car audio, and this model lives up to that legacy with robust build quality and intuitive controls. It provides a solid foundation for your car’s audio system, with preamp outputs for expanding your setup with external amplifiers and speakers for a more powerful sound.
BOSS Audio Systems BE10ACP 10.1″ Car Stereo
For those who want a massive screen without a massive price, the BOSS Audio BE10ACP delivers with its impressive 10.1-inch display. This large touchscreen makes everything from navigation to album art more visible and easier to interact with. It comes equipped with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing full smartphone integration.
The large footprint of this unit makes a bold statement on your dashboard while offering all the essential features of a modern head unit. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximize the visual impact of their car’s interior with a contemporary and feature-rich centerpiece.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an Affordable Double Din Head Unit
So, you’re thinking about upgrading your car’s stereo. A new double din head unit is one of the best ways to modernize an older vehicle, bringing it into the 21st century with features you actually use. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one without breaking the bank? I’ve installed a bunch of these, and here’s what I focus on when looking for the best affordable double din head units for modern vehicles.
First, let’s talk about the screen. Resistive touchscreens are the old technology; they’re pressure-sensitive and can feel a bit sluggish. Capacitive screens, like the one on your smartphone, are much more responsive and look sharper. If you can find a unit with a capacitive touchscreen in your budget, it’s a huge win for daily usability. Also, check the screen resolution. A higher resolution means your backup camera feed and any navigation maps will look much clearer.
Connectivity is king. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are non-negotiable for me. They project your phone’s apps onto the head unit’s display, giving you safe access to navigation, music, and messaging. Make sure the unit you choose has a reliable and fast connection, preferably wireless if your budget allows, but a wired connection is still perfectly functional. Don’t forget about good old-fashioned Bluetooth for quick audio streaming and hands-free calls.
Sound quality might not be your top priority, but it’s important. Look at the preamp outputs. If you think you might add an amplifier and better speakers down the line, you’ll want a head unit with at least three sets of preamp outputs (front, rear, and subwoofer). The voltage on these outputs matters too; a higher voltage (like 4V or 5V) means a cleaner signal sent to your amp, resulting in less noise and better sound.
Finally, think about physical compatibility and extras. You’ll need a dash kit to make the new unit fit your car’s dashboard, and a wiring harness to connect it without cutting your factory wires. These are usually sold separately. Also, a built-in backup camera input is a fantastic safety feature that’s pretty much standard now. Some units even offer HD Radio for better sound quality from free broadcast radio. By weighing these features against your budget, you can find a fantastic unit that feels anything but cheap.
FAQ
What is the main difference between a single din and a double din head unit?
The difference is purely physical size. A single din unit is about 2 inches tall, while a double din unit is twice that height, at about 4 inches tall. This larger size allows for a much bigger, more usable touchscreen display. For a modern look and feel with integrated features like Apple CarPlay, a double din is almost always the way to go. Most modern car dashboards are designed to accommodate this larger size.
Do I need any special parts to install a new double din head unit in my car?
Yes, you most likely will. Besides the head unit itself, you’ll typically need two key items. First is a vehicle-specific wiring harness. This plugs into your car’s existing wiring and allows you to connect the new head unit without cutting any factory wires. Second is a dash installation kit. This is a plastic frame that fills the space around the new unit in your dashboard, making it look like a factory installation. It’s a good idea to search for a kit made specifically for your car’s make, model, and year.
Is it difficult to install one of these myself?
It depends on your comfort level with basic tools and following instructions. For many cars, it’s a straightforward process of removing the old radio, connecting the new wiring harness with wire crimps or solder, and mounting the new unit with the dash kit. However, some vehicles have complex dashboards or require special tools for removal. If you’re not confident, having a professional handle the installation is a wise investment to avoid potential damage.
Can I add a backup camera to any double din head unit?
Virtually all modern double din head units have a dedicated input for a backup camera. So, while the camera itself is usually sold separately, the head unit is ready for it. When you put the car in reverse, the screen will automatically display the video feed from the camera. This is one of the most valuable features you can add for both convenience and safety.
What does “preamp output” mean and why is it important?
Preamp outputs are RCA jacks on the back of the head unit that send a clean, unamplified audio signal to an external amplifier. This is crucial if you plan on upgrading your car’s sound system with a more powerful amp and better speakers. The signal from a preamp output is much higher quality than the signal sent to the factory speakers. More preamp outputs (e.g., front, rear, and sub) give you more control over your sound system.
Are the cheaper, off-brand head units from online marketplaces any good?
This is a bit of a gamble. While you might find a unit with an impressive list of features for a very low price, they often come with significant drawbacks. The software can be buggy, slow, and rarely receives updates. The touchscreen might be unresponsive, and the sound quality is often poor. For a reliable daily driver, I strongly suggest sticking with established brands known for their quality and customer support, even if it means spending a little more. You are often better off with a base model from a good brand than a top-spec model from an unknown one.