Most modern cars now are equipped with a complete built-in infotainment system for better riding experience. New auto head units support Bluetooth for hands-free calling, audio music playing, GPS navigation, easy touchscreens, and many other features. The good news is you don’t need to spend big bucks to buy a new vehicle. Aftermarket auto head unit can be purchased and installed to get you one step ahead. Aside from its great features, it also adds up to the beauty and style of your car’s interior. I own a car with the stock audio head unit and later decided to have an aftermarket Android head unit installed. Getting an Android head unit is an ideal thing to do to achieve the same infotainment system and the functionalities as newer cars have. Due to a lot of aftermarket auto head units available today, choosing the right one might be a little challenging for some. Different versions and compatibility are some of the main deciding factors to consider when buying a car stereo. This post narrows down your search for the Best Android Auto Head Unit. Below is the detailed information for your review and get you closer to the new enjoyable riding experience.
Best Android Auto Head Units
Android Auto Head Units – Ride with Pride
1. Sony XAV-AX5000 Android Auto Head Unit
Sony is a renowned brand when it comes to stereo sound quality. They now came up with this double din radio that can sit perfectly in your center console. We love the sleek design and the functionality that comes along with it. The simple hardware buttons are in the perfect place as well for easy access while you are driving. The 6.95” screen size gives a perfect visibility when using this for navigation. The reverse camera input can help you to have rear visibility while parking as this is a back-up camera ready. With the dual USB ports, you can plug in your storage device to access your music library. The manufacturer claims that you can achieve a clear sound even at high volumes with the built-in 4×55 amplifier. This unit offers versatility as it supports Android Auto and Apple devices. You can make a hands-free calling and enjoy listening to your playlist via Bluetooth wireless connectivity. This makes every travel convenient, safe, and entertaining.
Features and Specifications:
Sleek designSupports Android Auto and Apple Car Play2 USB ports to connect devicesBluetooth connectivityErgonomic hardware keys
2. Pioneer AVH-2400NEX Android Auto Head Unit
Pioneer will not be left behind when we talk about the high technology sound system. This is one of the trusted brands producing exceptional audio quality. Black, simple, and elegant design are some of the characteristics that make this entertainment system a best buy. It offers good value and functionality as we expected. It gives a perfect viewing experience with its 7” LCD touchscreen with 800 x 480WVGA resolution. We like how the hardware keys are designed and placed at the bottom of the screen for easy usage. It is a user-friendly head unit as this device supports both Android Auto and Apple Car Play. It also features Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming for safer driving. With its customizable touchscreen interface, you can have the freedom to set your most frequently used apps.
Features and Specifications:
Simple and elegant designSupports Android Auto and Apple Car Play1 Lithium-ion battery requiredBluetooth connectivityPhysical hardware keys for easy usage
3. Kenwood DMX7704S Android Auto Head Unit
Another established name in the field of sound system technology, Kenwood released the DMX7704S and claimed sound excellency. The company has built its reputation in the in-car entertainment system and this is something that we can take into consideration. We fell in love with its classy design at 6.95” wide VGA color LCD. This offers comfy adjusting with the presence of physical illuminated buttons lined up at the bottom of the screen. This entertainment device comes with complete tuner features. It has a built-in high definition radio for AM/FM tuning and is also Sirius XM ready. This head unit also compatible with both Android Auto and Apple Car Play just like any other brand. You will be good to go for some audio listening entertainment with pre-installed Spotify and Pandora. The head unit is equipped with 2 RCA video input and ready for front and a rearview camera installation.
Features and Specifications:
Simple and yet classy designWork with Android Auto and Apple Car PlayBuilt-in HD radioVariable keys illumination for comfy adjusting
4. Alpine iLX-W650 Android Auto Head Unit
Alpine is one of the well-known brands in producing a high-quality sound system. The simplicity of the design makes it more attractive and easier to navigate. On the other hand, its simple and compact design doesn’t compromise its performance. The compatibility will not be an issue because it is designed to work with both Android Auto and Apple Car Play. The 7” capacitive touch screen will give you clear and full visibility while navigating this unit. It is also reverse cam ready with provision of two camera inputs. The built-in amplifier adds up to achieve a maximum sound performance. The Bluetooth connectivity gives you hands-free control and lets you access to installed applications by just using your voice. It has USB ports to plug in your devices and access some files that you want to open. You can also add some additional functions but you need to buy some Alpine accessories.
Features and Specifications:
Simple and compact designAndroid Auto and Apple Car Play compatibilityTouchscreen swipe controlBluetooth connectivity
5. Boss Audio BVCP9685A Android Auto Head Unit
Boss is another big name in the field of audio sound system. To get the convenience of having your smartphone’s features while driving, they have created this Android head unit. The unit is made to work with Android Auto and Apple Car Play. It has a 2-din car stereo with a 6.75” touchscreen monitor. We like the way the keys lined up vertically at the left side of the monitor to make it unique and easily accessible. You can take calls hands-free without compromising safety. You can have full control of your music app and browse your playlist with Bluetooth technology. Another safety feature of this device is the automatic sound volume reduction. It lowers the volume down while on a reverse to make sure that you focus and see your rear surroundings while parking. The presence of USB ports gives you access to more of your song choices. Its AM/FM car radio and MP3 compatibility add up to the unit’s characteristics.
Features and Specifications:
Black and elegant designCompatible with Android Auto and Apple Car PlayBluetooth connectivityUSB ports for more music choicesAutomatic volume reduction on reverse
Do Your Homework
Get as much information as you can before installing an aftermarket Android Auto head unit. Whether you are after the safety features or just simply want to upgrade your car’s entertainment system, make sure that you are making the right choice. Doing some research or reading some reviews play a big role in the selection process. If you know someone who installed an aftermarket Android Auto head unit, it doesn’t hurt to ask. Sticking to the budget is a must to avoid overspending. Whatever overspent amount can be used maybe for some other upgrade or car maintenance. Always think of the compatibility to avoid buying the wrong item. When in doubt, you may want to ask the seller first for full information to avoid the hassle of sending back the item.
Feel the Joy Ride
There is nothing wrong with your basic audio head unit inserted in your car dash. But upgrading into an Android auto head unit can give a pleasurable driving experience. It will give you more versatility when listening to music, getting help for directions, and cruising with style. Adding this Android auto head unit gives both the driver and passengers a different kind of joy ride. These are our top choices that you can go for. These Android Auto head units were created not only for pure entertainment but also for convenience and safety. Remember that you are the one who has the final decision. Remember that these are some of our personal choices just to guide and help you in your selection process. What kind of Android auto head unit do you have? Do you have any other suggestions? Feel free to comment below so we can help readers decide and find the best Android auto head unit.
